Photoshoot Clothing Tips From a Waikato Photographer
So you have booked you photo session, you’re excited, you’re thinking about everything you have to do to prepare for your photos. Cue the overwhelming feeling of coming up with what to wear. This struggle can quickly take the excitement out of the lead up to your photo session but don’t worry you are totally not alone. This is literally the most asked question by my couples and families. Have no fear though, your girl Ains is here and I got you!
Over my many years of portrait photography in both the Illawarra region of Australia & the Waikato Region of New Zealand, I have learnt over time what looks good in front of the camera. The main thing I want you to remember is that we want you to feel and look like you, so keep this in mind when putting together/shopping for your outfits. The main focus of the photos should be you and your connection with your loved ones, your clothing should just be there to compliment you.
With that said, here are my top tips for choosing your photoshoot clothing.
For more tips on portrait photo sessions, contact me for my Ultimate Photoshoot Guide.
Pick your outfit
ahead of time
Ensure you lock in your outfit/s at least a week in advance from your shoot. This will give you clarity on what you will look and feel like on the day and also avoid stress on the lead up.
Set out your clothing, shoes, accessories, underwear and all. Try it on and make sure it works together because you don’t want to be scrambling the hour before your photo session.
Choose your clothing carefully
My photo sessions are full of adventure, so choosing clothing you know you can be comfortable in without having to adjust every 30 seconds is key! Choose clothing you can sit, lay down, walk, run, dance, twirl and climb in.
Also bring comfy footwear. Its totally cool if you want to wear less practical shoes or go bare foot but bring a pair of shoes you can walk in, to the shoot.
Dress for the location
It is always a good idea to keep in mind the location of the shoot. Firstly because you want to choose colours and outfits that don’t blend in too much with your surroundings, you want something that separates you from the background. Secondly, you also want to dress for the conditions, if you’re shooting on the beach in the middle of summer maybe consider your togs and something summery to go over the top. If your session is on a Mountaintop in the middle of autumn, it may be best to opt for something a little more warm and cosy.
Clothing Ideas
Ladies
Dresses, playsuits, jumpsuits, jeans & a cute shirt!
You can even accessorise with jackets and hats.
Men
Plain tees, collared shirts, jeans, dress shorts and dress pants
are always good options.
Remember to always choose clothing that compliments your partner.
Clothing to avoid
– Uncomfortable clothing
– Restrictive clothing
– Matching outfits
– Clothing with logos or writing
– Fluorescent clothing
– Crazy patterned clothing
– Sports Jerseys
– Running shoes
– Tracksuits
We want your clothing to compliment you in the photos, not be the main focal point.
Coordinate instead of
matching your clothing
We have all seen those awkward family photos where each family member are sporting the classic matching white tee and denim jeans. We don’t want this haha! Instead of matching think of coordinating. Stick to a colour scheme. Pick 2 – 4 colours and play around with different tones and textures. Neutrals are always an awesome option. Choose classic timeless clothing rather than something that’s trending.