What to wear.

Portraits in Black & White

Solid Colors

Solid colors are a safe bet for black-and-white portraits as they tend to photograph well and create a strong impact. Opting for solid hues eliminates the potential for clashing and allows the focus to remain on you and yours, enhancing the overall composition of the portrait.

Textures

Textures are crucial in adding depth and interest to black-and-white photography. Fabrics like knits, lace, or tweed can introduce tactile elements that enhance the richness of the image. The delicate twisting of lace or the wooly quality of tweed can create captivating contrasts and subtle variations in tone, adding dimension to the portrait, and infusing it with character, warmth, and visual depth.

Accessories

Carefully chosen accessories can add a splash of character to black-and-white portraits without distracting or overwhelming the overall portrait. These subtle additions serve as accents that complement the attire and show off your individual style. Whether it’s a bold statement necklace, your great-aunt’s brooch, your favorite felt hat, or a floral scarf, accessories can contribute to the narrative of the portrait, offering glimpses into your personality and interests.

What not to wear.

Busy Patterns

When choosing attire for your black-and-white portrait session, it’s best to steer clear of busy patterns or large logos that can be distracting in the final images. Instead, go with solid colors or subtle textures that will translate well in black and white and keep the focus on you and your unique expression.

Bright Neon Colors

When planning your wardrobe for a black-and-white portrait session, it’s wise to avoid bright neon colors. While these hues may be vibrant in color photography, they can appear overly intense and distracting in black and white. Opting for softer, more subdued tones will ensure that the focus remains on you, creating a more harmonious and captivating portrait.

Overly Matched Outfits

When posing with your loved ones, it’s important to strike the right balance between coordination and individuality. While matching outfits may seem like a good idea, they can often appear dated and lack visual interest in black and white. Instead, consider opting for complementary colors and styles that highlight each individual’s personality and flair.

Ill-Fitting Clothing

To make sure your black-and-white portraits look their best, wearing clothes that fit well is key. Fitted or tighter is better than looser fitting clothing. Well-fitted outfits not only make you look better but also help you feel more comfortable during the shoot. So, choose clothes that flatter your body shape and avoid anything too baggy or tight. When your clothes fit just right, you’ll feel confident and look great in your portraits, capturing your true self with style.

Shorts and Sleeveless:

Wearing Shorts in the studio tends to draw the viewer’s eye to the legs instead of to the face. Sleeveless tops also draw attention to upper arms and armpits, and in general, are best avoided for the most flattering results in our portrait studio.