Congratulations! You’ve taken the leap and scheduled your personal branding photoshoot. You’re finally ready to show yourself, and your brand, off to the world. You’re all fired up, and then it hits you, “What in the world do I wear for a personal branding photoshoot?”

Ahhh, the age-old question. You’re not alone, most people stress over this. It’s so easy to overthink every single detail. The good news is, I’m here to help!

There are no hard rules or “one size fits all” for wardrobe suggestions. Every branding session is different because every client and business is unique. But based on your brand, as well as the technical aspect of photography, lighting and design, I can help guide you in the right direction. Keep reading for some tips on what to wear for a personal branding photoshoot.

What to wear for a personal branding photoshoot

Be yourself

Style is so subjective. First and foremost, the clothes should be comfortable, make you feel confident, and reflect who you are. If you are wearing something that makes you feel uncomfortable in any way, you will doubt yourself during the session. Confidence is key and that energy will come through in your photos.

You may have seen a gorgeous photo on Pinterest of a branding session styled in a floppy hat and maxi dress and thought, “I want that to be me!” But is it? If not, go with pleated slacks and a neutral button-down shirt. Or a concert t-shirt, Converse, and ripped jeans. Wear what represents your authentic personality and business. Which leads me to my next tip…

Know your clients

Clothing does make a difference in the look and feel of your images. You only get one chance to make a first impression to potential clients. It’s important to make sure your clothing represents the brand identity you are marketing to your specific clientele.

Who are your dream clients? Knowing this will help guide you. Are your clients professional? Creative? Casual? The right look can help clients identify with you, and respect you as a leader in your field.

Use your brand to guide you

Consider the styles and colors you have already implemented, or want to implement, in your branding, website and logo. Then choose outfits that will coordinate with that. Use complimentary colors to your brand colors. If your website and logo are bright and bold, dress colorfully. If your brand is more understated and professional, neutrals may work best. We will work together before your session to get a clear understanding of your personality, business mission, brand colors, and the overall feel you want for your business. This will ultimately lead us in the right direction for wardrobe.

Plan multiple outfits for different looks

For a typical session, I often tell clients to bring 4-6 outfit options on the day of the session. You will probably only wear 2-3 of them, but it’s good to have extras just in case. You’ll want to have enough options to have variety in your marketing, website and social media posts. I also suggest bringing some that are slightly more professional, and some that lean more casual.

Bring pieces that will mix and match to easily create new looks. Choose different accessories to change up an outfit without changing clothes. I’ll work with you throughout the session to help you decide and give honest feedback on what will photograph best. 

Need more tips? Keep reading for more info on what to wear for a personal branding photoshoot.

Coordinate, but don’t “match” the colors on your website. If your main brand color is yellow, don’t wear an all-yellow outfit. Maybe wear a complimentary color like blue and add yellow earrings or a scarf.

Wear colors that compliment your skin tone. Ask a friend if you aren’t sure.

Think of your location. Once we decide on the location for your session, wear clothing that makes sense to wear in that particular spot and colors that will help you stand out.

Mix patterns, fabrics and textures for visual interest.

I suggest wearing solids for most of the session. But feel free to bring a print or two to add in at some point for variety. 

Don’t fear bold pops of color! But, please note that neon colors will often add a color cast to your skin that cannot be removed. 

Layering is great for variety. Especially when shooting on location so you can change up your outfit without a changing room. Think about items like blazers, cardigans, scarves, t-shirts, jackets, boots, etc.

Only chose items that fit properly and don’t ride up or bunch oddly when you are sitting, crouching, walking, etc.

Make sure your clothes are clean and free of wrinkles. Check them for holes, pet hair, stains, and pilling. Bring a lint roller.

Have fun with accessories! If you love chunky jewelry and fun hats, please wear them! Accessories are a great way to change up an outfit without changing clothes.

A well-planned outfit can go downhill fast with the wrong shoes. Above all, make sure they are comfortable and clean. If you plan on wearing heels and we are shooting on location, bring a pair of flip flops or flats to wear while we are walking around.

Avoid logos (from other brands), thin stripes, and small plaids. The stripes and plaids can cause a distorted effect on your images.

Try to avoid too much black or white. It’s easy to lose depth in your images.

Professional hair and makeup may not be your thing in real life, but from a technical standpoint, it photographs beautifully. If you are interested, I know some great artists that do light editorial makeup that looks very natural.

Your hands and nails will show in many of your images. If you like to get manicures, make sure you schedule one a few days before your session.

Ask your photographer for help. I’m here for you!

Most importantly, have fun! Now’s your time to shine.

Ready to schedule your own branding session? Let’s work together!