Optimise Your Look: Perfecting Portrait Photo Session Outfit

​When creating timeless and stunning portraits, the right wardrobe choices can make all the difference. At Benson Photography, I believe that what you wear plays an important role in capturing your personality and creating images you’ll cherish for a lifetime. ​No matter what type of portrait photo session you are planning, whether for your family, your children, or even a professional headshot, selecting the perfect outfit is essential to get the best results. Whether in the scenic Vaal Triangle or elsewhere, selecting the right outfit will guarantee beautiful, timeless images. As a professional photographer, I’ve helped many clients to achieve picture-perfect results by following these simple guidelines. So here are some tips to help you select the perfect outfit for your portrait photo session.

Key Takeaways:

• Consider the overall look and vibe you want to achieve in your photos.
• Opt for colours that match and complement your natural skin tone.
• When selecting an outfit, think of your personal style and the photo session’s location.
• Accessories can add visual interest and personality to your outfit.
• Dress for comfort and make sure your outfit reflects your personality and individuality.

Consider the Overall Look of the Photo

When preparing for your portrait session, keep in mind how you want your photos to look overall. Consider the style and mood you want to convey and select clothing that complements that vision. Whether you want a casual, relaxed look or a more formal, polished appearance, your outfit should align with the overall feel of the photos.

If you’re unsure of the tone you want to set, think about the setting of the photos. Are you taking them outdoors in a natural environment or inside a studio with a more controlled atmosphere? The location can give you cues about what type of clothing to select.

It’s not just about your own clothing, either. Consider the outfits of others present in the photos, such as family members or friends. Make sure their outfits align with your overall vision to create a cohesive look.

Matching Your Outfit to the Location

When selecting an outfit for your photo session, consider the setting where the photos will take place. For outdoor shoots, you may want to wear something that fits the surroundings, like earthy tones for a forest scene or light, airy fabrics. For indoor shoots, consider the space’s aesthetic and choose an outfit that complements the decor.

You can also consider the time of day. For example, if the shoot is taking place during golden hour, you may want a warmer-toned outfit to match the golden light. Similarly, if the shoot is in the evening, you may want to opt for darker, more dramatic clothing.

By considering the overall look of the photos when selecting your outfit, you can create stunning, cohesive portraits that truly capture the mood and style that you want to convey.

Choose Colours That Complement Your Skin Tone

When getting ready for your portrait photo session, the colours you wear can significantly affect how you look in the photos. To look your best, it’s essential to consider your skin tone when choosing your outfit.

If you have warm undertones in your skin, colours like earthy reds, oranges, yellows, and greens will complement your skin tone. Cool undertones, on the other hand, work well with jewel tones like emerald green, sapphire blue, and ruby red.

If you’re unsure about your skin tone, look at the veins on your wrist. Blue veins suggest cool undertones, while green veins indicate warm undertones.

Avoid wearing colours that clash with your skin tone, such as pastels, if you have a more olive complexion. Instead, opt for shades that bring out the natural glow in your skin.

Remember, the goal is to choose colours that enhance your natural features and make you look your best. You can create timeless photos you’ll cherish for years by selecting the right colours.

Take Location into Account for Your Portrait Session Outfit

When deciding what to wear for your portrait session, it’s important to consider the location of the shoot. For outdoor settings, take a look at the surroundings and the weather. For example, if you’re shooting outside in the Vaal Triangle, you might want to wear light, airy clothing to make the most of the beautiful scenery while staying cool and comfortable.

You may also want to consider the lighting conditions in outdoor settings. For example, if you’re shooting during golden hour, warm colours such as oranges, reds, and yellows will complement the warm lighting and create a beautiful overall look.

Indoor shoots require a slightly different approach. Consider the decor and ambience of the space when choosing your outfit. For example, if you’re shooting in a formal setting such as a studio, you might want to wear more traditional clothing such as a suit or dress.

Ultimately, the location of your portrait session is a key factor to consider when deciding on your outfit. Choosing clothing that aligns with the surroundings and ambience will create a cohesive and beautiful overall look that will enhance your photos.

Accessorize Your Outfit

Your selection of accessories can make all the difference. Add some personal flair while enhancing your overall look with jewellery, scarves, hats, or belts. Accessorizing can elevate your outfit and create visual interest in your photos, making them stand out.

