Tips and advice for what to wear to your photoshoot.
"What shall I wear?" is probably the most common questions that we get asked here at the Gold Coast Photography Studio. Now, obviously I can't give you a specific answer in a blog, but here are some general guidelines to give you an idea.
First of all, planning is key - think of what style you're going for, and what realistically suits you the best. Talk to the photographer first! Whatever you choose, make it a distinct style and colour palette. It's a great idea to dress up in your outfit to check it out, and then check with the photographer before the shoot.
Below is a general
guide for shoots - but if you're looking for a
different look and want to tear up the rulebook,
go for it!
What to wear to
your photoshoot
• Think in terms of the complete outfit rather
than individual pieces.
• Coordinate colours - don't match them.
• Bring alternatives so the outfit can be mixed
and matched.
• Stick to solid colours and subtle patterns. Big
logos or bold patterns are just distracting.
• As a general rule, the younger you are, the
brighter the colours you can get away with.
• Layers and textures can give depth to a shot –
an open shirt over a top with a couple of
necklaces for example.
• Jewellery can look good but avoid anything too
fussy.
• Don't forget shoes! Preferably, each outfit
needs a different pair of shoes.
• Props and accessories - a prop can look great
and something to hold can make your hands look
much more natural. A handbag, a hat, or sunglasses
for that beach look. Or bring something personal
and interesting.
• Plan all your hairstyles in advance - it may be
impractical to change your hair too dramatically
on the day, so work out in what order to do your
hair.
• For the guys – work out what your facial hair is
going to be doing in the shoot in advance.
Clean-shaven, 5 o'clock shadow, stubble or a beard
- all can look great but anything 'inbetweeny'
looks awful. Whatever you choose - make sure you
really go for it.
• Don't forget your nails (yes, guys too) - make
sure they're clean and trimmed, and painted
perfectly to match your outfit(s).
Things to avoid during a photoshoot
• Anything you'll be uncomfortable in.
• Avoid clothes with bold logos.
• Avoid stripes and dots. Despite what you've
heard, they won't do you any favours.
• Anything that's prone to being crumpled (unless
crumpled is your signature style).
• Tan lines – make sure your outfit doesn't expose
an unwanted tan line, particularly men with tan
lines across the arms and women with tan lines
across the chest.
• Avoid bright reds, yellows and oranges – they
stand out too much and also reflect unwanted
colour onto the skin.
• Short sleeves can look awkward - better to have
something that exposes the shoulder or ends at the
elbow.
• Tight clothes can look great – but be realistic.
Too tight looks dreadful.
• Baggy clothes that you can hide in. Even if
you're a bit self-conscious about your curvier
bits, don't try and hide them - loose baggy
clothes will generally make everyone look bigger.
Your photographer will know what angles are best
to flatter your shape, so wear it proudly!
• Tight clothes before the shoot – tight-fitting
clothes can leave marks on the skin for hours.
• Avoid overly glossy make-up – it can be too
reflective.
• Mini-skirts. Unless you have absolutely stunning
legs, just don't. Trust me.
• Excessive alcohol the night before the shoot.
• Big or bloaty meals before the shoot.
Things to bring bring to your photoshoot
• A comb, brush and any other hair accessories you
need.
• Make up and make-up remover.
• Spare stockings and tights.
• Lip balm (not a chapstick) to make your lips
shiny – this includes the guys. • A robe to keep
warm between shots.
• Music! You might not like the photographers
choice, so bring a phone or ipod with your
photoshoot playlist already loaded.
Cheers,
matt g