What to Wear at your Portrait Session

Several years ago I wrote a blog post on what to wear for portrait sessions and to my surprise it was published and linked back to us on several sites. Since it’s been so long now, I decided to touch on the subject again as we still get asked “What should we wear?” on a fairly frequent basis.

There are several things one should consider when choosing what you want to wear for the portraits. For instance, do you know where you want to hang the portraits? What colors do you have in the room, on the wall, etc., what would look good with your walls and décor?

Next let’s consider your location of the photo shoot. We are aware that it’s popular for people to wear white if they are on the beach under the bright sun. Remember you’re wearing a reflector of light. We ask that maybe you consider pastels instead of pure white. However if your heart is set on pure white, as professional photographers we will get you taken care of!

Most portrait sessions will involve a couple of locations, such Point Defiance Park with its greenery and beach setting.

Usually I like to suggest selecting some coordinating colors, for example choose one color (blues, greens, purples, etc.) and then a neutral color. With the color, use the various hues of that selected color.

Let each person wear something that shows off their style and personality! Maybe by adding some texture such as wool sweater, leather jacket, a bright silky colored scarf, a knitted scarf, jewelry, etc. the ideas are limitless.

We love color! Especially on a typical northwest cloudy gray day. So, with that said you will never hear my suggest wearing gray for your portrait session. =)

Wear comfortable shoes, be prepared to move around in the sand on the beach, the grass, going up and down stairs or maybe even climbing a tree! If you can do that in stilettos, then you will have my total admiration.

Most importantly, forget about us being there with our cameras. We don’t want you just standing there starring into the camera like a deer staring into the car headlights. Be prepared to have some fun, hug each other, kiss each other, laugh, tickle each other, dance like no one is watching and leave knowing you created some memories and beautiful portraits!
Now if everything I said makes you totally uncomfortable, then disregard what I wrote and do what makes YOU happy because being unhappy will show in your portraits and well, that’s just unacceptable! We want you looking your best; we want you to rock your session!

~ 253-970-5689 ~ info@familyaffairphotography.com ~ www.familyaffairphotography.com ~