How to look for photo session? Happy! This is the most popular question and of course it is one of the important ones. I have read many blogs and advice columns of good photographers. I tried to put all of them together that you can get some idea what to wear for the best photos. Lets start with - always coordinate with your photographer on what to wear and the concept of your shoot. Answer to the question is very simple: everything depends on the location, the weather, and the amount of people in the pictures. (single or multiple subjects) Digging deeper in this:
Make up/ Hair style - I am not a stylist but as far as I know - there are two different make up types - one for day light (natural light make up) and one for the inside light. If the pictures are taken outside - keep it simple. These photos will be a reminder to your loved ones and they want to remember you the way you are. This is not time to experiment. Skin- don't use oily facial creams. Eyes must be emphasized, but not too overdone. Lips - not too bold. Take your makeup items in your bag - that way you always can fix something right before the pictures are taken. Don't have a fancy hair style if you are wearing jeans or don't have pony tail when wearing something formal. Try to avoid getting a haircut the day prior to the photo session. Hair does not always look exactly the same as just after the hair dresser. Don't forget your smile at home!
Outfits - Remember you always must feel comfortable with the clothes that you are wearing. (I know pajamas are our most comfortable outfits, but this time leave them at home. Unless, it is a pajama party picture :) ) Don't wear old and washed out clothes. Choose outfits that will enhance and compliment your body. Remember that fitted clothes look more polished and flattering than loose clothes. Dark shoes and socks are better than lighter colored ones. Don't wear high heels if you are going to have pictures taken in the woods. Choose a top with sleeves at least to the elbow and avoid short shorts. Skirts should be below the knee if you are planning for sitting - it will make you much more comfortable. Keep jewelry simple and minimalistic. All these things can take away attention from your face. Bring more than one outfit. It is good to know that outfits are not the main part of the image - they are a part of your look.
Match/Coordinate - You do not have to look exactly like the other person in the picture but you should coordinate the colors that you both (for example - engagement picture) or all (for example - family) are going to wear. I like how Darlene Hildebrandt suggest : "Choose 1-3 colours for your group portrait, ones with similar tones that go nicely together and have everyone work within that colour palette." So the same color palette, but not the same color.
Colors - You can wear almost any color but try to avoid overly bright colors (for example: bright reds, oranges, lime greens and yellows- by the way these colors will make you look larger). Avoid very dark or very bright colors that can blend into the background. Try to wear a contrasting color from the location. Solids and pastels are the best options. It is good to wear different shades of the same color or just add some accent color, like red, and have everyone else wear just a small touch of that (for example - scarf, hat etc.) Just make sure that the colors are not washed out and patterns look good. For those people who are making holiday cards - try planning your outfit colors close to design colors of card.
Patterns/Logo - Anything knitted/crochet or with lace always looks amazing. Try not to wear visually busy clothing (for example - with graphics, large logos, big bold prints of brand name, big stripes, huge polka dots, contrast color spots). By the way, vertical stripes make a person appear skinnier and taller. But be very careful with plaid or stripes; if the pictures will be taken against a brick wall you will blend into it.