One of the hardest parts about pictures I’ve seen as a Utah photographer is hands down deciding what everyone is going to wear. I’ve been there too – laying out countless combos on the bed, sifting through everyone’s closets – it can be stressful, overwhelming, and time consuming. But I want your experience with your photos to be just the opposite! We’re aiming for laid back, stress free, and fun – and creating that climate starts way before the session starts which is why I want to share a few tips to help you know what to wear for pictures.

I’m always cautious about this section because most of all I want you to wear what you feel most confident in and feels like you and your style. Sometimes someone can pull off neon pink and it looks amazing, but assuming that’s not what you’re going for here are my general guidelines:

 

Avoid logos and busy patterns

Your photos probably are not the time for your favorite Star Wars t-shirt (although I’m sure it’s a winner 😉 ) or ANY noticeable logo because logos detract from the focus of the photo staying on you which is the whole point! Avoid really busy, colorful patterns, and avoid both wearing a pattern – they usually clash. Choosing classic clothes that don’t have a lot of patterns or logos typically looks best.

And be mindful of where people will be standing, especially if you have a family photo session coming up. Thinking about who will be next to who can help you avoid having clumps of the same color or patterns next to each other.

 

 

Go with classic colors that coordinate

Avoid colors that clash or are really bright – typically they edit funny. Aim for neutrals like cream, jean, khaki, black, white, brown. Or muted colors (basically think of a bright color that black or white has been mixed into). And try to coordinate the colors with the others in the photo. You can match colors exactly but it can be harder to pull off sometimes.

Keep in mind your location. If you’re wearing neon pink with orange and yellow fall leaves in the background it might not look the best.

Also think about your skin tone when choosing your colors and choose ones that you think look best on you, as well as your home decor. These photos will (hopefully) be printed out and hanging in your home so do you want to look at the color scheme every day and does it match your decor? With that being said, if you love bright colors, go for it! Most of all it always comes down to you and your style.

 

Your shoes and accessories matter

Your shoes matter! The overriding principle is your shoes should align with your overall vibe and the season. Heels and dress shoes for classy, barefoot or casual sneakers for chill. Boots in winter or fall. You get the idea.

And even though most accessories are small, they are noticed. A dainty necklace adds a nice touch. Sometimes your socks will be showing. Have your nails painted (unless that’s so not you) and bring your ring if you’re engaged or married! (Get it cleaned before if you want it extra sparkly!) If you’re wearing a smartwatch, turn it on do not disturb! Otherwise I can read your texts while I’m editing which is awkward haha.

 

Think about what vibe you’re going for

When you’re choosing your outfit and location, keep in mind that each outfit communicates a feeling and so does each location. For example:

• If you’re going for chill or fun – think a plain white T with jeans and sneakers for your outfit or barefoot with a dress and baking cookies or playing a game in your apartment, splashing in the lake, hitting up the climbing gym, longboarding, grabbing ice cream, walking around the outdoor mall, etc. for your location
• If you’re going for classy – a classy dress with a button up or suit for your outfit and strolling downtown, a studio, the mountains or a field for your location
• If you’re going for whimsical – barefoot in a whimsical dress with your man in jeans and a white T for your outfit and the sand dunes or the ocean or a field for your location

You get the idea.

Also keep in mind the season, a short-sleeved shirt in snow looks forced. Wear what makes sense for the season you’re in, otherwise it sends a confusing message.

And when choosing your outfits always remember to coordinate them with the location. If you’re wearing neon pink with orange and yellow fall leaves in the background it might not look the best.

 

Get inspiration from online and your closet

If you’re having a hard time deciding what style you want to go for, you can hop on Pinterest and search “engagement photos” or “family photos” or whatever is relevant. Set a timer for 5-10 minutes and pin all the ones you like to a board, then go back and see what the recurring theme is.

Another great place to start is your closets! What do you already have that you reach for a love? What do you have that is classic and something you think would look cute in a photo? I usually can piece together what we already own every year for our family photos.

 

Don’t force it

Don’t force an outfit. Even if it seems like the thing you should wear for photos, if you don’t like it on you or you’re having to tug and pull to keep it in place, opt for something you’re going to feel most comfortable in. Start by grabbing your favorite outfits that you feel most confident and cute in and choose one from those.

 

Ask me!

Photographers take pictures all the time. For a living actually! So whether you choose to go with me or someone else ask your photographer to help you decide! I’m always happy to help you choose an outfit from your closets, help you find one to buy, or narrow it down.

Remember how you feel taking a photo impacts how much you’ll enjoy your pictures so choose what you’re going to wear a few days before so it’s not a last minute crisis.

And at the session empty out your pockets or leave phones and wallets in the car! I can hold onto things for you as well.

Most of all

All these suggestions are great, but the most important thing you can do is make your outfits you. Wear what you love. Your pictures are a reflection of the fun, beautiful, unique person you are and relationships you have. So don’t feel a need to be someone you’re not. If the neon green pants, a concert shirt, and pink Vans are your thing, I’m not going to stop you. Make it you, choose something you feel confident and relaxed in, and you will love your photos!

XO, Lauren

To book a session go to renpetersen.com/photo

Utah Photographer | What to wear for pictures