What to Wear
Ah yes…what to wear to your session. Sometimes this is the biggest point of stress when preparing for a photo shoot. Here are a few suggestions to help you when picking out your outfits for picture day. First of all keep in mind, suggestions! no rules ok. Only guidelines. Based on my experience and what I have seen work and look really nice in pictures ok that’s all :)
I will bring a pop up changing tent if there isn’t anywhere to change. Also, many ask how many changes they can do. I say as many as you want in the time allowed with your session. I suggest two maybe even three different looks. This could be simply adding a hat or changing just your top. usually clients like to have a casual look and a dressy look. Often this is even just riding clothes and then a simple dress or cute top.
Colors and Patterns //
Consider wearing solid colored clothing. This will keep the focus on your face and help you stand out from the background. Intricate patterns can distract from your face and look a bit much in certain settings. Polka dots and larger floral prints can be the exception.
Muted tones that are a bit subdued will help you be the subject, not your clothes. Bright colors project (especially neons, oranges, reds, and yellows), which can also makes you look larger. Choose similar tones for your top and bottom (both dark or both light) so that one doesn’t look bigger than the other. White top, dark pants will make your top look bigger. White pants, dark top will make your butt look bigger.
For family wanting to coordinate, choose 1-3 colors for your group portrait. Ones with similar tones that go nicely together and have everyone work within that color palette. For example: dark green, navy, and burgundy (all dark jewel tones) OR tan, a lighter olive green, and denims (all lighter, softer tones). so that we see the people first and your portrait looks stunning.
Shoes //
This is going to depend on your outfit but I always like to throw this in. If you are considering wearing heels, bring some flats too. You can put on your heels once we set up the horse and so you don’t hurt your footsies. I never recommend barefoot or sandals around a horse but clients do it all the time. That is at your discretion.
Jewelry and Accessories //
Keep jewelry simple because too much draws attention from your face. This is especially true for necklaces. Now…if you are going for a western turquoise or boho look then layer up! This only if you are going for a styled look but a good rule of thumb is to keep it sweet and simple.
Hair //
Do your hair the way you’d normally do it while wearing the clothes you choose. No fancy up dos with jeans, no pony tails with evening gowns, etc. If getting a haircut or new hairdo, make your appointment at least 2 weeks prior to your portrait session. Fresh hair cuts rarely look their best the same or next day. Ladies need time to practice working it, men need it to grow out just a little. Allow some time to live with your new look before your session.
Makeup //
Make sure your skin is matte. Shiny skin can make you look like you have really oily skin, reflect too much light, and be distracting. A little highlighter is ok but don’t over do it. Apply more blush, contouring, brows and lips than you usually would. Lack of color will make you look washed out. Make your eyes pop by applying eyeliner on the top and bottom lashes. At least two coats of mascara or false lashes are a must. You really connect with your audience when your eyes stand out. OR you can just go for a natural look! totally up to you!
In Conclusion //
If none of this advise sounds like your style and you want to wear what ever the heck you want like Allison did here then YAZ girl lets do it! I’m not about to put you in any box. You do you and my job is to capture just that.
I am a Pinterest addict and always looking for inspiration. Check out my ‘wardrobe inspo’ board to get you thinking about what you might like to wear for your session.
