What to Wear for Your Photoshoot: A Simple Guide From a Jacksonville Photographer
"What should I wear?" is the number one question I get before every session. Good news: you don't need a stylist. You just need a few simple rules. Here's exactly what works on camera and what to skip.
Start with how you want to feel
Before you think about colors, think about the vibe. Confident and bold? Soft and natural? Clean and professional? Pick outfits that match that feeling and that you'd actually wear. If you feel good, it shows.
Colors that photograph well
Solid colors and neutrals like cream, tan, white, olive, rust, navy and black always look clean
Rich earth tones look amazing against Jacksonville's greenery and golden hour light
One pop of color is great. Head to toe neon usually isn't
Avoid small busy patterns, tiny stripes and big logos. They distract from you and can look strange on camera
Fit is everything
Clothes that fit well look expensive on camera, even if they weren't. Avoid anything too baggy or too tight. Steam or iron the night before, wrinkles show up more than you'd think.
Add texture and layers
Texture adds depth to photos. Think knits, linen, denim, leather, flowy fabric that moves in the wind. A jacket, shirt or kimono you can take on and off is an easy way to get two looks out of one outfit.
Families and groups: coordinate, don't match
Pick a palette of 3 to 4 colors and let everyone wear something different within it. One person can wear a subtle pattern, everyone else solids. It looks intentional without looking like a uniform. Two people? Wear separate but complementary tones instead of the same color.
Shoes and accessories
Wear shoes you can actually walk in, or bring a pair for the walk and swap at the spot
Keep accessories simple: a watch, a statement piece or a hat can add personality
Take off hair ties on your wrist and empty your pockets before we start
Match the location
Beach: light, flowy fabrics and neutrals. Barefoot works
City and Riverside: structured pieces, denim, bold colors that pop against brick
Studio: solids and strong silhouettes, nothing that blends into the backdrop
Parks and trails: earth tones that work with all the green
Hair, makeup and grooming
Do what makes you feel like the best version of you. Fresh nails, a fresh cut or lining a day or two before, and a little extra moisture on skin all make a difference. If you're getting makeup done, book it close to your session time.
Bring options
Bring one more outfit than you plan to use. We'll pick together on site. Premium Lifestyle sessions include up to two outfits, so this is where you get to switch it up.
Want the printable version? Grab my free What to Wear guide on the homepage. Ready to book? See sessions and pricing.
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