If you have an upcoming photo session, you might be wondering what on earth you should wear. It’s a common question, and honestly, it’s totally understandable to feel a bit unsure about it. I’ve had many clients come to me with a mix of excitement and anxiety about choosing their outfits, and I’m always happy to share some tips. So, let’s dive into it!

The Importance of What You Wear

First off, let me just say that what you wear really does make a difference. The clothes you choose can affect how you feel, which in turn impacts your expressions during the shoot. When you’re comfortable and confident in your outfit, it shows in your smile and overall demeanor.

I primarily focus on business headshots, but these tips apply to all types of photography—family portraits, senior pictures, you name it. So, let’s break it down into what I like to call the “Three C’s”: Comfort, Color, and Collection.

1. Comfort

Let’s start with comfort. This might seem like a no-brainer, but it’s crucial. Bring clothes that you know fit you well and that you feel good in. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve had clients buy new outfits only to realize they’ve never actually tried them on for an extended period.

When you’re in a store, it’s easy to feel great in something, but once you’re sitting or standing for a while, it can feel completely different. Trust me, I’ve been there! I’ve bought something that felt amazing in the store, only to sit down at a meeting and feel self-conscious about how it fits.

So, before your session, wear your new clothes for a few hours. Move around, sit down, and see how they feel. You want to eliminate any self-consciousness about your outfit during the shoot. The more comfortable you are, the more confident you’ll feel, and that confidence will shine through in your photos.

2. Color

Next up is color. I always advise my clients to avoid clashing colors and busy patterns. While patterns can be fun, they can also be distracting, especially in a business headshot where you want the focus to be on your face.

Of course, there are exceptions. If you have a vibrant personality or your brand embraces bold patterns, go for it! Just make sure it doesn’t overshadow your beautiful face. I often recommend solid colors with maybe a pop of color here and there. For instance, a dark business jacket with a bright shirt underneath can add a nice touch without being overwhelming.

And don’t forget about accessories! A colorful scarf can introduce a fun element without taking over the entire look.

3. Collection

Finally, let’s talk about collection. As in, a collection of outfits. I always encourage my clients to bring more than one outfit—ideally three. This way, you can have different looks for various purposes. For example, you might want one business outfit, one more relaxed look, and a third that’s somewhere in between, like business casual.

Having a variety of outfits allows us to capture different angles and expressions. Plus, it keeps things interesting! I love to see my clients relax and show their true personalities during the shoot, and having multiple outfits can help facilitate that.

Wrapping It Up

So, to recap:

Comfort: Wear clothes that you feel good in and that fit well.

Color: Choose colors that complement you without being distracting.

Collection: Bring a few outfits to give us options during the session.

I hope these tips help you prepare for your photo session, whether it’s with me or another photographer. The more prepared you are, the better your experience will be, and you’ll get so much more out of it. If you know someone who might find this helpful, feel free to share!