You might be asking yourself, “What outfit should I wear to my photoshoot with Crysahna?” Well, keep reading to find out!
The Complete Outfit Planning Guide
Planning What Outfit to Wear to Your Photoshoot
I created this guide with you (my clients) in mind. I want to bring digestible information that walks you through the process of what outfit you can wear to your photoshoot with me!
Hear me out… what you wear can make or break your photos!
Seriously.
At the end of the day, I want you to feel like yourself when you look back at your photos. Part of that is wearing what most feel like you! Here are my creative pointers…
You can also check out this link for an online magazine version of this information!
Comfort is Key When Choosing an Outfit to Wear!
Embrace your natural style! I want you to feel confident and relaxed, but clothes that are uncomfortable can really get in the way and ruin the mood.
Wear an Outfit that Makes You Feel Comfortable
In addition to comfort, pick clothes that will help you feel confident in front of the camera. This isn’t the time to try a new style (unless we’re intentionally being artistic in our session).
This goes for shoes as well. Dress for the occasion! As a more adventurous photographer, I typically discourage my clients from wearing heels so they can move around without falling.
When you wear clothes that feel like you, you’re able to move freely and naturally, which can lead to better pictures. You won’t have to worry about constantly adjusting your outfit, which can take away from the experience.
Think Logistically When Choosing an Outfit to Wear!
Weather and location make all the difference in what outfit to wear to a photoshoot…
Imagine this: You have a mountain session booked with me, and it’s June. You’re planning on a sunny and warm day, but much to your surprise when you wake up the morning of your photoshoot, the forecast is cloudy with a chance of SNOW.
You have a few options here.
You could cancel and miss out on a fun and spontaneous day in the mountains with your lover, OR you could switch out the cute sundress for a sweater, fill a thermos full of hot cocoa, and drive to the mountains anyway!
Which sounds like more fun? Hopefully, you’re thinking of option 2—the adventure!
Because this is a very real scenario that can happen in Colorado, it’s important to pick an outfit that makes sense for the location, time of year, etc. This is also why it’s important to have more then one outfit to wear to your session, but more on that later!
If you’re scheduling a home session, it probably wouldn’t make sense to wear a ballgown or dirty hiking boots. Pick an outfit that both tells your story and fits the theme of your photo session.
Have More than one Outfit to Wear
There are a few reasons for picking multiple outfits to wear to a photoshoot…
As I mentioned before, the weather makes a huge difference in what you are going to want to wear to a photoshoot. The weather might change so having a backup set of clothes and/or more layers on hand will be a game-changer! It is easy to change into another outfit option, and it sucks being stuck without warmer/cooler alternatives.
Bringing options leads to flexibility! Having choices gives you the chance to be creative in a beautiful location with multiple stunning spots.
(Ex: your favorite sweater might look amazing on top of a mountain, but in the trees, it might clash with the falls colors)
Outfit options will also give you a more diverse final gallery which is always exciting!
It’s All About Movement When Choosing an Outfit to Wear!
You might think a stiff item of clothing looks stunning when you’re standing in a dressing room trying it on… but in a photo shoot, it probably won’t be very comfortable. Not to mention, it won’t move with your body as you pose. I encourage flowy items as much as possible because of the personality it adds.
Try wearing an outfit that is… Flowy, airy, fun, textured, soft, etc… AVOID: Stiff, crisp, business, starchy, etc…
Guys! This isn’t a tip just for the ladies. Having an outfit that moves is just as important for you. This can be something as simple as a v-neck t-shirt instead of a polo, or a slightly oversized button-up. Just make sure that what you choose moves more freely and catches the wind for the most natural look possible!
Tips for Color When Choosing an Outfit to Wear!
Typically encourage my clients to wear more neutral/earthy tones because they look incredible in nature. Neons don’t typically vibe with an adventurous outdoor theme and look very manufactured/bright/aggressive. They will stand out like a sore thumb and will end up looking out of place in the final photo.
When it comes to color, you do want to stand out from your surroundings but also look like you belong there.
One or two pops of color pair nicely with neutrals. For example, If you do have a pop of color in a piece of clothing, it’s nice to not overcrowd that color with other ones.
If you really have your heart set on a certain outfit or color, let’s chat! I’m not saying neon is an absolute no-go, but it takes extra planning to make sure those colors photograph well.
Tips for Patterns When Choosing an Outfit to Wear!
Patterns can be great in photos! ….but they also have the ability to get too crazy and overpower both the shoot and you incredibly quickly.
If wearing patterned clothing for your photo shoot, pick pieces that complement your skin tone, hair color, and overall style. You can also think about the setting and background of the photo shoot. Choose patterns that will create a striking contrast against a solid-colored wall or natural landscape. Remember that less more! Your outfit should compliment you – not the other way around.
Subtle, smaller patterns usually work well. A flannel or a light floral print (as you can see in the image above) are great picks. Textured clothing is another option that adds depth to photos! Other options are lace, corduroy, and knits.
When in doubt, email or text me pictures of the outfits you’re considering.
Logos and Writings When Choosing an Outfit to Wear!
Clothing with writing and logos on it tends to be distracting, just like crazy patterns. However, if the logo or phrase is tasteful and not distracting, in theme with the shoot, and fits your personality, I’m a fan of breaking this rule. Again, text me if they need help figuring out if certain logos or writing makes sense for our upcoming session together.
I am happy to hop on Facetime to make sure your outfit knocks it out of the park!
It’s not uncommon for a brand to have a small logo on a shirt sleeve or front pocket. As long as the logo is no larger than a quarter, you are safe to wear it.
Details When Choosing an Outfit to Wear!
Accessories
love a good accessory! Bold earrings, rings, cool shoes, or a nice hat all help showcase your personality.
I’m here for it. Bring multiple options to switch between during our session together because it helps me understand your personality a whole lot more!
Props
When I say props, I don’t mean those cheesy Christmas card photos with fake plastic candy canes. I mean pets, a drink, food, surfboards, paddleboards, etc.
I LOVE props! They are incredible storytellers.
The props you bring to a photo session should compliment your personality, lifestyle, and story style as a couple.
Hair and Makeup
This section is mostly about preference. So, do what you want to do! If you feel more confident getting makeup done – DO IT! If you naturally wear little to no makeup and want to stick with that – DO IT. The same goes for hair! Wear it in a way that fits your personality!
Final Notes on Choosing an Outfit to Wear to a Photoshoot!
I’m here to make sure your clothing choices reflect your story and personality. Your outfit should have that classic, trademark, you stamp on it – whether it’s something old or new!
Avoid crisp or starchy clothes that make you feel constricted or overly formal. I want a comfortable, cozy, fun version of you! At all costs, avoid sports/athletic wear. And, finally, stay away from trendy patterns and bright/neon colors!
Bring some options to the shoot! It’s always nice to have different pieces to choose from on the day of.
It’s so helpful when you keep me in the loop about what you’re planning on wearing! You can also check out my Pinterest boards! They are full of visual ideas.
You are going to look phenomenal, so don’t worry. We’re going to have the best time!
If this sounds like you, let’s chat and plan the best photoshoot ever!
