With the party season looming, it is time to get practicing with portrait photography, but rather than just tell you how to compose a great photo, we are here to share what people should and shouldn’t wear for the most flattering results.
That’s right, it isn’t always a game of skill when it comes to flattering portraiture – what your subject is wearing can have a big effect on how good the final result is. Once you know what your subject should be wearing (or indeed which people to pick out at a party) you’ll suddenly find your portrait photography services for friends and family in high demand!
Comfort
Subjects should never wear clothes that make them feel awkward, restricted or uncomfortable – unless you are attempting to capture that feel in your shot! A well tailored outfit, or something that is a favourite always works well. A new outfit, especially if it is special purchase can also help the subject feel like a million dollars – which will of course show in the photos.
Colour
Many photographers say that plain dark tops are best for portrait photography as it allows the face to stand out more, however it is an overload of pattern that causes the biggest issue. Crazy stripes, dots and checks can be a distracting element in a portrait shot – unless it provides context, we’ll be on to that in a bit – but generally speaking, loud colours along as they are plain can work well. Just pick something that goes well with the individual’s complexion, and if it is a group shot, pick clothes that don’t clash.
Context
Sometimes, using clothes to provide context can be the magic ingredient that separates a ‘portrait’ shot form a ‘snapshot’. Choosing clothes that tell a story in turn implies something about that person, it adds an extra dimension about the subject that the viewer might never had guessed. Whether it is a uniform that is worn for a job like an army uniform, or fun, such as Morris Dancing or just one item of clothing that tells us something about a pastime, maybe an apron covered in flour – using clothes to contextualise can cement the personality of the subject.
Cuffs n Collars
How much flesh is on show in a picture is not only about personal opinion. When a subject has short sleeves and shorts on for example, there is a lot of one tone added to the picture, and it can be a distraction from the focal point, the expressive parts of the body, such as the face. Long sleeves can make the hands seem more expressive, collars and scarves serve to frame the face. This is not to say that having naked limbs on show necessarily makes for a bad shot, it provides meaning in itself and may be important contextually or aesthetically.
Ultimately, when it comes to portrait photography, every element included in the shot has the potential to add context and be a part of that person’s story. What you choose to leave in and omit affects that visual narrative, and should be considered carefully. Clothes are a big part of that story, especially if it is a group portrait. It’s not just about looking good, it is also about setting the scene.
But then there is always that je ne sais quoi that breaks convention – so never stop experimenting, always try something new!
What are your thoughts on clothes in portrait photography? Please share your experiences with us below…
**Photos updated December 29 2018**
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