Your photographer is asking, and now you're wondering... 'What should I wear to my photoshoot!?'


This is one of the first dilemmas clients come across before even walking on location. Deciding what to wear can become overwhelming.


What colours will look best on camera? On location?

How can I choose pieces that will flatter my body type?

Should we match or coordinate outfits?


I'm going to address these questions and more right here so that you can feel prepared with a wardrobe that will add to your photos in every way.



First thing is first.


You need to consider:

What is the LOCATION of the shoot?

What MOOD/FEELING do I want the photos to portray or evoke?

The REASON for the photoshoot?

What VIBE do you want to bring to the photoshoot?

What's in your wardrobe ALREADY?


This will all determine the colour scheme, style and accessories you will bring to the table.


Below, I'll give you some general advice below that can help you land on what looks you'd like to wear. But as always, I am here to help guide you. So don't hesitate to reach out and we can brainstorm together.

Couple standing, hugging in a golden field.
Couple kneeling side by side while they start a fire on the beach in Chelton, PEI, CA.
Couple sitting on armour rocks, cuddled and smiling in Kingston, Ontario, CA.

What colours should I wear to my Photoshoot? Colour Theory in Simple Terms:


Colours can influence the mood of your photos:

  • Neutral colors: Timeless and versatile. Think beige, white, gray, and soft browns.
  • Earth tones: Natural and grounding, like olive green, terracotta, and mustard.
  • Jewel tones: Bold and rich, such as emerald green, sapphire blue, and deep purple.
  • Pastels: Light and airy, perfect for spring or beach settings.


As a rule of thumb: Consider neutral and earth tones for nature settings, jewel tones or bold colours/shades for urban settings, and pastels for garden or beach-like settings.


Rules are made to be broken so, take all advice with a grain of salt and discuss with your photographer how your wardrobe can work with your setting.



Should I wear patterns or solid coloUrs?


  • Simple patterns like small florals or stripes can add subtle interest.
  • Stick to solid colours for a timeless look.


For the Body Conscious


Feeling self-conscious? Keep these tips in mind:

  • Comfort is key: Picking something well-fitting. Don’t wear anything that feels too tight or requires tugging to keep in place.
  • Highlight your strengths: Focus on the parts of your body you love most. Communicate any areas you want to avoid focus on with your photographer.
  • Layer strategically: Use belts, jackets, cardigans, or shawls to create flattering shapes.
  • Pose with purpose: I’ll guide you through poses that feel natural and make you look your best. We'll do an ice breaker crash course before getting started to help ease you into the tips and tricks I like to use.


My goal is to help you feel amazing in your photos! You can learn more by going a quick google of your body type, and recommended wardrobe considerations. Generally, we want to elongate (with necklines, pant styles and shoes) and create dynamic shape where possible: around the waist, for example.


Check out this video if you're interested how certain styles flatter certain body types:


How to Dress for your Body Type | The Body Matrix Quiz



Various color pallets reflecting Fall color schemes.

https://colorpalettes.net/

What should I wear for an outdoor photoshoot in different seasons?


These are just some examples to get your inspiration flowing.


  • Fall: Embrace warm earth tones like rust, mustard, and olive green. Try a cozy knit sweater paired with high-waisted jeans and ankle boots. Add a plaid scarf for texture and warmth.
  • Winter: Go for textured fabrics like cable-knit sweaters or wool coats in deep jewel tones like burgundy or navy. Layer with a stylish beanie, gloves, and tall boots to stay warm without sacrificing style.
  • Spring: Choose pastel shades like blush pink or light blue. A flowy dress paired with a light cardigan and ballet flats makes a perfect springtime look.
  • Summer: Stick to breathable fabrics like linen in neutral or soft colours. A maxi dress with sandals or a light button-down shirt with tailored shorts works well for sunny settings.


Pinterest is a great spot to search for colour palettes and seasonally themed inspiration.


Yellow and teal color scheme inspired by street art and a bicycle scene.

https://colorpalettes.net/

Ocean color scheme of neutrals: black, grey, beige, and shades of blue inspired by a lighthouse scene on stormy looking ocean.

https://colorpalettes.net/

Spring color pallet of pink, peach, cream, soft green and blue inspired by a scene of flowers.

https://colorpalettes.net/

Purple, pink and green color pallet inspired by spinach or lettuce laying flat on a pink surface.

https://colorpalettes.net/

How do I coordinate outfits for a group photoshoot?


