What to Wear for Your Portrait Session (And What to Avoid)

You've booked your session. You're excited. And then three days before, the panic sets in: what am I actually supposed to wear?

I've been photographing people in Colorado for over eight years, and wardrobe is genuinely one of the most common stressors I see before a session. So let me make it simple.

The one rule that covers everything

Wear something you'd feel comfortable spending two hours outside in, that also makes you feel like yourself on a good day.

If you're pulling something out of the back of your closet that you last wore three years ago, put it back. You want to feel natural, not performative. The camera picks up on discomfort more than any shirt choice.

Colors that work in Colorado light

Colorado's light is warm — especially at golden hour. Colors that complement it:

• Earth tones: rust, camel, terracotta, sand
• Soft neutrals: cream, oatmeal, stone grey, warm white (not bright white)
• Muted naturals: sage, olive, dusty rose, slate blue

Colors that fight the light:

• Neon and oversaturated colors — they draw attention away from your face
• Bright white — blows out in direct sun and creates harsh contrast
• Large logos or text — dates the photo instantly and distracts

The coordinating palette approach for groups

For couples and families, I recommend the palette approach rather than matching:

1. Pick 2–3 anchor colors that feel cohesive
2. Each person chooses clothing that fits within those colors
3. Vary the tones — one person in the deeper shade, another in a lighter version

This reads as intentional and cohesive in photos without everyone looking like they ordered from the same catalog.

Texture and layers are your best friend

Flat, solid colors look flat in photos. Texture adds visual depth without adding visual noise. Good options:

• Linen and cotton with natural wrinkle
• Knitwear and cable sweaters
• Denim (dark, well-fitted)
• Flowy fabrics that move in the breeze

Layers give us flexibility. A flannel tied around the waist, a denim jacket slung over a shoulder — these create natural poses and give your gallery more variety without a full outfit change.

What to avoid

• Busy patterns (small repeating prints, checkers, high-contrast stripes) — they create a visual effect called moiré that looks strange in photos
• Matching outfits — coordinated is always better than identical
• Uncomfortable shoes — you'll be walking on uneven terrain, and I need you relaxed, not wincing
• New clothing you've never worn — wear your chosen outfit around the house the week before so you know how it moves and feels

My style consult offer

Every session I book gets a style consultation — a short email exchange or quick call before your session where we talk through your outfit choices. I'll look at what you're thinking, give feedback, and help you finalize so you're not stressed the morning of.

The goal is for you to feel like the best version of yourself. A great portrait comes from feeling comfortable and present — and the right outfit is a big part of getting there.