Clothing Suggestions
CLOTHING SUGGESTIONS
Attention to the face is the ultimate goal of a good portrait so proper clothing is essential. Neutral colors in medium/dark tones such as gray, green,black or blue are excellent choices and will allow the face to be the dominate element, not the clothing. It is also more slimming and attractive. Stripes, plaids or checks will be distracting and not flatter the face or make a good portrait. Clothing in medium shades are best for outdoor portraits. When more than one person is photographed, similar tonal ranges like gray and blue, the same color, or slightly different shades of the same color works much better, bringing the individuals together. Drastic color differences are distracting and separate the individuals, which does not make a good couple or group portrait. Simple clothing without distracting stitching, words, graphics or pocket flaps always photograph the best. Long sleeves are good because bare arms can be distracting and compete with the face.
Read MoreAttention to the face is the ultimate goal of a good portrait so proper clothing is essential. Neutral colors in medium/dark tones such as gray, green,black or blue are excellent choices and will allow the face to be the dominate element, not the clothing. It is also more slimming and attractive. Stripes, plaids or checks will be distracting and not flatter the face or make a good portrait. Clothing in medium shades are best for outdoor portraits. When more than one person is photographed, similar tonal ranges like gray and blue, the same color, or slightly different shades of the same color works much better, bringing the individuals together. Drastic color differences are distracting and separate the individuals, which does not make a good couple or group portrait. Simple clothing without distracting stitching, words, graphics or pocket flaps always photograph the best. Long sleeves are good because bare arms can be distracting and compete with the face.
Notice how the faces are equally the main attraction.
Although this is perfectly acceptable.. think how much better it could have been without that lower right corner competing for your attention! Long sleeves would have improved this already nice image.
Notice how the light colored shirt competes for your attention.
( photo left)