How to choose the right outfit for your beach photo session
Everybody wants to look fabulous and confident for their pictures so here are a few simple steps to follow in order to look your absolute best!
Wear something that shows your personality. It should be well fitting and comfortable to move around in. During your shoot you could be sitting, standing, and/or laying down.
Know your body type. Choosing your outfit to match your body type is important. If you are short be careful with proportions. Choose short dresses or dresses with a high waist to lengthen your body. If you are tall try to avoid 3/4 length dresses that will chop those lovely long legs. If you are skinny with limited curves, try to choose feminine cuts or use belts to mark your waist. If you are more voluptuous don’t choose large dresses or loose, bulky clothes in general. Choose a more fitted dress with cleavage and avoid horizontal stripes.
There are lots of things to consider when choosing your clothing color. Colors that complement the surroundings always work well for portraiture. A beach session does well with colors like aqua, turquoise, navy, and seafoam green. These always photograph well and work with nearly all skin tones. There is also something classic about the family of blue colors. Family beach pictures in navy blue and the complimenting colors to that tone are always a winner. Wear white for timeless beach photos. If your shoot is at sunrise you can also pull your color scheme from the colors of the sky, soft pastels in pink, peach or lavender. If you have a loud and bold personality go for a deeper or brighter color options like teal, orange, yellow, or red. Just try to stay away from neons. Solid colors always work well. Prints can be a good option so long as its not too busy. You want to be the focus of your photos, not your clothes.
Next think about the vibe you want for the photos. Do you want it super casual? A little more dressy and formal? Or maybe with a boho feel? I love a good flowy dress! You can create some impressive photos with the wind blowing and a flowy dress; it adds energy and movement to the image. For maternity clients, long maxi dresses (stretchy non-maternity styles) in a complimenting color or an ombre pattern create interest and hug the mama to be’s curves.
Accessorize! Hats, scarves, sunglasses, jewelry, flowers for your hair, belts, and light weight sweaters can all take your photos from good to amazing and don't forget about texture. I love crocheted or hand knit items, lace, ruffles and other different textures layered up with each other. Remember though, it is all about balance. The accessories need to complement the outfit, not overpower it. Make up should do the same. A simple pair of jeans paired with a white lace tank top with the right jewelry can be stunning.
Here are a few additional tips:
Wear clothes that hide tan lines and avoid tanning the day before your session. You don't want to accidentally get a sunburn.
Nails – remove old polish, and give a fresh coat.
No pony tail holders on your wrist!
Ditch the shoes and go barefoot.
Do not use lotion on your face prior to the session, wind blown hair will stick to dewy cheeks.
Don’t get stressed out. Remember to have some fun and just go with the flow.