What to wear guide
There’s nothing worse than staring into your wardrobe and thinking, "I have nothing to wear!" Getting dressed can feel like a chore, especially when preparing for a photoshoot. With constantly changing trends (we’re looking at you, flared jeans!), choosing an outfit for your couple or family photoshoot can be overwhelming. Common questions like "Do we need to match?" "What colours complement each other?" and "Should I wear a dress or pants?" are all valid when you’re investing in capturing memories on camera.
The good news is that selecting the right outfit for your photoshoot doesn't need to be stressful. With a little preparation and guidance, you’ll be able to elevate your photos and feel confident on shoot day. Whether you’re planning to climb a mountain, splash in the water, chase golden hour light, snuggle on the couch, or bake your favourite cookies, we want you to look and feel incredible.
Be Yourself: Comfort is Key
The most important thing is that you feel comfortable and confident in what you wear. While trends can be tempting, remember that the focus of the photoshoot is on you and your loved ones - not necessarily your outfit. Wear something that makes you feel amazing. Don’t feel pressured to buy new clothes unless you really want to; your well-worn, “broken-in” clothes will make you feel at ease and look natural in photos.
Choosing Colours and Patterns for Photos
The right colours and patterns can enhance your photographs. Stick to softer, neutral tones that complement the surroundings, whether you’re outdoors or in a cozy indoor setting. Avoid bold stripes, florals, polka dots, or graphic logos, as they can distract from the main focus of your photos. If bold colours and patterns are your style, we can help you make it work!
Best Colours for Photoshoots
Neutral, earthy, and soft tones are always a great choice. These colours go beautifully with any backdrop - whether it’s a sunrise, sunset, beach, mountain, or cityscape. If you want to incorporate brighter colours, think of mellow or dark shades instead of loud, vibrant hues. Don’t be afraid of colour, but keep it subtle to ensure your photos feel timeless.
Colour Combos to Consider:
Greys: Charcoal // Light Grey // Silver
Browns: Caramel // Dark Brown
Blues: Navy // Baby Blue // Grey-blue
Warm Tones: Mustard // Rust Orange // Burgundy // Light Pink
Greens: Dark Forest Green // Khaki
Patterns and Prints
Patterns can add a beautiful contrast to your photos, but it’s important to choose smaller, softer prints that won’t overpower the image. The key is to balance your look with your environment. Here are some patterns we love:
Small florals
Soft strokes or swirls
Gingham or subtle checks
Thin, complementary stripes
Patterns to avoid include:
Bold stripes or florals
Large graphic designs
Logos and slogans
Textures and Layers for Added Movement
Textures and layers can bring your photos to life by adding movement and dimension. A flowing skirt, an open jacket, or a scarf caught in the wind can create a beautiful, dynamic shot. Here are some great layering ideas:
T-shirt with an open long-sleeve shirt rolled at the sleeves
Shirt tied around the waist
Light jacket, bomber, or blazer over a shirt
Flowing skirts or cardigans for wind movement
Clothing with subtle ruffles or tassel details
Bring Outfit Options
We recommend bringing a few different outfits to your shoot. This allows us to switch things up depending on the location and vibe. A full outfit, an additional top, and layering pieces (like jackets or cardigans) can give you flexibility for a variety of looks.
Comfort Over Style
If an outfit is uncomfortable or restrictive, it will show in the photos. If something feels too tight, too loose, or too high (looking at you, uncomfortable shoes!), it’s best to skip it. The goal is to capture you and your loved ones looking natural, so make sure you’re comfortable in what you wear.
Suit Your Surroundings
Consider the environment when choosing your outfit. Whether you’re hiking a mountain or lounging at home, your outfit should match the setting. If we’re at the beach, go barefoot and bring easy-to-slip-on shoes for transitions. If we’re outdoors, make sure to wear comfortable, weather-appropriate footwear.
Weather Considerations
If it’s sunny and warm, light layers and breathable fabrics are key. For cooler weather, longer sleeves and darker tones work well, adding a cozy vibe to the photos. Be prepared to adjust based on the forecast, and bring extra layers to stay comfortable.
Feel Good in Your Skin
While you might be stepping out of your comfort zone for the shoot location or activity, make sure you’re comfortable in what you’re wearing. The more relaxed and confident you feel, the better your photos will turn out!
Hair, Makeup, and Grooming
Feeling good about your appearance is crucial for your photoshoot. If you prefer a full face of makeup, go for it! If you love your natural look, that’s perfect too. We aim to capture your best self, so don’t feel the need to make drastic changes. A little grooming - like taming your hair or adding a touch of makeup - can help you feel confident. Don’t forget to bring a hairbrush, hair ties, and product for quick touch-ups throughout the day.
Props for Extra Personality
Props can add a fun element to your photos, giving you something to interact with while also making your shoot feel unique. Whether it’s a hat, a picnic basket, or your dog, props can help set the scene and make the experience more relaxed. Here are a few ideas for props:
Hats, scarves, or blankets
A picnic blanket or basket (snacks encouraged!)
Cushions, an umbrella, or a beach ball
Something sentimental, like a family heirloom
Your beloved pet!
The Finishing Touch: Prepare Your Clothes
Make sure your clothes are clean, wrinkle-free, and ready to go for your photoshoot. We recommend ironing or steaming your outfit a day or two before your session. If possible, bring your clothes in a garment bag, and keep shoes and accessories in a spacious bag.
Get Ready to Shine on Your Photoshoot Day!
Choosing the right outfit doesn’t have to be stressful! With a little planning, you’ll feel comfortable, confident, and look amazing in your photos. If you need any help choosing your outfits, don’t hesitate to reach out! We’re here to offer advice and help you pick looks that suit your style and the photoshoot vibe.
We can’t wait to capture stunning memories with you - let’s get planning!