Outfits either make or break a photo. Whether you go for a casual, professional, or artistic vibe, the right clothing photography will significantly change the appeal of your photo. Frequently, people fail to set the right mood in their pictures by choosing clothes that clash with the setting. A good outfit is not only crucial to enhance the subject but it also complements the overall composition.
How to Choose the Right Clothing for a Photoshoot
So, how do you make sure the outfits you choose make the best impact on your photos? Let’s explore the key points to consider when choosing outfits for your next photoshoot.
Wear Clothes That Fit Well
It may sound obvious but, many people tend to dig out their fancy clothes or ones saved for special occasions. Oftentimes these clothes don’t fit quite well as they used to yet they’re brought to the shoot with hopes they’ll work. Don’t make this mistake and ensure you pick outfits that fit you well.
Clothing that is too tight may affect your ability to pose comfortably, which may make you self-conscious and lose confidence. Tight clothing also tends to cause indentations in the skin and reveal bulges. On the other hand, loose-fitting clothing may add more weight to your appearance, making you look less defined.
Avoid Clothing That Grabs Too Much Attention
Unless you are modeling for a brand, you as a subject are the focal point of the photo. Wearing clothing with complicated patterns and graphics can take the attention away from you. It is best to avoid clothing with huge graphics, logos, and extraordinary patterns like animal prints. Plain outfits with minimal distractions are an optimal choice.
Additionally, bright colors like red and yellow also overpower the subject and draw too much attention. Stick to solid and neutral colors for a more polished look. We also recommend including more earthy colors in your outfits but don’t feel limited to just beige and browns. Instead, opt for muted versions of colors. For example; instead of red you can choose burgundy.
Consider Theme and Location
When choosing an outfit it is crucial to understand the theme of your shoot and then choose the outfit accordingly. Discuss the theme with your photographer beforehand as it can provide you insights on the chosen location or setting. For example, a casual outdoor or lifestyle shoot will require you to be dressed in relaxed everyday attire.
Generally, for darker locations, it is best to avoid dark clothing as you may get mixed in with the background. It is best to wear light colors to ensure you stand out. Whereas, for bright locations light and neutral colors usually work well.
Coordinate Colors
Color coordination in general can make your clothing photography cohesive and visually appealing which works particularly well for photoshoots as well. To create a unified look, choose one piece of clothing and let the other items complement its colors. You can achieve this by learning the basics of color theory or finding color palettes for your chosen color. Color palettes can give you insights into what colors work best with each other allowing for better coordination.
Additionally, if there are multiple people in the frame, be mindful of how everyone’s outfits coordinate with each other. Avoid wearing the exact same color as your partner, for example, don’t wear a black shirt if your partner is wearing one too. Create a subtle look by wearing different colors from the same palette.
Wear What Makes You Feel Confident
Despite all the rules, the key to pulling off almost any outfit is confidence. If Marylin Monroe can rock a photo shoot in a potato sack, you can certainly wear anything as long as it brings out your confidence. You can dress glamourous but if you don’t feel confident in your clothes, it will always show on camera. The best advice we can give you here is to choose an outfit that you feel the most comfortable in.
Bring Multiple Options
Yes, you can bring multiple outfits to your shoot. Many photographers recommend their clients have a few options available in case one doesn’t work as planned. We understand how difficult it is to pick one best outfit. Taking a few outfits along will allow your photographer to help you choose the best one for you.
In detailed shoots photographers often allow multiple wardrobe changes. Make sure to discuss the specifications with your photographer.
Conclusion
Your clothing for photography has a significant impact on the final results of your photos. Choosing the right one involves careful considerations to ensure you create a cohesive image and match the vibe of the setting. Careful coordination and prioritizing comfort can help you look your best and allow your personality to shine through the images. Remember, the best photos capture not just your appearance, but also your essence.