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When more than one person is to appear in the portrait, or when a special stylistic effect is desired, clothing and prop choices can make or break a portrait.

Skin Tone Considerations
Whether working with light or dark complexions, the objective always is for the face to dominate the portrait. Accordingly, skin highlights must be the lightest, brightest, most intense areas of the portrait. So when a medium to dark background is used, all subjects photograph best in medium to dark tones, whatever the skin tone.

Couples or small groups should choose simple garments within the same tonal ranges, keeping in mind how the clothing and background selection will affect the stylistic intention of the portrait.

When subjects appear in a mixture of light and dark tones together, there is visual confusion—as the light color comes forward, and the dark color recedes. When this happens, one person becomes dominant and appears heavier than in reality.

In a family group, proper clothing coordination is critical. When decorating a home, a major concern is to coordinate the colors and tones of the walls, carpets, drapes, and furniture. Similar coordination is necessary when selecting clothing for a group portrait. Choose clothing in the same tonal ranges so that no single member of the family stands out because the clothing is too light or bright as compared to the rest of the group.

Careful clothing selection makes the difference between a portrait that appears to be unrelated individuals and one in which every member of the family “belongs” to the group.

Light-colored clothing is appropriate against a white or pastel background.

Casual clothing complements portraits made in outdoor environments.

Memorable portraits take careful planning, and the clothing you choose is very important. These guidelines will help you to make clothing decisions that will enhance the style of your artwork.

Tips on Preparing For Your Portrait

Turtle necks or V-necks can be flattering, but they must not be exaggerated in style. Avoid very wide or particularly deep V-neck garments or bulky cowl-neck sweaters that completely hide the neck.
Long sleeves are essential for teens and adults, as bare arms call attention to themselves and will overpower the face.

Women being photographed in full length should wear long skirts, pants, or dark stockings with shorter skirts or dresses in order to keep the eye from being directed toward the legs and away from the face.
If feet are to show in the portrait, assure that shoes and stockings are in keeping with the visual intent of the portrait.

Men should have their hair cut about one week before the portrait session. Women should be photographed whenever they are happiest with their hair in relation to the time it is styled.