Be sure to choose accessories that complement your outfit and skin tone. If your outfit is predominantly neutral, add a statement necklace or earrings to add a pop of colour. If your outfit is bold and colourful, tone down the accessories to avoid being too overwhelming. An outdoor session may call for sunglasses and a sunhat to protect you from the sun, while an indoor session could benefit from some statement earrings or a hair accessory to make your look more attractive.

Remember, the goal is to accessorize to enhance your outfit without overpowering it. Make sure to strike a good balance, and you’ll be sure to create a timeless and beautiful photo.

Pick Outfits for Your Entire Family

If you’re preparing for a family portrait session with Benson Photography or elsewhere, it’s essential to coordinate everyone’s outfits. To create a cohesive look, it’s important to select colours and styles that complement each other without being too matchy-matchy.

Start by picking a colour palette that works well together. This can include neutral tones, pastels, or even bright colours, depending on the setting and style of the session. You can also choose a patterned garment for one or two family members and pull colours from that for the rest of the family’s clothing.

It’s also important to consider the season and location of the session. If it’s an outdoor shoot in autumn, consider incorporating warm tones such as maroon or mustard yellow. Opt for light and airy fabrics in pastel shades and blue or green hues for an outdoor photo session.

Remember that each family member should feel comfortable in what they’re wearing. Consider family members’ personalities and preferences to ensure that the outfits are appropriate and expressive.

Consider Props

Props are an excellent way to add interest and personality to your portrait photos. By incorporating items that reflect your hobbies and interests, you can create a unique and authentic feel to the session. Take some time to brainstorm relevant props that could enhance your photos – anything from musical instruments and sports equipment to pets or special memorabilia.

When choosing props, remember your session’s overall tone and theme. Consider incorporating candles, flowers or love letters if you’re going for a romantic vibe. Alternatively, if you’re after a fun and playful vibe, bring along some toys or board games.

Props can also serve as something to do or help ease any nerves you or your family members may feel. For example, if you have kids involved in the session, bring some bubbles, balloons or toys to keep them entertained and engaged. Here are some more tips on props by Miranda Kelton Photography.

Feel free to discuss your props with me in more detail when we discuss your session. I will help guide you on which props may work best, how to incorporate them into the session and offer creative ideas to make your photos truly personalized and special.

Dress for Comfort and Confidence

When preparing for a portrait photo session, choosing the right outfit is essential to achieving great photos that showcase your best self. As a professional photographer, I always advise my clients to prioritize comfort and confidence. Feeling comfortable and confident in what you wear can significantly impact your photos.

Choose an outfit that fits well, not too tight or too loose. Flowy clothing can create a whimsical look, but it may look unflattering in photos if it’s too baggy. On the other hand, clothing that’s too tight can appear uncomfortable and restrict your movement during the session. So, it’s essential to find the perfect balance between comfort and style that makes you feel comfortable and confident.

Opt for clothing that flatters your body type and complements your skin tone. Choose colours that match your best features and make you feel good about yourself. Your style should shine in your outfit, so embrace your unique style and dress for yourself, not for popular trends. When you feel great in your outfit, it shows in your photos.

Add accessories that complement your outfit, such as a statement necklace or your favourite pair of earrings, to feel even more confident. But be careful not to overdo it; less is more regarding accessories. You want them to enhance your look, not distract from it.

By dressing for comfort and confidence, you can relax and enjoy your portrait session, resulting in beautiful portraits that capture your unique personality and style.

Pay Attention to Grooming and Hair

In capturing the perfect portrait photo, grooming and hairstyling can significantly impact your overall appearance. Your hair and facial hair should be well-groomed, and your hairstyle should complement your outfit and the overall look you’re going for.

If you plan on changing your hairstyle or trying a new look, we suggest doing so at least a few weeks before your photo session. This way, you’ll have time to adjust and get used to your new style.

When grooming, consider facial hair, eyebrows, and nails. Make sure they’re neat, and consider incorporating makeup for a polished finish, especially if we’ll be taking close-up portrait images.

The bottom line: don’t overlook the importance of grooming and hairstyling when planning your portrait session outfit. Take the time to ensure you look your best from head to toe!

