Clothing Selection
A successful family portrait requires more than just a skilled photographer. The selection of proper clothing can make the difference between a personalized work of art and "just another picture". If possible, lay out clothing in the room where portrait will be displayed to ensure colors blend with your decor.
| Poor Choices | Good Choices |
|---|---|
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| Stripes and patterns emphasize clothing | Solid colors keep emphasis on faces |
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| Contrasting tones make an individual stand out | Similar tones achieve a unified group look |
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| Light bottoms add weight | Darker bottoms make hips look thinner |
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| Light shoes and socks emphasize feet | Dark shoes and socks keep emphasis on faces |
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| Different clothing styles are confusing | A consistent style unifies the group |
Quick Clothing Summary
Pick one tone (light, medium or dark tone) for tops, choose one tone for bottoms, select dark socks and shoes, and wear solid colors with a consistent clothing style. Long sleeves and long pants keep focus on face (not on arms and legs).
Easy Color Schemes to Achieve a "Group Look"
Select one of the following for tops: black, navy, denim, green or white. (Red, maroon and khaki are good for locations without red rocks.) Select one of the following for bottoms: denim, black or khaki.
Choose Colors Carefully for Black and White Portraits
Here is a chart that shows how clothing colors will appear in black and white portraits. To get more SNAP in your images, select tops that contrast with the tones of your location. For example, a light or dark tone shirt will look great in a location with medium green trees, but a red shirt will just look "muddy".
