The
Alisandra Photography Blog

Let’s talk about what to wear for a photo session. Modern portraiture is far more candid and movement oriented. As a photographer, I want you to look at your photos as moments out of your life. While I obviously don’t want you to show up in your yoga pants, your look should be a good reflection of you, but leveled up.

Is this complicated? No. Could you spend hours looking through your closet and decide you need to go shopping? I mean, I do! Every time Chad and I step in front of a camera, I feel like I need something new! But I always end up with another classic piece that I end up wearing for at least a year after. I know it’s because I follow some basic rules:

1. Get Inspired. This is where pinterest shines! Outfit inspiration is overflowing, so searching something like, “White dress photo session,” will give you great results!
2. Try to start with one stand out look. It is so much easier to plan everyone else’s look around one thing. For example, one of my Christmas mini session families. Mom wore a beautiful sparkly champagne long dress. It was a show stopper! All she needed were a few other simple outfits to complement this outfit.
3. Colors + Textures. Stick with a simple and neutral color palate. Do not underestimate the longevity of timeless colors! Whites, Creams or browns, light or navy blue, blush pink, olive or hunter greens. For example. I love delicate white top and a structured pair of jeans. I love a floral print that isn’t too contrasty or bold. I love FORMAL WEAR! But more about that in number 4. I love a soft textured sweater paired with some leather.
4. Dress UP. Never hesitate to take your look up a notch with something fancy. A pair of heels instead of a pair of sneaks. A dress instead of pants. Statement earrings instead of small studs.
5. Things to avoid. Rules are made to be broken. But there are things that do not look good on camera. Let’s talk about them.

• • Colors: Neons or really bold/bright orange, pink or red. They just don’t photograph the best! If you go bold, try jewel tones like emerald, topaz, garnet, sapphire. Also, avoid too much of one color. Let’s not have everyone in white and blue. It’s one thing to have a monochromatic look, but if everyone is in jeans and white tops, it’s not going to look candid or modern.
  • Patterns: Say no to thin stripes or seersucker. Say no to bold stripes. Say no to big florals or lots of contrast in a pattern.
  • Fit/Material: Make sure your choices fit well and aren’t too clingy. Stay away from jersey fabrics, especially in dresses. They cling to every curve or bump! Oversized looks are cute, but tend to photograph frumpy!