TIPS ON CLOTHING
The goal of any fine portrait is to direct the viewer's attention to the face or faces in the portrait. For your best portraits, clothing coordination is critical. Medium to dark clothes (Brown, rust, burgundy, greens and blues) are better for outdoor portraits on bright sunny days or against darker backdrops (i.e. black, blue, or gray) or for indoor party shots. Darker shades are more slimming. One is reminded of the old adage �the camera will add 10 pounds.�
Pastel or white clothing can produce striking results against a white backdrop. Avoid light colors which are close to skin tones (i.e. beige, tan, peach, light pinks, cream and yellow). Solid colors are preferred; do not wear brilliant stripes, checks, plaids or too �busy� of a print. They simply do not photograph well and distract from the photograph. Adults should wear sleeves and long pants. When arms and legs are exposed and there�s lots of skin visible, it can be a distraction from the main focal point of the photo � the face. Very simple garments and accessories are always best.
One exception to the black/dark top rule is dependent upon the complexion of the person. A very fair complexion with a very dark top can be too much of a contrast and when shooting someone with dark skin tones dark clothing can mean not enough contrast.
In a family group, proper clothing coordination is critical. In full length photographs, make sure everything coordinates right down to your socks and shoes. AVOID �rainbow� family clothing with everyone in a different color. Couples or small groups should choose simple garments within the same tonal ranges so that no single member of the family stands out because the clothing is too light or bright as compared to the rest of the group. Clothing that blends harmoniously creates timeless portraiture because the viewer's eye goes directly to the faces.
Some Repetition of Tips On Clothing Style And Accessories:
- Again, very simple garments always photograph best.
- Again, long sleeves are essential for teens and adults, as bare arms call attention to themselves and will overpower the face.
- Turtle necks or V-necks are flattering provided that neither is exaggerated in style. Avoid very wide or particularly deep V-neck garments as well as bulky cowl neck sweaters that completely hide the neck.
- Women being photographed in full length should wear long skirts, pants, or dark stockings in order to keep the eye from being directed toward the legs and away from the face.
- If feet are to show in the portrait, make certain shoes and stockings are in keeping with the visual intent of the portrait.
- Men should have their hair cut about one week before the portrait session. Women should be photographed whenever they are happiest with their hair in relation to the time it is styled.
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