Dressing yourself in the morning is hard enough when you don't have to stand in front of a camera and be your best self. Choosing what to wear for a photo shoot can trigger even the most confident, fashun-ey fashionista to pull their entire wardrobe out onto the floor.
So... that's why I've put together this little 10 step guide for you.
Long flowy dresses
Being comfortable in what you are wearing is really important. I find loose flowy long dresses the best for sessions. Not only do they compliment all body types, but you don't need to stand there making sure your knickers are not showing out the back, your spandex are not showing or that you don't feel self conscious every single time you look at your photos because your tight dress shows everything.
Color Scheming
Aim for neutral, earthy tones, and metallic. These colors compliment the outdoor environment almost anywhere you go and look dam fine as a printed, framed photograph. Avoid anything that is bright, fluro or neon.
Complimentary Good! Matching Bad.
You don't want to create the illusion of being your partner's Siamese twin. When multiple people wear that same color, sometimes their matching outfits blend together so much that you can't really see any of them properly. The viewer can't tell where one person begins and another ends! Think of the color wheel from your 6th grade art class. Complimentary colors are ones that look incredible together. They're salt & pepper and Bonnie & Clyde. Complimentary colors sit across from each other on the wheel.
Patterns & Prints
Avoid large bold patterns as they often dominate the photograph and detract attention from your beautiful face. Subtle smaller patterns work well, but less is definitely more. Try to limit yourself to one pattern at a time. Matching patterns is a tricky task, and it's super difficult to do as well. But, if you're able to achieve it, they make some stunning photos. Take a look online and see what pattern option you can find. Floral dresses work well when everyone else is wearing non patterned clothes. Be careful with strips as they can sometimes make you look bigger and rounder than what you are.
Layer Up!
Wearing layers is great form (and function). Not only does combining layers and texture create more visually interesting photographs. Think jackets, cardigans, hats, scarves, tights and headbands.
Match outfits with location
Plan your outfits around what you know about the location we will be shooting at. Don't wear a little sundress to a shoot in the snow. If shooting in a cooler season, consider rugging up, dresses can still be worn locally but maybe consider bringing a blanket to wrap around for a little warmth.
Logos
Much like crazy patterns, clothing with writing or logos tends to be a bit distracting. We're not getting paid for the Adidas' not-so-subtle product placement. However, if the logo is tasteful and in theme with the shoot, I'm all for it.
Accessorizing
Hats, sunglasses, socks and jackets are a great way to jazz up your accessory game. Don't go overboard, I want to capture you, not all your bling. Watches are a bit of a weird one. These can be a very distracting piece of accessory. I recommend leaving them at home, unless it has sentimental value. Stylish blankets to wrap around yourself and children also make for an awesome accessory and prop.
Props
Props can help accentuate your personality and helps tell a story. Think pets, an instrument, surfboards, umbrellas, motorbikes and even wine or beer.
Makeup & Hair
So this is totally your call, but, if I may.... I would suggest getting your makeup professionally done. Even if it is soft and natural. Photographs can really pull out skin flaws. Photographs can also magnify bright nail polish, chipped manicures and dirty fingernails. Once you see it, you can't un-see it. Treat yourself. Oh, and as for your hair. I'm a huge sucker for the way a wild mane blows in the breeze. It also creates movement. Up-dos are alright, but hair down is the way to go!
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