"What should I wear?" is the question I get most often before a session, usually followed by a slightly panicked, "I have nothing nice." Take a breath. You don't need a new wardrobe, and you don't need to look like a magazine. You just need clothes that fit well and feel like you.
Here's my simple guide to dressing for your photoshoot, with the reasoning behind each tip so you can make your own calls.
Rule one: comfort comes first
If you're tugging at your waistband, fixing your collar, or shivering in a thin top, it will show in your face and your posture. Pick outfits you can sit, walk, laugh, and move in. If you've worn the outfit before and felt great, that's a good sign.
This matters even more for people who are nervous on camera. When you're comfortable in your clothes, you're one less thing to worry about. And the fewer things you worry about, the easier it is to look relaxed.
Rule two: wear what feels like you
The best outfit is one that matches your personality. If you live in vintage band tees and denim, wear that. If you love a crisp blazer, wear that. The goal is for people to look at the photo and say, "That's so them."
Cassie, who was new to the area and wasn't sure who to hire, noticed that I "focused on the person, their style, and picked locations that fit perfect." That's how I approach clothing, too. I'm not here to change your style. I'm here to help it shine.
Colors that photograph well
I edit in a warm, natural tone, so colors that complement that look beautiful.
Earth tones and warm neutrals: rust, olive, mustard, cream, tan, warm brown, and denim blue.
Rich jewel tones like deep green, burgundy, or navy, especially in fall and winter.
Soft, muted colors that look good against greenery or brick, like dusty rose, sage, or warm gray.
What to be careful with: very neon colors, which can reflect onto your skin, and pure white, which can blow out in bright light. Cream or ivory usually looks softer.
A good trick: choose colors that look good next to your skin, hair, and eyes. If a color makes you feel awake and healthy in the mirror, it'll do the same on camera.
Patterns and textures
Texture adds depth and makes photos feel rich. Knit sweaters, denim, corduroy, linen, leather jackets, and flowy fabrics all photograph beautifully.
Patterns are fine too, with a couple of cautions:
Skip tiny, tight patterns like thin stripes or small checks. They can create a shimmering, distorted effect on camera.
Avoid big logos and loud graphics, which pull attention away from you.
If you wear a pattern, keep everything else simple. One bold piece is plenty.
Fit matters more than price
A modest outfit that fits well looks better than an expensive one that doesn't. Clothes that are too tight pull and wrinkle. Clothes that are too loose can hide your shape and look sloppy. Tailored or just-right pieces are the sweet spot.
Plan to iron or steam before your session. Wrinkles show up in photos, especially in lighter fabrics.
Layers, shoes, and little details
Bring layers. A jacket, cardigan, or scarf gives you an easy way to change your look in the middle of a session. Your session includes up to two looks, so this makes it simple.
Think about shoes. If we're hiking, walking a trail, or exploring downtown, wear shoes you can actually move in. Bring a second pair if you want to switch.
Accessories help, but keep it simple. Jewelry, hats, glasses, and scarves can add personality. Just don't pile on so much that it becomes a distraction.
Think about your hair and grooming. Do whatever makes you feel put together. Natural is great. Overthinking it isn't.
Dressing for your location
We'll choose a location together, so your outfit and setting can work as a team. A moody downtown street pairs well with leather and darker tones. A sunny park or hillside goes with soft layers and lighter colors. If we're at a coffee shop or in your home, cozy knits and everyday favorites look great.
If you're not sure, send me a photo of your outfit options and tell me where we're headed. I'm happy to weigh in.
Dressing for different sessions
Headshots. Choose solid colors that feel professional and approachable. Avoid anything with a busy neckline. Wear what you'd wear to a client meeting on a great day.
Couples and friends. Coordinate, don't match. Choose colors in the same palette so you look like you belong together, without wearing identical outfits.
Families. Pick a palette of three or four colors and let everyone wear a different one. Skip matching shirts, and let personalities show.
Creative and brand shoots. Dress in a way that supports your brand. Lo, who did a creative studio shoot with me, said the photos "speak so well to my brand and authenticity." That starts with wardrobe that feels true to what you do.
A quick pre-shoot checklist
Choose one or two outfits you feel great in.
Check the fit and steam out any wrinkles.
Pack a layer and an extra pair of shoes.
Bring any accessories or props you love.
Get a good night's sleep and drink water.
Don't stress
If you show up in something that isn't perfect, we'll make it work. I've never had an outfit ruin a session. A relaxed, happy person in a mismatched sweater always beats a stressed-out person in a perfect outfit.
Need help planning your look? Book a free consultation and we'll talk through your outfits, your location, and the vibe you're going for before your session.