Be Mindful of Trends and Timelessness

As a photographer, I’ve seen my fair share of outfit choices – some trendy, some timeless, and some that fall in between. While it can be tempting to go with the latest fashion trends, it’s crucial to remember that trends change quickly and can become outdated in months or even weeks.

When selecting an outfit for a portrait session, I recommend choosing trendy and timeless pieces. This way, your photos will capture the essence of the current time while also looking stylish and relevant for years to come.

A great way to balance trends and timelessness is to choose classic pieces that can be accessorized with more contemporary items. For example, a well-fitted blazer or a little black dress can be a timeless base, while statement jewellery or bold shoes can add a modern twist.

Additionally, consider the colours and prints of your chosen outfit. While bold prints and patterns may be trendy, they can quickly become outdated. Instead, opt for solid colours or classic prints like stripes or polka dots, which will remain timeless and easily incorporate into any current trend.

When in doubt, consider what would look stylish in photographs ten years from now. A classic outfit that looks great in a black-and-white photo will outlast any trend. Remember, the goal is to create timeless images you’ll cherish as printed wall art on your wall for years.

Personalize Your Outfit

This is your chance to showcase your unique style and personality. Whether working with Benson Photography in the beautiful Vaal Triangle or elsewhere, you can make your outfit your own by adding personal touches and accessories.

Consider incorporating items that hold sentimental value, such as a family heirloom or a piece of jewellery from a loved one. These personal items can add depth and meaning to your portraits.

Don’t be afraid to mix and match different styles and patterns to create a look that’s uniquely you. Your outfit should make you feel confident and comfortable and reflect your interests and personality.

Remember, your portrait photo session is all about capturing your best self. By personalizing your outfit, you can ensure that your photos are beautiful and truly unique.

Conclusion

As a professional photographer, I know the importance of selecting the perfect outfit for a portrait session. By considering the overall look of the photo, choosing colours that complement your skin tone, and paying attention to the location, accessorizing, and grooming, you can ensure that you look your best and create timeless images that you’ll cherish for years to come.

Coordinating outfits for your entire family, considering props that add personality to your photos, and balancing trends with timelessness are essential. Remember to personalize your outfit and make it your own, expressing your unique personality and style.

At Benson Photography, located in the picturesque Vaal Triangle and beyond, I work closely with my clients to perfect their portrait session outfits, creating stunning images that capture their best selves. Contact us today to schedule your next portrait session, and let us help you optimize your look for truly remarkable photos.

FAQ

How important is choosing the right outfit for a portrait photo session?

Choosing the right outfit for a portrait photo session is crucial as it can greatly impact your photos’ overall look and feel. The right outfit enhances your features, complements your skin tone, and helps you feel confident and comfortable during the session.

Should I consider the overall look of the photo when selecting my outfit?

Yes, it is essential to consider the overall look and mood you want to achieve in your photos. Think about the style and theme of the session and choose clothing that aligns with that vision. Feel free to discuss the overall look and feel that you may be going for with me. I am just a phone call away.

Selecting the location

Although the location is important, if you have a specific location in mind, contact me, I may know of a few options you have not considered.

Can props be incorporated into portrait sessions?

Yes, props can add depth and personality to your portrait photos. Consider incorporating relevant props that reflect your interests, hobbies, or the session’s theme. Feel free to discuss any props which you may have in mind, as I may have some already that may align with your vision.

How important is it to dress for comfort and confidence?

Feeling comfortable and confident in what you’re wearing is crucial during a portrait session. Choose clothing that fits well and makes you feel good about yourself. When you’re comfortable and confident, it shines through in your photos.

Should I pay attention to grooming and hairstyling for a portrait photo session?

Along with your outfit choice, grooming and hairstyling affect how you look in your portrait photos. Ensure you’re well-groomed, and consider styling your hair to complement your overall look. It’s worth investing time in your grooming routine to ensure you look your best.

Can I personalize my outfit for a portrait photo session?

Absolutely! Your portrait session is an opportunity to express your personality and individuality. Add personal touches to your outfit, such as wearing your favourite accessories or incorporating clothing items that hold sentimental value. Make your outfit uniquely yours.