What to Wear for Your Business Photo Shoot
Guest Blog by Nicola English, Personal Style Coach
As a Personal Style Coach, I’m often asked to collaborate on photo shoots from vintage to business. One of the key questions I often get asked before the shoot is: “What should I wear?”
Firstly, it differs from shoot to shoot and it also depends on if it’s in a studio or on location. The indoor or outdoor location will have an influence on your photo shoot wardrobe.
Here are a few simple tips to help with the “what should I wear?” question on photo shoots.
Corporate Attire
If you work in a corporate environment or serve corporate clients, conservative classic outfits are usually the way to go. But remember corporate looks don’t have to be boring or simply black or grey in colour palettes. It’s ok to add a pop of colour, which can help to brighten up your face and make your picture stand out for all the right reasons.
Wardrobe
I like to pull a few key pieces from the client’s wardrobe and then build core outfits based on the client’s style requirements for their photo shoot. It’s important leading up to the shoot to have run through of all the outfits chosen, so you feel confident on the day with your chosen outfits, as it will show in the final images. If you’re thinking about necklines and what to opt for go for a V-neck which is very flattering on all you ladies because it helps to lengthen your neck and displays your beautiful feminine décolleté. If you choose to wear a jacket, team it with a collarless top, keeping it looking modern and the neckline simple and chic.
Make Colour Your Friend
Choose light, soft, and bright tones for your photos. Colours are a great way to express your emotions visually in a picture. But unless you’re feeling super confident, pass on bright red or orange. Please stay clear of neon or fluorescent colours; they really don’t get on well with the camera. If the very thought of colour sends you into a panic, just add a pop of colour with your accessories.
Patterns and Prints
I love mixing up plain solid colours with patterns or prints on clients’ shoots because they really do look good on camera. However, do try to use one pattern or print that will match the colour palette of the rest of your outfit. Don’t be afraid to go with fabulous florals which never go out of fashion.
Accessories Are Your Best Friend
Say yes to accessories! The term accessories cover a multitude of items from necklaces, earrings, watches, brooches, hats, and scarves. Accessories can take your outfit from drab to fab. They also add individuality and style in such a way that nothing else can. They can easily make you look like you’re wearing a whole different outfit!
Makeup
Makeup can make a big difference in terms of getting a fabulous professional look. A photograph isn’t just about the great arrangement, colours, or even the outfit, but having amazing makeup can bring the most out of your own natural looks. If natural and basic is your own style then stick to that look. Or if you wear a lot of make-up or sparkles then go for it. If you find makeup isn’t your thing, then get a professional make-up artist on board. I work with a few make-up artists and it really pulls everything together from the outfit to the hair to create the perfect photo shoot.
Hair
Think of your hair as another element of your wardrobe as it represents you and can be styled depending on your mood and outfit. Experiment with scarves, clips, headpieces, and even clip-ins (always make sure you have a colour match with clip-in hair extensions as you want them to look as natural as possible with your own hair). If you’ve decided to be brave before the shoot and opt for a new style or cut, always remember it should play up to your best features.
Final Note
Finally, the most important thing is for you to feel comfortable, happy and confident. How you feel during the shoot reflects in the photos, so make sure to wear something that reflects you!
