Do you want to look your best in a photoshoot? While the photographer is responsible for taking great pictures, the subject has an equally important role. Choosing what kind of clothing and accessories to wear matters if you want to nail that picture-perfect look. However, knowing exactly what to wear for a photoshoot can be tricky — especially when fashion trends are continuously changing.
When deciding what to wear for a photoshoot, keep in mind the occasion and style of the shoot. For formal occasions or glamorous photoshoots, consider wearing items such as gowns, tuxedos, and dressy accessories.
Also, be aware of color palettes — bright colors tend to pop against darker backgrounds while pastels can appear washed out [1].
Lastly, when it comes to accessorizing your outfit, keep it minimal and add pieces that complement your overall look.
In this blog post, we’ll explore some key tips and tricks on how you can confidently put together (and rock!) the perfect outfit for any occasion.
Things To Consider When Choosing Clothes For Your Photoshoot
Start with the Basics
Before you start planning your outfit, it’s important to understand the basics of what makes a good outfit for a photoshoot.
Here are some key things to keep in mind:
- Comfort: You’ll be moving around a lot during your photoshoot, so it’s important to wear something that you’re comfortable in;
- Fit: Make sure your clothes fit well and flatter your body shape. Avoid anything too baggy or too tight;
- Colors: Stick to colors that complement your skin tone and hair color. Avoid anything too bright or neon, as it can be distracting in photos;
- Texture: Consider incorporating textures like lace, denim, or silk into your outfit to add visual interest;
- Layers: Layering can add depth and dimension to your outfit, so consider adding a jacket, scarf, or cardigan to your look [2];
Consider the Location and Style of the Photoshoot
The location and style of your photoshoot will have a big impact on what you should wear. For example, if you’re having an outdoor photoshoot in the fall, you might want to wear a cozy sweater and boots. If you’re having a beach photoshoot in the summer, you might want to wear a flowy sundress and sandals.
It’s also important to consider the style of the photoshoot. Is it a casual, laid-back shoot or a formal, elegant one? Your outfit should reflect the vibe of the shoot.
Choose Clothes That Make You Feel Confident
The most important thing when choosing an outfit for a photoshoot is to choose something that makes you feel confident and comfortable. If you’re not comfortable with your outfit, it will show in the photos.
Take some time to think about what outfits you feel you are best in. Maybe you love the way you look in a certain color or style. Or maybe you feel most confident when you’re wearing your favorite pair of jeans. Whatever it is, choose an outfit that makes you feel like the best version of yourself.
Avoid Logos and Busy Patterns
Logos and busy patterns can be distracting in photos, so it’s best to avoid them. Stick to solid colors or subtle patterns like stripes or polka dots. If you do want to wear a patterned outfit, make sure it’s not too busy or overwhelming. For example, a subtle floral print can be a nice touch.
Don’t Be Afraid to Accessorize
Accessories can add a lot to your outfit and can help you stand out in photos. Consider adding a statement necklace, a pair of earrings, or a scarf to your outfit. Just be careful not to go overboard with accessories. You don’t want them to be the main focus of the photos.
Pick A Specific Theme
To choose the perfect outfit for your photoshoot, it’s important to have a specific theme in mind. Whether it’s a romantic, vintage, or modern look you’re going for, having a clear vision will help you make the right clothing and accessory choices.
Consider The Location
The location of your photoshoot can also have an impact on what you should wear. For example, if you’re taking photos on a beach, a flowy dress or skirt can look stunning. If you’re taking photos in an urban environment, a more edgy and casual outfit might be more appropriate.
Don’t Forget The Time Of the Year
The time of year can also affect your outfit choice. If it’s summer, you’ll want to wear light and airy clothing, while in the winter, a coat or sweater might be necessary. You’ll want to choose colors and fabrics that are seasonally appropriate.
Consider Your Style
Your personal style is also important to consider when choosing an outfit for a photoshoot. You want to feel comfortable and confident in what you’re wearing, and it should be a reflection of who you are. It’s always a good idea to add some personal flair to your outfit, whether it’s a favorite accessory or a unique piece of clothing.
Stylish Photoshoot Outfits You May Try On
The Street Style For An Urban Portrait
For an urban portrait, you can’t go wrong with a chic, casual outfit. Try a leather jacket, skinny jeans, and a pair of statement boots [3].
