The first thing that comes to my mind for being photographed is imagining what the photographs will look like and wondering what to wear and thinking that I have NOTHING to wear. My instinct is to do online shopping or to dash off to the mall over lunch. BUT... That's simply because I love to shop 😜 Any excuse to shop, right?
This is the perfect excuse to buy something new that you will love, but you already have something in your wardrobe that you will look incredible in. The thing that is going to look the best on camera is whatever outfit makes you feel best. As long as you are confident the camera is going to work wonders.
THINGS TO AVOID
Too many bright colours.
Logos / branded shirts / a ton of graphic lettering (a small logo is OK, but you don’t want a huge sign all over your chest)
Anything shiny / reflective
Stay away from clothes that are too big or are baggy. Clothes that fit well always translates good on camera.
GUIDELINES ON WHAT TO WEAR
Outfits should complement each other. Plain white / beige / some black will work. Coordinate clothing so that outfits fall in the same tonal ranges (more or less the same colours that go together such as blue & beige, pink & beige etc.) so that no single member of the family stands out because the clothing is too light or bright as compared to the rest of the group. If everyone wears dark blue for example and one person wears white, the eye will be drawn to the person wearing white. You don't have to match like have everyone wear black / all white shirts, rather coordinate everything in a nice neutral palette.
Examples of things I love in photographs are textures like chunky knits or lace. A jean jacket / small fitted blazer over a flowing dress always looks amazing if that is something that you'll likely wear.
WAYS TO ENHANCE YOUR PHOTOGRAPHS
Get a manicure (baby pink or a color that coordinates with your outfit, even white can look timeless). Make sure everyone's nails are clean.
Consider getting a blowout the day of your shoot, or add simple curls to long hair.
Keep your makeup classic, but not too heavy and touch up your lips just before the session.
Accesorise. If you like floppy hats, bring and wear a nice wool one but go over it with a lint roller before your session. Add your favorite pieces of jewellery. This automatically makes you shine and bring in your personality.
FOR THE GUYS
Avoid anything with a ton of graphic lettering, rather go for a solid/ pattern than a graphic tee.
A haircut 1 or 2 weeks before will make sure you look sharp. But simply get your usual style - it is not the time to experiment with something new.
FURBABY
Have your furry friend brushed or groomed a day before.
Your photographs will show your personal style, so wear what feels most natural for you. The photographs are going on your wall, so it is best if you are your beautiful usual yourself. I'm capturing you in this stage of life, not something you are not. You don't want to look way more formal than you actually are.
If you're not sure, feel free to bring a change of clothes and I'll advise. I've put together a Pinterest board for your inspiration.
There is no right or wrong formula on what to wear, wear what you feel confident in because that's what is going to make the photo look amazing is if you feel good and confident.
Self-confidence is the best outfit, rock it and own it.
See you soon!
-Salome