What to Wear for Your Photoshoot (Without Looking Like a Walking Optical Illusion)
So, you’ve booked (or are thinking about booking 👀) a session with a professional photographer near you. First off—yay, good choice. But now comes the real question: what on earth are you supposed to wear?
If your first instinct is to grab whatever’s hanging clean in your closet, stop right there. Choosing the right outfit can make the difference between “Wow, that’s frame-worthy” and “Why do my clothes look like they’re vibrating?”
Let’s break it down.
Color & Tone: The Unsung Heroes of Great Photos
Think of your outfit as the background music in a movie—it sets the mood.
Families: Pick a color palette, not identical uniforms. Matching shirts scream 2003. Coordinating tones? Chef’s kiss.
Couples: Earthy neutrals (cream, sage, rust, navy) look timeless and romantic. Bonus: they photograph beautifully in fall sessions.
Individuals: Want to pop? Jewel tones like emerald green or royal blue give you that “wow” factor. Want subtle elegance? Go for muted tones.
👉 Pro tip: neon colors will make you glow, but not in the “angelic halo” kind of way—more in the “radioactive highlighter” way.
Patterns, Prints & Why Stripes are Sneaky
A beautiful beach family photo featuring coordinated outfits in soft blue tones. The solid colors and simple patterns photograph perfectly, avoiding small stripes or thin lines that can distract, creating a clean, timeless look ideal for photography sessions.
Tiny patterns and skinny stripes are the silent saboteurs of photoshoots. Cameras don’t love them—they create weird effects (called moiré, if you want to get nerdy). In simpler terms, your shirt might look like it’s buzzing. Not cute.
If you must wear a pattern, think big and bold: chunky plaids, floral prints with space to breathe. Leave the pinstripes for board meetings.
The Illusion Game: Look Slimmer Without a Gym Membership
Outdoor portrait of a man in a solid burgundy shirt that creates a slimming effect. The rich, dark tone flatters the subject while keeping the focus on his face, making it an excellent wardrobe choice for professional photography sessions.
Clothes can do magic tricks for you:
Dark colors slim, light colors highlight. Wear darker tones on areas you want to downplay.
Vertical lines elongate. Think long cardigans, dresses with structure, or layered outfits.
Fitted, not tight. Baggy clothes add bulk, super-tight clothes highlight every line. Find that happy medium.
Layers are your friend. A jacket, scarf, or cardigan adds depth (and bonus: something to do with your hands in photos).
Bonus Tips
Engagement photo featuring a couple in simple, neutral outfits that highlight elegance without overdoing accessories. The focus remains on the bride-to-be’s engagement ring, making it the standout detail in this timeless and intimate shot.
Shoes matter. If your kids are in matching neutrals but wearing neon Crocs… we’ll notice.
Accessories are great—just don’t overdo it. You don’t want your necklace to steal the spotlight from your smile.
Comfort is key. If you hate your outfit, it’ll show on your face.
Ready for Your Mini-Fall Session?
Romantic beach photo of a couple holding hands at sunset. The warm golden light creates a dreamy, intimate atmosphere, perfect for engagement or couples photography by the ocean.
The best part? I take care of the where and the how, you just bring the who (and now, the what to wear).
🍂 My fall mini-sessions are open now—the perfect excuse to grab those frame-worthy family photos before the holidays. Spots go quickly (seriously, faster than pumpkin spice lattes in September).
So go ahead, pick your palette, skip the tiny stripes, and let’s create some magic together.
👉 Click below to book your mini-fall session with your favorite Clearwater/Tampa/St. Pete photographer!
