How to Coordinate Outfits to Get the Best Look in Your Photos
A Photographer’s Perspective: How to Coordinate Outfits to Get the Best Look in Your Photos. “I have nothing to wear!” We all have days where we approach the endless voids of our closets and just cannot decide what outfit to put on. And planning your clothing for a photo session is no exception! Whether you’re gathering together to take family photos or capturing a special moment in your life like an engagement, coordinating outfits can seem pretty daunting. It’s difficult to tell how clothing will look in front of a camera and whether you’ll be happy with the end results. Some fabrics and colors looks better than others. But never fear, here are a few simple tips you can follow to help make coordinating outfits a breeze!
Choose Similar Over Matching Clothing
Feel free to be creative with your outfits! Pictures actually come out better when the group isn’t all wearing the same thing. If you’re not sure where to start, a great rule of thumb is to pick 2-4 colors that go well together and coordinate clothing around this color scheme. Try to avoid solid white or black, as these colors can wash you out or result in a loss of detail in your photos. Here is a super helpful list of colors that photograph well together. If you do plan outfits that have the same or similar colors, encourage each person to wear a different texture of fabric. This allows the fabrics to pick up independently in pictures and create some separation.
Be Conscious of Patterns
This is not to say that patterned clothing is off limits! Having a nice pattern in the mix can add visual interest. However, avoid choosing patterned outfits for every person being photographed. This can add too much contrast and be distracting in your final image. On the other hand, a single patterned clothing item photographed next to solid colors can look great! This includes subtle spots, stripes, and plaids. So if one of your family members wants to wear that flannel shirt they just can’t get enough of, then all power to them!
Consider Your Location
It’s important to take your session location into account when thinking about outfit choices. You want to make sure you don’t blend in with your background. Contrasting and complementary colors will be your best friend! Think about what colors will be prominent in the background of your photos and coordinate outfits based on that. For example, if you’re taking pictures in front of snow, you won’t want to wear white clothing that makes you blend in with your surroundings. Or if you plan to be photographed in front of a forest of pine trees, avoid incorporating too much green or brown into your outfits.
Don’t Forget Accessories!
When it comes to accessories, don’t be afraid to add some personality and creativity! Accessories can take your outfit up a notch, making it look even more complete and put-together. You can incorporate anything from a charming necklace or bracelet to a cute scarf that keeps you warm during a winter session! Plus, you can use accessories as a focal point for some of your photos or as props for a unique twist. The possibilities are endless, so have fun with it!
The Best Outfits Make You Feel Comfortable and Confident
Of all the advice I have to give about coordinating outfits for photos, the most important is to wear clothing that makes you feel good about yourself. Each person in your session should pick an outfit that they feel comfortable and confident in. Your photos should reflect your personality and the unique person that is YOU! If you’re happy with how you look in your photos, that is all that matters in the end. As a photographer, I couldn’t ask for anything more!
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