What to Wear for Your Photo Session & Hair Tips

Whether you're planning a solo shoot, headshots, a couples session, or family photos, what you wear plays a big role in the final look of your portraits. I want you to feel confident, comfortable, and camera-ready, so here are my favorite tips to help you choose the perfect look—plus seasonal color palettes and accessory advice.

 

General Tips for Everyone

Comfort First: If you feel good, you'll look good! Choose clothes that fit well and don't require constant adjusting.

Avoid Busy Patterns: Stick to solids or subtle textures. Loud prints or logos can distract from your face.

Layers Add Interest: A cardigan, jacket, or scarf can add texture and dimension to your photos.

Think Coordinated, Not Matching: Especially for couples or families, choose colors that complement each other instead of identical outfits.

 

Solo Portraits & Lifestyle Sessions

Choose an outfit that reflects your style, but is slightly elevated—think what you'd wear to a nice dinner or an important event.

Dresses, jumpsuits, button-downs, or well-fitted jeans with a blouse all work well.

Add interest with a hat, scarf, or layered jewelry.

Hair Tip: Style your hair in a way that feels natural to you. A fresh blowout or curl adds polish. Avoid trying a brand-new style on the day of the shoot.

 

Professional Headshots

Stick to neutral or rich solid tones: navy, black, charcoal, white, burgundy, or emerald.

A blazer, structured top, or collared shirt works well.

Jewelry should be simple and minimal (stud earrings, a thin necklace, etc.)

Hair Tip: Neat and professional—think how you'd style your hair for a job interview. Flyaways? A touch of hairspray or a smoothing brush can help.

 

Couples Sessions

Choose 2–3 coordinating colors and build both outfits from that palette.

Textures like knits, chambray, or lace photograph beautifully.

One person can wear a subtle print while the other wears a solid one to balance the look.

Accessories: Statement earrings, hats, or boots can add style. Just don't overdo it—less is more.

Hair Tip: Let your hair down and soft—especially if we're outdoors. Natural movement is your friend!

 

Family Portraits

Choose a main color and 1–2 accent tones for the whole family (earth tones, neutrals, soft pastels).

Mix textures (denim, cotton, linen) and vary tones to create a cohesive look without matching exactly.

Avoid neon colors or characters/logos on kids' clothes.

Accessories: A bow, necklace, or suspenders can look adorable on little ones. Just be sure they're comfortable and secure.

Hair Tip: Let everyone's personality shine. Brushed and tidy is great; there is no need for stiff or over-styled looks. Bring a brush and some wipes, just in case!

 

Seasonal Color Palettes

Spring:

Blush, soft blue, ivory, sage green, lavender, light gray

Summer:

Dusty blue, peach, white, soft yellow, coral, navy

Fall:

Olive green, rust, cream, burgundy, mustard, tan, denim

Winter:

Deep green, plum, charcoal, black, ivory, red, metallics

 

Final Checklist

• Try everything on before the shoot—sit, walk, and move in it.

• Iron or steam your clothes the night before.

• Stay hydrated and get a good night's sleep—you'll feel amazing on camera!

Need help deciding? Feel free to send me photos of your outfit options. I'm happy to help you plan the perfect look for your session!

 

4seasonsphotographyonline@gmail.com

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Attire & Hair Tips PDF

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Makeup Tips for Photo Sessions

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You don’t need a glam squad to look amazing in photos—just a few tweaks to your everyday routine can make a big difference!

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1. Start with a Clean, Moisturized Face

Hydrated skin looks fresh and glows in photos.

Apply a lightweight moisturizer and a good primer to help your makeup last.

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2. Even Out Your Skin Tone

Use foundation or tinted moisturizer that matches your neck (no harsh lines!).

Set with translucent powder to reduce shine—especially in the T-zone.

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3. Conceal Thoughtfully

Use concealer to brighten under the eyes and spot-cover blemishes.

Avoid piling it on—less is more with high-def photography.

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4. Define Your Features

Brows: Fill them in lightly to frame your face.

Eyes: Stick to neutral shadows, a touch of eyeliner, and mascara.

Cheeks: Add a soft blush (peachy or rose) to bring life to your face.

Contour/Highlight: Optional, but a subtle contour and highlight can define cheekbones and jawlines beautifully on camera.

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5. Choose the Right Lip Color

Natural tones work best: rose, berry, or nude.

Avoid super shiny gloss (it can reflect light oddly).

Matte or satin finish lipsticks photograph well and stay put.

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6. Don’t Skip Setting Spray

A makeup setting spray helps lock everything in and gives your skin a soft finish.

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Makeup Tips by Session Type

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Headshots: Keep it polished and clean—think “interview ready.”

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Families & Couples: Natural and warm, with a touch more than everyday wear.

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Senior Portraits: Have fun! A bit of shimmer or color is okay, as long as it’s balanced.

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Men: A dab of powder or blotting paper helps with shine, especially on the forehead and nose.

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Bonus Tip: Do a Trial Run

If you’re doing your own makeup, test it a few days before your session. Take a few selfies in natural light to make sure you’re happy with the colors and coverage.

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Make-up Tips PDF

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