What Clients Should Wear to their Shoot: A Photographer's Guide

As a professional photographer, one of the most common questions I get asked by clients is 'What should I wear to the shoot?' Well, the answer to this question isn't a one-size-fits-all. It depends largely on the type of photography session you're booking, and of course, your personal comfort and style.

Let's start off by stating the obvious: Yes, you should definitely be wearing clothes for your shoot, unless it's a boudoir session and you're comfortable otherwise. Now, whether it's a pre-wedding ceremony, the actual wedding, a family photoshoot, or a headshot session, the goal is to ensure you're comfortable and feel good in what you're wearing. After all, if you're not comfortable, it will show in the photos.

Here's a golden rule to follow: Don't dress in a way that will get us arrested or put on the news. Jokes aside, think about the weather and the location of the shoot. You don't want to be freezing cold or uncomfortably hot. It's all about finding that Goldilocks 'just right' balance.

When it comes to colors and patterns, I'm not overly fussy. Whether you're in white, dressed up, in shorts, or even flip flops, it's all fair game. However, do try to avoid clashing with your partner or the rest of the family if it's a group shoot. Also, consider the lighting and backdrop of the location. For instance, if you're planning to wear a bright blue outfit for your engagement session and the setting is a bright blue couch with blue or black club-style lighting, you'll end up looking like a smurf. In this case, I might laugh a little (or a lot), and kindly suggest a change in either the location or the outfit.

I've had weddings where the couple chose jeans and sneakers, family sessions with an Addams Family theme, and boudoir sessions in both lingerie and fully clothed outfits. The key is to wear what makes you feel empowered and confident. That's what truly shines through in the photos, and that's what I aim to capture.