Clothing Guide

What should I wear?

Basic rules to follow when preparing for your portrait.

Simplicity

Clothing should be plain and simple–no patterns, stripes, bold designs or anything that distracts from your face.

Timelessness

Classical styles that stay in fashion year after year are recommended.  Trendy clothing will tend to outdate your portrait, however, if a more trendy look is your desire, we can accommodate you.

The focal point

of your portrait - Should be the brightest or darkest point in your portraits. Simplify by having one main focal point — YOU! The focal point is where your eyes travel first and should hold your attention.

Coordinate

Try to be consistent with others in your portrait. Use the same color, or try staying with the same tonal values.

Jewelry

When doing individual portrait (close up), wear short, gold or silver necklace; pearls (collar bone length); for earrings, simple loops or pearls are recommended. In family groups it’s not as important but still recommended.

Classical Portraits

Wear solid colors or subtle patterns, they are submissive and noncompetitive.  Deep rich tones such as navy, dark forest green, deep maroon, burgundy,  black, or charcoal with subtle accents of jewelry, ties, etc.  We recommend V-neck dress or tops for women.

High Key

All white or light portraits – White, off white, or pastel color clothing on a light or white background.

Best combination for high key shown above.

 

Outdoor Portraits

Earth tones, solid colors such as dark navy, green or maroon or very subtle patterns.  For a more casual look, denim looks great, dark cotton slacks and shirt with the same tonal value.  Avoid white and black clothing, unless you are working with a pre-planned theme, such as a golden wheat field for white or black with a granite rock background.  Avoid white socks and shoes. Long sleeves recommended.

Formal family Groups

For the studio, generally use medium to deep tones.  Match the others in the group, Long sleeves, dark slacks, dark skirts, dark shoes, and darker stockings usually are best.

If you have any questions please call 1.801.785.8317