“Help! What should I wear to my photoshoot?”
It’s a question I’m frequently asked by my clients, and with good reason.
Choosing the right outfit can make a huge difference in how comfortable you feel, how confident you appear, and, ultimately, how much you’ll love your finished portraits. While it can feel overwhelming, deciding what to wear doesn’t have to be stressful.
As a professional portrait photographer based in Cranleigh, capturing portraits of individuals and small businesses throughout the Surrey Hills, I’ve guided countless people in choosing outfits that perfectly complement their photoshoots.
Here are my top tips to help you select the ideal attire for your portrait session, ensuring you look and feel your absolute best.
1 – Comfort is Essential
The first rule of picking your outfit is simple: wear something that makes you feel comfortable and confident. If your clothing feels restrictive, itchy, or too formal, you’ll likely appear uncomfortable or stiff in your photos.
Choose outfits made from fabrics that you enjoy wearing and styles that naturally reflect your personality. Comfort equals confidence—and confidence shines through beautifully in portraits.
2 – Keep It Timeless, Not Trendy
Portraits last a lifetime, so choosing classic, timeless clothing is a great way to ensure your portraits remain stylish for years to come.
While trendy outfits can look great today, they often date your photos quickly. Instead, opt for simple, elegant designs and neutral or muted tones.
Well-fitted jeans, tailored trousers, dresses or skirts in classic cuts, or casual shirts and jumpers are all excellent choices.
3 – Avoid Busy Patterns and Logos
Patterns and bold graphics may be striking in everyday life, but in photographs, they can distract attention away from your face—the most important part of a portrait.
Avoid busy or very large prints, complicated patterns, or prominent logos. Instead, opt for solid colours, subtle textures, or understated patterns, as these photograph beautifully, ensuring attention remains where it belongs: on you.
4 – Consider Your Colour Choices
The colours you choose to wear can dramatically influence the mood and impact of your portraits.
Softer, neutral colours—like creams, greys, pastels, and earth tones—tend to be universally flattering and create a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Deeper, richer colours like navy, burgundy, or forest green can add depth and sophistication.
It’s wise to avoid neon or very bright colours, as they often reflect onto your skin and can make your complexion appear unnatural.
If you’re unsure, selecting colours that complement your skin tone, hair, and eyes will always deliver a flattering result. Feel free to bring a couple of different outfits to your photoshoot—I’m always happy to advise on the spot!
5 – Layer Your Outfit for Versatility
Layers add visual interest and depth to your photos, giving you several looks within a single session.
Think about adding jackets, cardigans, scarves, or vests, which can easily be added or removed to create different styles or moods. This approach not only makes your images more varied but also helps you quickly adapt if the weather changes during an outdoor shoot.
6 – Think About the Setting
Consider the location or theme of your photoshoot when choosing your outfit.
If we’re photographing outdoors in the beautiful Surrey Hills countryside or somewhere like Knowle Park in Cranleigh, a casual, natural style often suits best—think comfortable jeans, jumpers, boots, and natural fabrics.
For more formal portraits or professional headshots, smarter business-casual attire is typically appropriate.
Matching your outfit to the location helps ensure your portraits look harmonious, authentic, and beautifully coordinated with the environment.
7 – Don’t Overlook the Small Details
Small details can make a significant difference in your portraits. Ensure your clothing is freshly ironed, wrinkle-free, and lint-free before your session.
Check for loose threads, stains, or missing buttons. These minor issues can become glaringly apparent in high-quality portraits.
Also, keep jewellery simple and classic; less is typically more. Statement pieces can work well, but only if they complement your overall look without overwhelming the photograph.
In Summary: What to Wear for Perfect Portraits
To quickly recap:
-Comfort first: Wear clothing that feels great.
-Choose timeless styles: Avoid overly trendy outfits.
-Solid colours: Skip distracting patterns and large logos.
-Flattering colours: Neutral, muted, or rich tones work best.
-Layers: Add versatility and visual interest.
-Consider the setting: Match your style to your shoot location.
-Pay attention to details: Keep everything tidy and tasteful.
By following these simple, practical guidelines, you can confidently choose outfits that help you look your very best in your portraits.
Ready to Capture Portraits You’ll Love?
Now that you have these helpful style tips, you’re ready to look and feel fantastic in front of the camera.
I’d love to hear from you if you’re based around Cranleigh or the Surrey Hills and interested in creating stunning portraits.
Get in touch today to discuss your next portrait session—and let’s capture photos you’ll treasure forever.
