I feel blessed that I get to meet so many amazing women with the work I do in branding photography. What all these women have in common (other than a passion for the work they do), is wanting to look their best. I make sure to always have a makeup artist who can also do hair styling available for my photoshoots. This is to make sure the woman feels comfortable, confident, and camera ready.

Outfits also play a big part in business portraits. One of the biggest questions I get before and after booking is “What do I wear?”. Every woman is built differently with different skin tones, so there are no actual hard and fast rules for wardrobe. However, there are some guidelines that I’ve come to learn that apply to most women.

I want to start by saying I am not a professional stylist. I DO, however, have a handle on what photographs well.

All of the following info can be used both online and in real life. Having colors and outfits that represent your brand will carry a consistent message through of your socials, website, and even in person when representing your business.

My one caveat is above all, always choose clothing that makes you feel good when you wear it.

Let’s find out what colors and styles will be the best in your photoshoot.

 

What colors should I wear for my photoshoot?

It’s great to find a top or blazer with touches of your brand color in it (if you have brand colors). You can also pick accessories to compliment those colors or to match brand colors (again, if you have brand colors).

If you haven’t worked with a brand strategist or a personal stylist, you may want to consider having a signature color(s)  and 2 complimentary colors you love wearing. Color is a fantastic way to connect you with your clients both on and offline.

If you always to default to black because you think it hides parts of you, reconsider getting to know some color. People will feel the energy you put out in photos. If it’s an energy of “I’m hiding”, “don’t look at me”, that will come across in your photos.

Think of colors that make you look more alive, and/or colors that people compliment when you wear them. Try holding colors up to your face in natural light, this is the best way to gauge what looks good or makes your skin look washed out or sallow.

If you’re stuck when thinking about colors and tones, stick to a specific color pallet so your colors don’t look mismatched.

For example:

• • Cool, muted tones that have white in them (like watercolors)
  • Rich warm tones (earth tones)
  • Brilliant, pure pigment shades with black or pale icy colors with dark hues (like black and white etching
  • Incorporate neutrals (white, cream, black, Denim, etc) with bold colors for multi-dimensional looks

 

Can you wear patterns for your photos?

Have you heard somebody say, “Solids always photograph better than pattern”? Remember, there are no hard and fast rules with outfits. Sometimes your industry is a little more creative and some patterns really speak to your brand.

The only exception I will mention is if you are being photographed for your corporate headshots and you will be represented with others in your company. Then it is best to stick to a neutral pallet (unless specified by your company) that is made up of solids.

Other than that, patterns can be fantastic, can add visual interest and are fun to mix in. If you do decide to incorporate a pattern, try to choose patterns that are smaller in size.

Textures on the other hand photograph very well. Here are a few of my favorite textures: silk, linen, beading, sequins, and twill.

Do you need to buy all new clothes?

Finally, I want to dispel the myth, that you have to get all new clothing for a photoshoot. I always suggest doing a closet inventory to my branding and headshot clients and start with what you have. After that, if you feel you need to add in a few new pieces, go ahead.

 

Final Clothing thoughts for photoshoots

Here are some last guidelines for you to consider when choosing clothing for your photoshoot:

• Choose clothes that are comfortable and your feel great in.
• Don’t only consider color for outfits. Also consider shape.
  • Does it cinch you in at the waist? Elongate your legs or neck?
• Make sure your clothing fits you well (not too small, not oversized)
• Consider getting clothing altered by a professional to fit you better
• Chose something that you would actually wear to meet your clients in or speak at an event in.

 

 

If you need to update your photos and need lots of help with what to wear, I have a clear Welcome Guide for all my clients so they are the most prepared. Set up your discovery call here for booking information.

 

Here are some of my favorite wardrobe looks  from clients in 2023. Hopefully these will inspire your next photoshoot!

Enjoy these highlights

M