What to wear is one of the most asked questions I get and where many people struggle. From colors to styling it can be a daunting task to sift through your closet or plan a shopping trip. Have no fear I am here to help with a Wardrobe and style guide. Also, no need to buy anything new, unless you really want, and it makes you feel amazing.
We cover this in the consultation before the session so you can have an idea of what colors you want and outfits you want to bring. Here are some suggestions, and I do mean suggestions that are rooted photographically speaking. They are not hard and fast rules. Your style is unique to you and you should embrace that. Remember…
”If you look good, you’ll feel good,
– Unknown
And if you feel good, you’ll look good”
What does that actually mean? If you are wearing a color that makes you happy or you know is your color. Or an outfit you totally rock in and makes you feel like a million bucks. It will elevate your mood and presence in the photographs. Your energy is what is carried through into the portraits and if you can tap into where you feel the most alive and the most yourself the resulting images will be that much more impactful.
This wardrobe and style guide is meant to help you hone in on some key areas when considering what to bring to your portrait session for outfits.
Fit
Your clothes should fit well. Sometimes if a piece is too tight, or even too loose, you will unconsciously be thinking about it and pulling or fiddling with it. This will take your mind off of your expression and being present as you. Now there are some ways we can fix ill-fitting clothing. From clips to fit your form a little more closely or not completely zipping up dresses if the zipper is able to be hidden. However, that too can cause some discomfort that can translate onto facial expressions unknowingly
Color
Everyone has colors that they look great in and some people know that about themselves. Some just wear their favorite color. Color can have a huge impact when working with images for branding. I go into some color theory around that in another post. Colors can photograph differently depending on lighting and other colors present in the scene. While it’s best to avoid bright colors, that can depend on the use of the images. However, If a color makes you happy and you look good. Wear it! Especially if it is part of your brand.
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Patterns
Solid color pieces or subtle patterns are easier to photograph and don’t detract from the focus of the images which usually is your face. Plaids, lace, small florals are great. The idea is not to sell the piece of clothing and to showcase you and who you are. Unless it is a fashion shoot for a brand. Again, only suggestions, so if you are the type of person who likes to wear big, bold, loud patterns. Do it! I am speaking photographically and how the images can be viewed.
Style
What do I mean by style? This is how formal or casual the outfit is and what you are looking to portray. For a headshot, you may want a professional or business casual look whereas certain branding imagery may require a causal look or athletic wear style. Having a range of styles in outfit choices is great too. From the jeans and white t-shirt all the way up to the formal gala or black-tie attire.
Grooming and Hair & Makeup
First of all, it is highly recommended that you opt for this service for your session because it will free you up from stressing over doing it yourself and give you that polished look that enhances your overall presence. Yes, I even recommend it for those who don’t typically wear makeup or have their hair done. Mostly talking to you gentleman. I have had several men request this and while the process isn’t as involved as a feminine look it can still give amazing results. It is totally worth it. I include it in this wardrobe and style guide because it affects the overall look and vibe you are wanting to present. The style of outfit can determine the style of hair and makeup.
Accessories
Jewelry, hats, scarves, or anything else that will enhance the look or you would want in your photos. Props for personal branding or senior photos. For instance, a laptop or sports equipment.
We will go through all of this at the Consultation so you have a good understanding of the direction of the shoot and how these things fit. I feel it is very important that clients are involved in this stage. Not only does it create better images but it allows you to work with me before the session and we can combine our visions for the photoshoot. Ultimately it will help make you more comfortable once the camera comes into play.
If you have already booked a session with Wohler & Co. You were likely sent here during the process. In the likelihood, you found this article on your own feel free to bookmark this Wardrobe and Style Guide so you can return to it when you need to get things in line for your next portrait session.
Resources
Here are some local shops if you wish to acquire new outfits for your session. Many are within walking distance of the studio.
If you are completely overwhelmed in this area. Hiring a stylist can do wonders. They are there to enhance your existing style and can curate a great array of outfit options.