Bet On A Timeless Feel
If you’re going for a timeless look, a classic outfit can do the trick. A knee-length dress in a solid color, paired with simple jewelry and nude heels, can look stunning.
Jeans And T-Shirt For A Casual Look
For a more casual photoshoot, a classic jeans and t-shirt combo can work well. To make it more interesting, try a graphic t-shirt or a pair of distressed jeans.
Coordinate Colors For Family Photo Outfits
For a family photoshoot, coordinating colors can add a nice touch. Try sticking to a color scheme, like all pastels or all earthy tones, to make everyone look cohesive.
A Flowy Dress For A Spring Outdoor Photo Session
For a spring outdoor photoshoot, a flowy dress in a soft color can look beautiful. Add a pair of simple sandals and minimal jewelry for a fresh and effortless look.
Vintage Is The Watchword
For a vintage-inspired photoshoot, try a flowy, bohemian dress with a retro pattern. Add a pair of cat-eye sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat for an extra touch of nostalgia.
Use Contrasting Colors
If you want to make a statement in your photos, try pairing contrasting colors together. For example, a bright pink skirt with a bright yellow top can make for a bold and eye-catching look.
Use Flattering Necklines
Choosing a flattering neckline can make all the difference in your photos. V-necklines can elongate the neck and create a flattering silhouette, while off-the-shoulder styles can show off your collarbone and shoulders.
Be Bold And Wear A Printed Dress
A printed dress can be a great choice for a photoshoot, especially if you’re going for a more playful and fun look. Try a dress with a floral or geometric pattern, and pair it with simple, neutral-colored accessories.
Make It All About The Shoes
If you want to make a statement in your photos, consider making your shoes the focal point of your outfit. Try a pair of bold, colorful heels or sneakers to add some personality to your photos.
Earthy Colors For Family Photo Outfits
If you’re going for a natural, outdoorsy look for your family photos, try choosing earthy tones for your outfits. Olive green, brown, and mustard yellow can all look great in a nature-inspired setting.
Go Monochrome
For a more minimalist look, try dressing in a monochromatic outfit. Choose one color and wear different shades of it for a cohesive and stylish look.
Pastel Colors For A Baby Photoshoot
For a baby photoshoot, pastel colors can be a great choice. Try a soft pink or blue outfit for a sweet and innocent look.
Rock Winter Outfits
For a winter photoshoot, you can still look stylish and warm. Try a chunky sweater paired with skinny jeans and boots for a cozy and fashionable outfit [4].
Solid Colors On A Busy Background
If you’re taking photos in a busy or colorful setting, like a city street, try wearing solid colors to make yourself stand out. A bright red dress or a bold yellow coat can pop against a busy backdrop.
Tips On What To Wear For Any Photoshoot
Highlight Your Best Asset
Think about your best physical feature and choose an outfit that will accentuate it. If you have great legs, try a skirt or dress that shows them off. If you have beautiful eyes, choose a color that will make them stand out.
Choose Your Color Palette First
Start by choosing a color palette for your photoshoot, and then choose clothing and accessories that fit within that color scheme. This will help your photos look cohesive and well put together.
Don’t Forget About The Shoes
Your shoes can be just as important as your outfit. Make sure you choose a pair of shoes that not only look good but that you can walk in comfortably for the duration of the photoshoot.
Look For Complementary Colors
When choosing your outfit, think about the colors that complement each other. For example, blue and orange, or pink and green, can create a harmonious and pleasing effect.
Keep It Simple And Comfy
You want to be able to move around and be comfortable during your photoshoot, so keep your outfit simple and comfortable.
Skip The Logos
Avoid wearing clothing with logos or brand names, as they can be distracting in your photos. You want the focus to be on you, not on the clothing you’re wearing.
Choose Neutral Clothing
Neutral-colored clothing, like black, white, and beige, can be a great choice for a photoshoot. These colors are timeless and versatile, and they won’t clash with the colors in the background of your photos.
Opt For Monochromatic
Choosing one color and wearing different shades of it can create a cohesive and stylish look. This is a great option if you’re unsure of what colors to wear, or if you want a more minimalist look.
