When getting ready for an outdoor session with a professional photographer – it is not always easy to decide on what to wear. You don’t want to look overly dressy but you don’t want to be super casual either. What if your favorite top looks strange on camera? How do you decide between jeans or a dress?
While there are no hard and fast rules to what looks best in an outdoor photo shoot, there are a few guidelines that everyone should know before going to a session that will make everyone look good and feel good in front of the camera.
Florida is called the Sunshine State for good reason. And while the ample sunshine makes for beautiful photographs outside – it can very quickly beat down anyone who stays in direct sun light for multiple hours. That along with humidity at certain times of the year can make for a very hot shoot very fast.
First of all – be sure to wear sunscreen, especially on your face and arms! And bring a bottle along to the shoot to reapply every few hours, depending on the length of the shoot. The Florida sun does not need much time to cause damage to the skin.
The sun and the heat also mean that light clothing is your friend at a photo shoot outside. Think linens and cottons! Leave behind clothing made out of synthetic fibers like polyester. And avoid fabric that will not breathe in the heat – such as silk or velvet.
Light, breathable clothing will keep you cooler, longer out in the sun. You’ll not only feel more comfortable, but you will look more comfortable and happier in your photos!
It’s important to remember that your clothing is not the most important thing in a photograph. You are with a professional photographer to take pictures of you and your loved ones! The focus should be on the faces in the pictures – and your clothing should not steal that focus.
Avoid clothing with loud patterns. Simple stripes or delicate polka dots can of course look lovely on camera! But keep such patterns very minimal, and in neutral colors. Paisley and plaid, on the other hand, can be left at home.
Similarly, don’t wear clothing and accessories with a lot of sparkly or shiny detailing to them. Metals, gems and other reflective pieces can not only distract from your face and your surroundings, but they can also be difficult to capture nicely on camera. Follow the rule of keeping your outfit fairly simple (and shine free)!
However, the most important rule of all may be to pick an outfit that makes you feel good and comfortable. Wearing clothing that reflects your taste and personality will make for the best photographs!
It can be tempting to dress way fancier than you usually do or go out and buy completely new outfits for everyone in the photograph. And while new, sometimes coordinated clothing can sometimes be a fun direction for a photo shoot – it is also absolutely perfect to wear what makes you and your loved ones feel your best!
South Florida offers some gorgeous settings for outdoor photographs – be sure to dress for success! Get in touch with me today to talk more about how to use the great outdoors to best capture the beauty of you and the ones you love!
