Dressing the Part: What to Wear and How to Prep for Your Photoshoot

What you wear sets the tone. Start with the photoshoot's purpose and setting, then choose outfits that feel like you and photograph well.

Start with purpose and setting.

• Portraits call for timeless pieces you will still like in 5 years.

• Personal branding should reflect your brand colours, audience and where the images will live.

• Location matters. Studio suits clean, minimal looks. Outdoors adds texture, so keep clothes simple.

Wardrobe rules that always work

• Choose you. If you have never worn a suit, do not start now. Confidence is easily read.

• Fit beats fashion. Well-fitting, tailored, comfortable. Avoid anything that rides up or needs constant fixing.

• Bring 2 to 4 options. Tops with different necklines, one lighter, one darker, one with texture. Pack a spare in case of spills.

• Layers add interest. Jacket, knit, overshirt or scarf you can add or remove for quick variety.

• Shoes count. If full-length shots are possible, bring clean shoes that match each outfit.

Colour palette that photographs well

• Safest bets, neutrals, earth tones, soft pastels, navy, charcoal, cream, olive.

• Use bold colour with intent. Great if it suits your personality or brand, but anchor it with neutrals.

• Avoid neon and very bright white near the face, as they can cast colour or blow highlights.

• Coordinate for groups. Do not match exactly. Pick a palette of 3 to 4 colours and mix tones and textures.

Patterns, textures and logos

• Keep patterns subtle. Fine stripes, small checks or gentle florals are fine. Loud patterns pull focus.

• Texture is your friend, knitted garments, linen, denim, and wool photograph beautifully.

• Skip big logos or slogans unless it is a brand shoot. They date quickly.

Comfort and fit

• Move, sit, breathe. If it pinches or gapes in the mirror, it will show on camera.

• Steam or iron everything. Bring a lint roller and spare tights or socks.

Accessories

• Simple jewellery, a clean watch, a belt if it helps the line.

• Hats, scarves and glasses can add character, but keep the face visible.

• Glasses, clean lenses (an anti-reflective coating can help). 

Makeup for the camera

The pro option

Costly, but worth it, book a professional makeup artist. They know how products read on camera, match tones well, and keep you fresh for the whole session. I can organise a trusted makeup artist for you if needed.

If you are doing your own

• Skin prep, cleanse, moisturise, let it settle.

• Base, choose a natural or soft matte finish that matches your neck. Avoid SPF or heavy shimmer if we will use flash, they can reflect.

• Conceal where needed, not everywhere.

• Eyes, define lash line and brows. Mascara helps. Keep glitter for parties, it flares on camera.

• Cheeks with a touch of blush, then very light contour if you use it.

• Lips, hydrated and defined. Choose a shade that suits your outfit and skin. Bold is fine if it fits the brief.

• Set with a light dusting of powder on the T zone.

• Bring for touch-ups, powder, blotting papers, lip colour, small brush or spoolie, tissues and cotton buds.

For men or minimal makeup, moisturise, tame brows, lip balm, a little anti-shine on forehead and nose. Trim beard or shave the day before to avoid redness.

Hair and grooming

• Haircut or colour about a week before, not the day before.

• Avoid tight elastics that leave dents. Bring a brush or comb and light-hold spray.

• Nails should be neat and neutral. Hands are in more shots than you think.

• If you shave, do it the night before if your skin is sensitive.

Multiple outfits

Longer sessions usually allow changes. Plan looks that shift mood, for example smart, relaxed, statement. Keep jewellery, shoes and layers handy for quick swaps.

Communicating with your photographer

• Pre-shoot chat: share goals, where images will be used, and any no-go preferences.

• Moodboard and palette, a few reference images help align the look.

• Shot list, must-haves and nice-to-haves.

• Trust the process, your photographer will guide light, angles and posing.

• Speak up and mention any concerns early so we can adjust.

• After the shoot, confirm timelines for selection, retouching and delivery.

What to bring on the day

Hangers or a garment bag, a lint roller, nude and black underwear, spare socks, a hair kit, makeup for touch-ups, water, a snack, and a favourite playlist if it helps you relax.

Final thought

Dress like the best version of yourself, not someone else. Choose colours that flatter, clothes that fit, and details that do not steal the show. With a bit of prep and clear communication, you will feel comfortable, and it will show in every frame.