Use Muted Colors
If you’re taking photos in a natural setting, like a park or a beach, try choosing muted colors for your outfit. This will create a soft and romantic look that complements the natural surroundings.
Fit Your Style To Your Location
The location of your photoshoot can have a big impact on what you wear. If you’re shooting in an urban setting, you might want to go for a more edgy, street-style look. If you’re shooting in a natural setting, like a park or beach, you might want to choose something more flowy and romantic.
Dress Up
Even if you’re not shooting a formal portrait, it’s a good idea to dress up a little for a photoshoot. This doesn’t necessarily mean wearing a suit or a cocktail dress, but it does mean choosing clothes that are a step above your everyday attire. This will help you look and feel your best in the photos.
Coordinate Patterns and Colors
When choosing your outfit, it’s important to consider the colors and patterns you’ll be wearing. You don’t want to clash with the other people in the photos, so coordinating your colors and patterns with the rest of the group is important. This doesn’t mean everyone has to wear the same color, but choosing complementary colors or patterns can help create a cohesive look.
Pick a Statement Piece
Choosing a statement piece, like a bold necklace or a colorful scarf, can add some interest and personality to your outfit. This can be a great way to show off your style and make your photos more unique.
Mix Solids and Patterns
Mixing solids and patterns can create a visually interesting look, but it’s important to do it carefully. You don’t want to go overboard with too many patterns, but mixing one or two patterned pieces with solid colors can create a great balance.
Minimize Patterns
While mixing patterns can be a good idea, it’s generally best to avoid wearing too many patterns at once. Busy patterns can be distracting and take away from the overall look of the photo.
Opt for Timeless Over Trendy
When choosing your outfit, it’s important to think about the long term. While a trendy outfit might look great now, it might not age well and could look outdated in a few years. Opting for a timeless look can help ensure that your photos look great for years to come.
Let Hair Move
If you’re shooting outdoors, letting your hair move naturally in the breeze can add a sense of movement and energy to your photos. This can be a great way to add some interest to your photos and create a more dynamic look.
Hire a Professional Stylist to Help
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure about what to wear for your photoshoot, consider hiring a professional stylist to help. They can provide valuable advice on what to wear and how to coordinate your outfit with the rest of the group.
What Not to Wear to a Photoshoot?
When choosing your outfit for a photoshoot, there are a few things you should avoid [5]:
Fabrics to Avoid
- Shiny or reflective fabrics can create glare in the photos and make you look shiny;
- Thin, clingy fabrics can emphasize any areas you’re self-conscious about;
- Clothes that wrinkle easily can create unflattering lines in the photos;
Colors to Avoid
- Avoid wearing colors that clash with your skin tone, like bright oranges or yellows;
- It’s generally best to avoid wearing all white or all black, as these colors can be difficult to photograph;
How to Choose Accessories and Props?
Accessories and props can add an extra touch of personality and style to your photoshoot.
Here are some tips on how to choose the right accessories and props for your shoot:
- Keep it simple: Don’t overdo it with accessories and props. Choose a few statement pieces that will complement your outfit and enhance the overall look of your photos;
- Consider the theme and location: Your accessories and props should match the theme and location of your photoshoot. For example, if you’re doing a beach photoshoot, a sun hat, sunglasses, and a beach towel would be appropriate;
- Avoid props that distract from you: Remember, the focus should be on you, not the props. Don’t choose props that are too big or too distracting;
- Coordinate colors: Your accessories and props should complement your outfit and not clash with it. Choose colors that coordinate well with your clothing;
- Keep it meaningful: Choose accessories and props that have a special meaning to you. For example, if you’re a musician, bring your guitar or some sheet music to incorporate into your photos [6];
FAQ
What is the best color to wear for a photoshoot?
The best color to wear for a photoshoot depends on the theme and setting of the shoot. Neutral colors like white, black, and gray are always a safe choice. However, if you want to add some color to your photos, opt for shades that complement your skin tone and the location of the shoot.
How do I style myself for a photoshoot?
To style yourself for a photoshoot, choose an outfit that makes you feel comfortable and confident. Consider the theme, location, and time of the year, and select clothing that complements the colors and mood of the shoot. Pay attention to details such as accessories, hairstyles, and makeup to complete your look.
