I know you’ve heard me talk about Wardrobe “no nos” before but I really want to make sure my clients look their very best in their portraits. These tips and suggestions apply to everyone in front of a camera. Models, Children, High School Seniors, Executives, etc.
It doesn’t matter how great our Photographer is if you don’t wear wardrobe that is flattering to your body type. Yes, the better the Photographer the more likely they will be able to make adjustments for poor (uninformed) clothing selections. Beautiful lighting, smart lens selections and a twist and turn of the client’s pose can do wonders. However a few simple tips can make an average portrait into a masterpiece.

dark wardrobe is slimming
Wardrobe Tip #1 – Dark Colors will make you look slimmer. Light colors are to be worn with caution. Light colors appear to make whatever they cover to look many sizes larger. I recommend light colors (white, yellow, etc) in just those special times you want a part of your body to look bigger than it actually is. I could explain the psychology of this along with how the camera records objects in just 2 dimensions but that isn’t necessary today. Simply do not wear light colors without a specific purpose.

make sure that stripe tops work in your favor

dresses - skirts and tops look best when the waist line is at your natural waist
Wardrobe Tip #4 – Say NO to clunky shoes. In other words wear shoes that are slim, delicate, and darkish in color. I know that shoes styles are personal and for some these styles define ones personality. I love incorporating the right pair of shoes into a portrait. This can be a blast and make for a great and very exciting portrait. Just make sure you don’t wear a shoe that simply takes over your foot adding what appears to be several un-necessary pounds of fabric and leather. Even an ankle strap high heel is going to make your legs appear a couple inches shorter than a non ankle strap heel. Anything that disrupts the continuous line of your leg shortens the leg’s length and shape.

long sleeves bring all the attention to your face
Let me close by saying that it is best to bring lots of wardrobe selections to any photo session. Let your Photographer offer suggestions. You really can’t bring too many choices.
Feel free to send me comments and any questions you may have about wardrobe. I’m happy to offer my experience in these matters.
Live – Love – Laugh
Don Sparks