What to Wear for Your Photoshoot – A Guide

One of the most common questions I get is: "What should I wear for my photoshoot?" It's a fair question — clothing choices can make or break your final images. So instead of repeating myself in emails and texts, I’m putting everything here in on my blog. I’ll update this guide as needed.

Here it is;

First, some general Guidelines:

• What you wear depends on location, purpose, and group size.

• don’t overthink it, but you do plan.

• Comfort matters — if you feel awkward in your clothes, it’ll show.

• Avoid logos, neon colors, or anything too trendy unless that’s part of the look.

1. Studio Setting

Keep it simple. The studio is clean, controlled, and timeless and your outfit choices should reflect that.

• Go for classic cuts and solid colors.

• Neutrals and mid-tones work best: white, black, gray, navy, olive, tan.

• Women: V-neck tops are flattering and work well with lighting angles.

• Avoid busy patterns — they distract. If you want texture, think subtle knits or layered fabrics.

2. Outdoor/Natural Setting

The key here is to harmonize with nature, not fight it.  So, of course, earthy colors look amazing outdoors.

• Stick to muted, natural tones: soft blues, browns, greens, creams, dusty pinks, mustard, etc.

• Avoid bright white unless it’s layered.

• Texture over pattern — think knits, linen, denim. If you wear a pattern, keep it small and quiet.

• Shoes matter. No neon sneakers in the forest. 

This is where “effortlessly put together” beats “trying too hard.”

3. Urban Setting

This depends on what you’re aiming for: sleek and modern, classic and chic, or something in between.

Downtown Boston lends itself to Tailored, Timeless, and Chic.  Think charm and sophistication.

• Women:

• Midi dresses, structured blazers, wide-leg trousers, silk blouses, or a fitted sheath dress, or tailored coats on a cooler day.

• Monochrome or neutral palettes (black, ivory, navy, camel, soft grey) always photograph beautifully.

• Add understated accessories like pearl studs, a leather clutch, or a silk scarf for polish.

• Men:

• Opt for slim-fit chinos, crisp button-down shirts, a blazer or sport coat, or a classic sweater layered over a collared shirt.

• Leather loafers or Chelsea boots complete the look.

• Stick to neutral or deep, rich tones like navy, charcoal, forest green, or burgundy.

Other City Backdrops can handle a bit more contrast and edge. Leather jackets, bold blacks, structured outfits — all fair game.

• If you're shooting against brick or another colorful background, you want to stand out just enough.

• Keep accessories minimal and purposeful.

• Avoid head-to-toe black unless it's a stylistic choice — details disappear in shadow.

4. Group Photos (Family, Couple, Team)

Coordination is good. Matching is not. You’re not a choir.

• Pick a color palette — 3 to 4 tones max — and build around that.

• Everyone should look like they belong in the same photo, but not wearing the same outfit.

• Vary textures and layers to add visual interest.

• Avoid clashing patterns. If one person wears a print, others should stay solid.

Think cohesion, not uniformity.

Quick No List:

• No giant logos or text shirts

• No reflective fabrics

• No Contrasty pattern

• No baseball caps (unless it's a branding shoot)

• NO MATCHING! 

Final Word:

If you’re not sure what to wear, bring options, or don't hesitate to text me a picture of you outfits beforehand (617-209-7791). It is a lot easier to fix outfit choices beforehand than to try to fix in post-processing.