What do you wear to a portrait photoshoot?
For a portrait photoshoot, wear an outfit that highlights your best features and complements your skin tone. Solid colors are a great option and try to avoid busy patterns or logos that may distract from the main focus of the photo. It’s also essential to choose clothing that flatters your body type and makes you feel comfortable.
Do you wear shoes in a photoshoot?
Yes, you should wear shoes in a photoshoot unless you are going for a specific barefoot or sandal look. Shoes can add an extra element of style and interest to your photos, so choose footwear that complements your outfit and is appropriate for the location.
What color makes you look thinner on camera?
Wearing darker colors such as black, navy, or dark green can help create a slimming effect in photos. However, the most important thing is to wear clothing that fits well and flatters your body type.
Should I wear makeup for a photoshoot?
Yes, wearing makeup for a photoshoot can help enhance your features and create a polished and put-together look. However, it’s essential to choose the makeup that complements your skin tone and is appropriate for the shoot’s theme and setting.
Is it ok to wear black for a photo shoot?
Yes, it is ok to wear black for a photo shoot. Black is a classic and versatile color that can work well in a variety of settings and themes. However, it’s important to pay attention to the lighting and background of the shoot, as black clothing may blend into darker or busier backgrounds.
What is the safest color to wear?
The safest color to wear for a photoshoot is a neutral color such as white, black, or gray. These colors are timeless and versatile and can work well in a variety of settings and themes. However, don’t be afraid to add some pops of color to your outfit to create interest and personality.
How do I prepare my hair for a photoshoot?
To prepare your hair for a photoshoot, make sure it is clean and styled according to the theme and setting of the shoot. Avoid trying any new hairstyles or hair products on the day of the shoot and opt for a style that you know works well for your hair type.
Should you wear jewelry to a photoshoot?
Yes, wearing jewelry to a photoshoot can add some extra interest and personality to your photos. However, it’s important to choose pieces that complement your outfit and the theme of the shoot. Avoid wearing any distracting or bulky jewelry that may take away from the main focus of the photo.
What type of face is photogenic?
However, it’s important to remember that beauty is subjective, and everyone has unique features that make them attractive and photogenic.
How can I smile naturally in pictures?
To smile naturally in pictures, try to relax and feel comfortable in front of the camera. Think happy thoughts or remember a funny moment.
What makes a photo eye-catching?
A few factors can make a photo eye-catching:
- The first is composition, which refers to how the elements of the photo are arranged;
- A well-composed photo will have a clear focal point and a balanced arrangement of other elements;
- Another factor is color. A photo with vibrant, contrasting colors can be very striking, while a more muted color scheme can give a photo a more understated, elegant feel;
- Lighting is also important, as it can create depth and drama in a photo;
Should you smile with your teeth in photos?
This is a matter of personal preference, but generally, a natural-looking smile is the best choice for a photo. If you feel self-conscious about your teeth, you can try practicing your smile in front of a mirror beforehand to find the most flattering angle.
Which clothes make you look older?
Clothes that are too tight or too loose can make you look older than you are. In general, it’s best to choose clothes that fit well and flatter your body type. Wearing clothes that are outdated or overly trendy can also make you look older, so it’s a good idea to choose classic, timeless pieces.
Useful Video: 5 Essential Outfits for a Photoshoot
Final thoughts
Choosing what to wear for a photoshoot can be a fun and creative process, but it can also be a little daunting. By following the tips and guidelines outlined in this post, you can ensure that you look and feel your best on the day of the shoot.
Remember to consider the theme, location, and time of year, and choose clothes that make you feel comfortable and confident.
And don’t be afraid to ask for help from a professional stylist or photographer if you need it. With a little planning and preparation, you can create photos that you’ll be proud to display for years to come.
References
- https://www.myclickmagazine.com/what-wear-photo-session/
- https://carrieallen.com/what-to-wear-to-a-photoshoot/
- https://digital-photography-school.com/what-to-wear-for-a-photo-shoot/
- https://fine-photography.com.au/blog/how-to-dress-for-a-photoshoot/
- https://shotkit.com/photoshoot-outfits/
- https://www.postproductions.com/clothing-guide-what-to-wear-photo-session