  • Pick a colour palette with 2-3 complementary colours + neutrals.
  • Mix textures (e.g., knit sweaters, denim, lace) to add depth.
  • Aim for a cohesive look which means, not necessarily matching. Look for complimentary colours within your chosen palette. Then, mix and match tops and bottoms with those colours in mind.


What accessories should I wear for a photoshoot?


  • Keep it simple (unless it's a branding shoot): a necklace, a scarf, or a stylish hat can add personality.
  • Items that add to the storyline: sunglasses, bags, snacks, special items.
  • Hair ties/clips for style changes.


You want to have your hands free for the most part, so whatever your accessories, they should not require too much attention during the photoshoot.

Couple standing and smiling at each other on the salt flats with their hair blowing in the wind.
Couple sits on armour rocks, back on to the camera, looking ahead at the full moon rising in Kingston, Ontario, CA.

Preparation Tips


How do I prepare my clothes for a photoshoot?

Ensure everything is clean, wrinkle-free, and fits comfortably. Bring a lint roller, especially for darker outfits.

Consider rolling extra outfits, or hanging them on hangers in the back seat.


Should I try on outfits before my photoshoot?

Yes, always. This ensures everything fits well and you feel confident. Take a look in a full-length mirror from different angles.


What happens if I spill something on my outfit before the shoot?

Bring a backup outfit/layer just in case.

I've always got Photoshop.

What should I avoid wearing to a photoshoot?

Unless these items are a purpose for the shoot, we might avoid the following items for reasons I explain below:

  • Neon or mega-bright colours, as they can reflect unflattering tones onto your skin, especially in bright sun.
  • Large logos or busy graphics that take focus away from you.
  • Uncomfortable clothing that restricts movement, or causes many readjustments or tugging.
  • Overly shiny or distracting accessories.
  • High-maintenance pieces that require attention or could get damaged or dirty.
  • Shoes that may not be safe in the chosen location.


Lumenali client wardrobe inspiration mood board.

Brainstorm of a wardrobe mood board for a Lumenali branding client.

Mood Board Options


You've got me on the hook for all the mood boarding and research required to achieve a gorgeous gallery.

If ever you'd like guidance, I can style some outfit inspiration, personalized just for you, to help you decide on the perfect wardrobe for your photo shoot.


Lumenali inspiration board for Lake Ontario, Kingston, shoot.

Lumenali Client Inspo Board with Color Palette. You can see the colours at work in the following images taken at the inspired locations.

Couple sweetly smiling at each other while they fish on the edge of a dock at Lake Ontario Park, Kingston, Ontario, CA.
Couple walks through the shallow water at a Lake Ontario Park beach cove.
A couple floats in the dark lake water. They float on their back, facing opposite directions, and hold hands in Lake Ontario, Kingston, CA
Couple sitting in a green space with big trees, having a picnic at Lake Ontario Park, Kingston, Ontario, CA.
Couple sitting sweetly amongst black-eyed susans. He hands her a yellow flower at Lake Ontario Park, Kingston, Ontario, CA.

Final Word


This is all fairly standard advice.

Ultimately, this is your gallery, your images, your stories.

Your photos should reflect the best version of you. As you are!

If that means "breaking the rules", I'm all for it -- let's get weird.

You've seen my work. You know how much I love colour and alternative concepts so if you have something else in mind entirely, AWESOME!

Let's get to work!

Lumenali Wardrobe Checklist

Save this image to your desktop to help in choosing your wardrobe pieces for your upcoming portrait photoshoot.

Based in Kingston, Ontario. Serving Ontario, Quebec and beyond.

Hi, my name is

Ali Pitcher.

Ali from Lumenali Photography. She's standing on a lake beach, surrounded by foggy mountains with her camera in hand. Happy as a pig in...

Lifestyle Portrait & Elopement Photographer

I collaboratively craft genuine, visual narratives for my clients that are full-of-life, play and bursting with colour.


Offering Photography for:

Couples Portraits

Elopements & Micro Weddings

Small Business & Personal Branding


Up for anything!

Where you go, I go.