What to wear to your photoshoot | Cornwall photographer
What to wear for a photo shoot | Cornwall photographer
“Style is a way of saying who you are without having to speak"
If you’ve booked (or are thinking of booking) a photo shoot, I’m sure one of the first things you’ve thought is “what am I going to wear to my session?”
What you decide to wear is one of the most important details of your session. Colour, style and cohesion can bring in another dimension of emotion, which is what we're after, right? Thoughtfully chosen outfits will take your photos from great to AMAZING. So what the heck should you wear to your photo shoot?
So many people struggle with this that I started to invest in a client wardrobe of outfits available that are simple and timeless, that I know will photograph well in line with my style.
Top tip: keep what you wear simple and neutral, and liven it up with textures.
Outfits for photo shoots - client wardrobe
I select garments for my client wardrobe based on what photographs well and works well with my particular style of shooting and editing.
The collection is always growing and I have clothing options for most ages and sizes. I love having some creative input on what you wear to you session and will happily help you plan the wardrobe for the whole family, with honest opinions and suggestions.
If you are interested in using something of mine, visit my catalogue.
If you're on Instagram, search #ccpclientcloset.
If you're wanting to find your own outfits here is some Pinsperation for you!
Tips for selecting outfits to wear for a photo shoot
Colours
First, think about your house.
What colours dominate your home? Do you have an eclectic vibrant and colourful home, or is it more contemporary with white, beige, grey? What spaces on your walls do you intend to hang the wall art from our session?
If all goes according to plan, you’ll have these images displayed big and bold, and you want them to look fantastic! So choose according to your decor and know what colours you need to avoid at least.
Personally, my home has lots of dark wood, rustic textures, pampas, house plants, African art and tribal prints. Because it can look cluttered with all that, I opt for very plain and simple images for the walls. Nothing too busy, or the room starts to close in. Black and white, greys and earthy colours look great.
If in doubt, go for neutral colours. I love muted tones such as taupe, mustard, beige, brown, rust, off white/ivory, burgandy, teal-grey, forest green, tan, khaki, charcoal. Blush pink and shades of grey always look great too. This type of palette suits all skin tones and environments, as well as my editing style.
Colour used with intention can add to the emotion and mood of a session. If you're going to have any bright or primary colours make sure they are there for a reason.
Patterns
Like colours, choose with care. Subtle prints, patterns and florals can look beautiful when mixed up with more plain garments.
Texture
Textures in photos is one of my favourite things. I love ruffles, hand knits, chiffon, tulle, tiers, crepe, linen, cashmere... accessories are a great way to incorporate more texture and add interest to your outfits and images.
Style
Ladies
Simple, cute, elegant, boho… whatever style you feel is most YOU, really go for it. Invest in something sensational that is top quality so that it fits perfectly and you feel amazing. Seriously! I like flowing maxi dresses and skirts in family sessions and bump photo shoots and even newborn sessions. They add movement (gorgeous), can be tossed around and played with, and bring texture and romance to your images. They are so flattering, hiding lines and bumps, and awkward leg positions. For maternity sessions they hang beautifully off your bump.
Borrow from my client collection or treat yourself - there are plenty of styles and ideas on my Pinterest board.
You'll be sitting, maybe lying down, bending etc, so bear that in mind with loose top fronts. Don't wear anything that you have to keep adjusting - sleeves that fall down, bra straps that stray etc. Don’t keep hairbands around your wrist. Cut off those silly things they put on the neckline of everything to keep it on the hanger. The last thing you want is a beautiful shot ruined because of a wardrobe malfunction.
Little ones
Neutrals, whites, earthy tones and rustic textures are perfect for baby photography sessions. Stretchy one-piece outfits are lovely. I love rompers and dungarees on all ages. Toddlers and babies can even be stripped off to a vest or nappy for some shots. Keep outfits simple, sweet and comfortable looking. My suggested shops below supply gorgeous clothes which you can order online, or you can look for something similar on the high street.
Steer clear of cartoon characters and graphics, clothes that are too big (they should be a snug fit) and anything too fussy or colourful.
Men
Jeans/neutral chinos with a plain long sleeve stretch t-shirt or linen button up shirt is perfect. Rough knits in winter - so comforting and masculine! Something simple with a bit of texture will photograph well.
Try to avoid your work shirts (boring and too formal). Logos, graphics or writing on shirt fronts should be avoided. No hoodies or football shirts! There are plenty of examples on my Pinterest board for men too.
Coordinate:
Think of what everyone will be wearing as one big outfit with different layers. They don't have to match or be the same, but each person's outfit must compliment and work well with the others. Lay them all out and see how they look together. Little details can bring them together - add a scarf or a cardigan to tie one outfit to another. I suggest sticking to a simple colour palette and paying attention to light/dark tones together too.
Gorgeous tones and outfit choice at Porthcurnick Beach on the Roseland in this maternity session
Grooming
Don’t overlook this important aspect when considering what to wear. Hair, nails, moisturising, being well hydrated all helps you look and feel your best. Avoid fake tan and coloured nail polish.
Hair & Make up
It is highly recommended to book in professional hair and make up for your session. I am happy to organise this for you.
Remember, you’ll be looking at these images for many years to come and it’s the smallest of details that will take your portraits from ok to incredible.
Shops I love...
Some of my favourite suppliers are internationally based so make sure you order well in advance of our session to ensure they arrive in time. Shopping under pressure is never fun so don't leave it til later! This should be a really fun part of the process!
Women
Bohemian Angel (overseas)
Vici Collection (overseas)
Littles
Notice that I do not have stores like Frugi on the list… I really prefer neutrals for photo shoots!
Men
Preloved... I'm 100% for doing my bit to help our environment. If you shop on E-Bay, it's a great way to recycle clothes and keep costs down. You could include 'boho/ruffles/tiers/maxi' in your search terms and you'll find more of the type of thing that works. My favourite brands to search for are Free People, Anthropologie, Noa Noa, Spell and the Gypsy, Zara, Boden :)
(These are my suggestions based on my style - you should base choices on what you’ll feel most yourself in)