One of the things I often get asked by clients is, “What do I wear to my portrait session?” The answer depends on a few things, and hopefully this post will help to ease some of the stress associated with choosing what you’ll wear in your photos.

Solo Sessions are the simplest to plan because your clothing options do not depend on any other people. For all sessions, I recommend that you start with what you are comfortable wearing. There is nothing more unfortunate that someone who is not comfortable in their session. I want you to be yourself in your photos, and that won’t happen unless you are comfortable.  Especially when planning sessions for your children, be flexible in what they are going to wear. Perhaps let them wear the outfit they love most right now. Happy children = great pictures!

For couples, I recommend that you try to match in some way, but never, ever wear the exact same color shirt. If both of you are wearing the same color on top, you will blend together in your photos, and that doesn’t flatter anyone. Here is a good example of a couple who is coordinating well:

Their outfits are in the same color family, but they aren’t exactly the same.

If you are doing a family session, start with a a foundation color and go from there. You can accent with pops of color, especially through accessories. Solid shirts are the most flattering on everyone and photograph well (You can wear prints too, just be careful which ones you choose. Make sure they are not distracting). Let each family member show their personal style through the accessories that they choose. Here is an example of a family who coordinated well for their session:

Hopefully this helps you to plan what you’ll wear to your portrait session. Pinterest is a great tool where you can also search for outfit ideas. If you do a Pinterest search for “family portraits,” you will come across a host of ideas to help you coordinate your own choices.

If you still aren’t sure, please call me and I will work with you to help in any way that I can!