Choosing what to wear for your photoshoot
Deciding what to wear for your photoshoot can be hard! Not only have we got to find something that we feel comfortable in, it also has to suit the time of year (which isn't always that predictable in the UK!!). So that's why I've put together a few things to think about when choosing your outfit. What you wear can really make or break a your photos.
I'm happy if you want to send me pictures ahead of our shoot and have a conversation about what you are planning on wearing. You can also bring a choice of clothes if you aren't sure and we can have an outfit change part way through.
You've got to feel comfortable in whatever you decide to wear. If you aren't comfortable then you won't look comfortable in the pictures. I've written the below advice as simply that, advice. I can advise you on what I think will look good in the photos, but ultimately it's your shoot! These are YOUR memories that we are documenting so you're in control.
Overall advice as I know it can be overwhelming and a little stressful at times trying to coordinate outfits, but I would say find one anchoring outfit and work everyone else around this. Ideally, I would say find a flowy skirt and top combo or dress combo for mum and work the rest of the family around this (If mum looks and feels amazing so will the rest of the family!).
Colours
Soft, earthy colours are ideal and will complement each other easily, i.e. cream, taupe, Camel, soft brown, oatmeal, warm grey and olive. Muted Denim is also a safe timeless choice that goes with pretty much everything (although try and avoid everyone in jeans and white tops and this can make the pictures look a little flat.
Avoid bright primary and neon colours that will dominate the photos as these can also reflect coloured light on to your skin.
Use the above colour pallet as your base, then add ONE complimenting accent colour if you wish; a rust, warm maroon, soft terracotta, dusty rose, sage, muted mustard, deep teal.
I'd favour warm colours over cool tones.
Mix light, medium and dark colours (using the above colour pallet) - this helps to create some depth to your photos.
Patterns and logos
Avoid logos and graphics, and tiny stripes as these can be too distracting and look messy. Soft patterns can add a lovely texture to your outfits (e.g. small repeating flower pattern).
Hats and accessories
Hats and other accessories can be fun and add a creative and dynamic element. If you're unsure about if you should wear a hat or accessory, my advice would be to bring it along anyway. We can take some photos with and without the item so that if you don't like the photos of you with it, then you've got choice (and visa versa)!
Having said this, I would say to avoid sunglasses and smart watches. I will do my best to spot any unwanted accessories (i.e. the resident hair band on the wrist that is there 'just in case') but please do and try to remove any unwanted items before our shoot as it is easy to get carried away with the shoot and not always notice.
Loose fitting clothes
Loose fitting and floaty clothes are great for giving movement and adding a dynamic edge to your photo. For example, long dresses, skirts and shirts. What looks great in a photo, isn't always what you would go to Tesco in!
Layers and Texture
Unless it is guaranteed to be hot in one of those rare heatwaves that we sporadically and briefly get, then I would suggest bringing layers to help to stay warm and comfortable. A scarf and cardigan/ jacket can be a nice addition and add some depth and movement to your outfit.
Try and find some variety in the material of your pieces. The best textures are knits, linen, corduroy, suede boots to name a few.
Underwear
With all of the planning and organising of outfits, it's easy to forget about our underwear.... Try and remember to wear nude or white underwear if you are wearing light coloured clothes. You might not be able to see your underwear through your clothes in your bedroom lighting, but natural lighting is very good at revealing our wardrobe mishaps!!
