Whether you’re a small business owner looking to update your team’s headshots, a corporate group preparing for branding photos, or a family planning a cherished portrait session, one question inevitably arises: What should we wear? Choosing the right outfits for a photoshoot can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. The right clothing choices can elevate your photos, ensuring they look polished, cohesive, and timeless.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best outfits for different photoshoots and share helpful tips to ensure everyone looks and feels their best in front of the camera.
Why Outfit Selection Matters for a Photoshoot
Outfit selection plays a crucial role in creating visually appealing photos. Clothing affects how light interacts with the subject, sets the tone of the images and reflects the personality of the individual, family or brand. Well-planned outfits can:
- Ensure the focus remains on the people, not distractions.
- Convey professionalism, personality, or unity.
- Align with the purpose of the photo shoot, such as business branding or family portraits.
When everyone feels confident and comfortable in their clothing, it also shows in the photos.
General Tips for Choosing Photoshoot Outfits
Regardless of the type of photoshoot, these universal tips can help guide your clothing choices:
- Stick to a Color Palette: Choose two to three complementary colours or shades to create a cohesive look. Neutrals like navy, beige, cream, and grey often work well as a base, with pops of colour for interest.
- Avoid Distracting Patterns: Busy prints, logos, or bold patterns can detract from the subject. Opt for solids or subtle patterns.
- Consider the Season and Location: Align your outfit choices with the setting. For outdoor shoots, soft pastels or earthy tones can complement natural backdrops.
- Keep Comfort in Mind: Uncomfortable outfits will show in your body language. Wear clothing that fits well and allows you to move naturally.
- Minimise Accessories: Simple jewellery or accessories work best to avoid distractions.
Let’s dive into specific outfit suggestions for business owners, corporate groups, and families, but remember, if you have a photoshoot with Shauna and Morning Star Photography, get in touch. We will go through everything ahead of your photoshoot day!
Small Business Owners
For small business owners, photoshoots are often about creating a professional yet approachable brand image. Your outfit choices should align with your business’s values and industry while helping you feel confident in front of the camera.
- Opt for Classic, Tailored Pieces: A blazer, button-up shirt, and tailored pants or skirts are timeless options for a polished look.
- Add Personality with Subtle Details: Use accessories, such as a statement necklace, a patterned tie, or colourful shoes to reflect your style.
- Stick to Your Brand Colors: If your business has a specific colour scheme, incorporate those hues into your outfit to reinforce brand identity.
- Avoid Overly Trendy Styles: Choose outfits with a classic appeal to ensure your photos age well and remain relevant for years.
Check out a Personal Photoshoot Taken by Shauna for Eve Stafford for her album here. The idea was to ensure Eve’s personality shined through and she felt comfortable and confident.
Corporate Groups
Corporate photoshoots often involve teams; creating a cohesive look is essential to convey unity and professionalism.
- Coordinate, Don’t Match: Instead of matching outfits, aim for a complementary colour scheme that allows individual styles to shine. For example, everyone could wear shades of blue and grey.
- Opt for Professional Attire: Business formal or business casual works best, depending on your company’s culture. Think blazers, dress shirts, dresses, and tailored separates.
- Consider Fabric Textures: Avoid overly shiny or wrinkled fabrics that can distract from the polished look. Stick to matte textures that photograph well.
- Include Layers: Blazers, cardigans, or scarves add dimension to the images and provide versatility.
READ NEXT: Why Investing in Professional Photography Matters for Your Business
Families
Family photoshoots are all about capturing warmth, connection, and personality. Coordinating outfits without appearing too “matchy-matchy” is key.
- Start with a Color Palette: Choose one or two base and accent colours to tie everyone’s outfits together. Neutrals like cream, tan, and navy often work beautifully.
- Mix Textures and Layers: Add variety by incorporating knit sweaters, denim, or flowy fabrics. These elements create depth and movement in the photos.
- Avoid Exact Matching: While coordinating is great, avoid dressing everyone in the same colour or style for a more natural look.
- Plan Around a Statement Piece: If one family member has a standout outfit (e.g., a floral dress), build the rest of the group’s attire around that.
- Comfort is Key for Kids: Choose outfits that allow children to move freely. Avoid clothing that feels stiff or restrictive.
At Morning Star Studio, we ensure all families and kids are comfortable and feel at ease throughout the shoot, providing toys, teddies, and a warm environment to help them settle into the shoot.
READ NEXT: Essentials Tips for Your Newborn’s First Photoshoot
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your photoshoot outfits enhance rather than detract from the final images, steer clear of these common pitfalls:
- Wearing Logos or Text: These elements can date the photo and distract from the overall composition.
- Ignoring Undergarments: Ensure proper fit and coverage to avoid visible straps or lines.
- Neglecting Shoes: Shoes can make or break an outfit. Choose footwear that complements your overall look and aligns with the setting.
- Procrastinating on Choices: Waiting until the last minute can lead to rushed decisions. Plan outfits well in advance to ensure a polished and coordinated look.
More than anything, this shoot is for you; whether you’re a business owner, employee, individual or family, we will ensure you feel most comfortable during your shoot. Regardless of what you wear, we will guide you through it from when you book to provide a great experience and fantastic photos.
Book your photoshoot with Shauna here.