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Dress Right: Winning Portrait Photo Shoot Tips

28/02/2024 Posted by Martin Bamford Ideas, Photography

Headshot photography, done well, should reflect the very essence of who you are.

When I create photographs for business owners and solopreneurs, I always aim to represent their individuality and style.

Whether a headshot for a professional LinkedIn profile or a portrait for the living room wall, the right outfit can help transform a simple photograph into a masterpiece.

How do you decide what to wear when you visit my studio for your photoshoot? How do you ensure you look your absolute best?

Fear not; I’ve compiled five practical tips to guide both men and women when selecting their perfect attire for their upcoming photo session.

1 – Choose solids over patterns

Patterns can be fun and expressive, but solid colours work best for photographs. Wearing solid colours helps keep the focus on you rather than diverting attention to your outfit.

A solid-coloured, well-fitted shift can help create a timeless look for men. Women might consider a simple dress or top with minimal distractions.

If you’re feeling adventurous, textures can help add depth to your outfit choice without the busyness of patterns.

2 – Consider the background

What does the background selection have to do with your choice of outfit? Everything!

If we’re shooting together outdoors in a place with a lot of green foliage, avoid wearing a green outfit, or you might disappear into the background!

I can share images of my various backdrop colours for studio shoots, so you can choose an outfit to contrast accordingly.

Generally, you want to wear something that contrasts nicely with the chosen background to ensure you stand out.

3 – Accessorise wisely

Accessories can add a touch of personality to your photo, but the rule is ‘less is more’.

Wearing a statement necklace or a classic watch can complement your look without overwhelming it.

For both men and women, it’s best to choose accessories that enhance rather than dominate.

4 – Fit is key

An outfit that fits well will look better and make you feel more confident. Tailored clothing that accentuates your shape works wonders in photographs.

Avoid overly baggy or tight-fitting clothes, as they can distort your body shape in photos. Too tight or too loose are both best avoided.

For women, a cinched waist can highlight your silhouette, and men can opt for a tailored blazer to define their structure.

5 – Reflect your personality

The photos I create should be a reflection of who you are. Choose outfits that speak to your personal style.

If you’re not comfortable wearing a suit (and personally, I hate wearing them!), don’t feel compelled to don one just for the sake of the shoot.

Similarly, if you’re a fan of vibrant colours, find a way to incorporate them into your outfit choice.

The key is to feel confident and comfortable in your chosen outfit.

Are you ready to start shooting?

Now that you’re armed with these tips, you’re well on the way to creating a stunning visual representation of yourself.

The right outfit will help you look great on camera and also boost your confidence in front of the lens.

Do get in touch if you’ve been putting off a photoshoot or need further guidance and inspiration.

We can work together to craft a professional or personal portrait that you’ll be proud to display for years to come!

Struggling with what to wear for a photo shoot? 🤔 Our new post has you covered with practical tips for both men and women. Look your best, feel your best! #PhotoShootFashion #StyleGuide ➡️ Share on X

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About Martin Bamford

Hi, I'm Martin, a portrait, event and brand photographer in Cranleigh, working with individuals and small businesses across the Surrey Hills. I've taken photos for more than 25 years, and became a full-time photographer following a successful career as a Chartered Financial Planner.

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