What to wear at your next photoshoot

We've all been there, you have an event or photoshoot where we have no idea what to wear. Where do you even begin? Go for some casual basics? Pick something totally wild and out there? I mean, a photoshoot is something special that you don't get to do every day and you should definitely be thoughtful in what you wear for it.

There's a lot that can go into planning for a photoshoot. Some photoshoots have a stylist on set to style you and you might not have a say in the look. Some photoshoots have a specific vision between both the photographer and the model. But, if you've hired a photographer for a personal shoot, the outfit is usually up to you to pick out. Although, most photographers, myself included, would love to see what outfits you have in mind and even give you some pointers as to what would look more flattering on camera. For example, some photographers love neutral colors because that compliments their editing style, while other photographers like big and bold colors for their editing style. Make sure you know your photographers' style! I can't stress that enough. If you're looking to update your modeling portfolio with some high fashion shots and you've chosen to work with a photographer who has a dreamy, frolic through a field of flowers type of vibe, you might not get the outcome you had planned. There are so many things to take into consideration when it comes to outfits and photoshoots! Don't be scared to seek inspiration for outfits on other apps like Pinterest or Instagram or even asking your photographer for some simple suggestions to help get the ideas flowing.

Now that you've picked a photographer that suits your style in mind, let's get down to business and talk about what to wear!

A. The Basics:

You can't go wrong with some simple outfits that you can mix and match. If you're looking to get into modeling these "basics" are perfect for updating your comp card or modeling portfolio.

Here's what I would include in a "basics" outfit. A white top, a black top, blue jeans, black pants, and both a flat shoe and one with a heel. You want to make sure that the items you pick are ones you feel comfortable and confident in! Don't pick something overly tight or too small if it makes you uncomfortable. In my eyes, you can't go wrong with a loose white button up and blue jeans. (However, If you're updating your comp card you will want to wear clothes that fit snug).

Or maybe you'd prefer a neutral dress or a plain romper. Aim for something with minimal patterns as patterns can make a photo really busy and might take away from YOU as the subject. But even with basics, don't be afraid to mix textures! A big chunky sweater paired with a soft flowing skirt, or maybe a silk blouse mixed with your favorite jeans.

Check out this gallery for an example of some really good basics: https://kristengphotography.pixieset.com/lauren-1/

B. The Bold:

Alright, so you've decided you want your photoshoot to really pop. You already know the photographer you've chosen is going to mesh well with a bold outfit choice. Here are my suggestions:

Go through your closet and pick your favorite pieces. Lay them out and see what looks good with each other. What colors and patterns mix, which ones really stand out together. OR if you're looking to go out and buy a specific outfit my best advice is to browse an app like Pinterest or instagram and seek inspiration for outfits on there. If you want to pick something bold, don't be scared to mix-and-match patterns, textures, colors! And if you're really struggling, contact your photographer with outfit options OR if you have extra time for wardrobe changes at your shoot, be sure to bring lots of options and the photographer can help piece a look together with you, however, be sure your photographer knows you're bringing outfit options before the shoot! This photoshoot I had with Megan is the perfect example of a bold outfit, you can check out the whole gallery by clicking here: https://kristengphotography.pixieset.com/meganspoolparty/

For this shoot We brought a whole bunch of outfits and pieced this together at the beginning of the shoot.

c. Photographer's Suggestions:

Outfit options are totally subjective, I can only type out so many outfit options to suggest, but really it all comes down to you, the model, and your photographer. I love a good capsule wardrobe, something you can mix-and-match pieces to create a whole new outfit. I always suggest to the models I work with, to bring a look they feel confident in, but if they have absolutely no idea I like to suggest bringing a few staple pieces (like a loose white button up), and piecing it together with some fun accessories. So let's say you picked a loose white button up, unbutton the first or second button from the top, roll the sleeves a few times for a casual look, pair it with some jeans, and tie the look together with some funky sunglasses or a colorful scar to tie around your neck or hair, and top it off with some fun shoes or heels.

I like to suggest a theme or an overall vibe for my photoshoots which helps when creating an outfit. So for example, say we want to go for a 70's esque photoshoot, that makes styling easy because you know you want to go for bigger hair, bolder makeup, and bold colors and patterns. Or say we wanted to go for a look that's centered around one piece of clothing (for example, a cool coat). Then you just need to pick a simple outfit to wear under it. Piecing an outfit together based on something about the shoot can help direct you for choosing the look. Piece it together like a puzzle! Start with something (like the coat), then add on to it and slowly build it up and make it as casual or as bold as you want! I'm sure your photographer would be more than happy to help you piece your outfit together! You'd be surprised how much we as photographers like having a say in your outfit choice for your shoot, we've got your best interests at heart and want to make sure you look and feel your most confident self.

Now with all of that being said, truthfully, you need to pick an outfit that makes you feel comfortable, confident, and ready to conquer your photoshoot. Don't let outside opinions deter you from wearing something fun and funky even if it goes against the advice I've given, because at the end of the day, if you've hired a photographer, this shoot is about you and you need to feel confident in yourself first and foremost.

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