What to Wear to a Photo Session: A Complete Guide for Stunning, Timeless Images

Your outfit can make or break a photo session — no pressure, right?

As a professional portrait and wedding photographer based in Victoria, BC, one of the most common (and important!) questions I hear is: What should I wear for my photo shoot? The truth is, your outfit can make all the difference in creating timeless, beautiful images. It has the power to complement the setting, enhance your natural beauty, and, most importantly, help you feel confident and at ease in front of the camera.

To take the guesswork out of styling, I’ve put together this guide to help you look and feel your absolute best during your upcoming photo session. Let’s dive in!

1. Wear Something That Makes You Feel Beautiful & Comfortable

The key to stunning photos? Wearing something that makes you feel both confident and comfortable. If you’re not at ease in your outfit, it will show in your photos — so skip anything that’s too tight, too loose, not warm enough, or not your style. Choose pieces that highlight your best features and make you feel like a million bucks.

2. Avoid Logos, Graphics, and Bold Patterns

Logos, graphic tees, and busy patterns can be fun in everyday life, but they end up distracting from what really matters in your photos — you! Neon colours, high-contrast designs, and loud prints steal the spotlight and can even cause colour casting issues. Instead, go for clean, unbranded clothing in solid colours or subtle textures. This will help keep the attention on your natural beauty and ensure your images have that timeless feel.

3. Stick to Neutral and Earthy Tones

Neutral and earthy tones are always a safe bet. Think creams, greys, muted greens, warm browns, black, navy blue, and pastels. These shades are flattering against any backdrop, whether it's a lush green forest or an urban cityscape. They let you shine through without competing with your outfit, giving you a classic, effortless look. Plus, they photograph like a dream.

4. Don’t Match — Wear Complementary Colours

For couples or family sessions, coordination is key, but matching isn’t necessary. No need for everyone to wear the same shade of blue. Opt for soft, neutral colours that complement each other and flow together. This gives you that effortless, chic vibe that’s perfect for portraits.

5. Choose Clothes that Fit Properly

Clothing that fits well can make all the difference in your photos, especially since many photographers, myself included, like to include a lot of movement into sessions. Outfits that are too tight or too loose can restrict your movement or cause discomfort, which can show in your photos. Aim for clothing that flatters your shape without being overly tight or baggy. Well-fitting clothes allow you to move freely —whether you’re twirling, walking, or shifting positions — helping you feel comfortable and confident throughout the session.

6. Tailor your outfit to the season and weather

For spring and summer shoots, think light, breathable fabrics like linen and cotton in soft, muted tones. In fall, cozy sweaters and layered looks in rich, warm tones work beautifully. Winter? Wool coats, knit sweaters, and extra layers to stay warm. Be sure to dress for the weather so you’re comfortable throughout the session — and don’t forget to check the forecast!

7. Consider Sleeves or Pants

While shorts and tank tops are great for casual wear, they can sometimes distract from your face in images, especially under bright light. Sleeves or pants create clean lines that keep the focus on your face and expressions. They can also give a more polished, put-together look, while offering the practical benefit of comfort in changing weather. Summers in Victoria aren’t that hot anyway, so a little extra coverage is a smart choice! Of course, if you feel great in a sleeveless or short look, go for it. The key is feeling confident and ensuring the attention stays on you.

8. Dress Up

When in doubt, lean toward a slightly more formal look. While your session should reflect your personal style, a polished outfit always adds timeless appeal to your photos. Flowy dresses, tailored pieces, or well-fitted shirts and pants tend to photograph better than overly casual choices like hoodies or worn-in t-shirts. Think of it like dressing for a nice dinner instead of a laid-back day at home — it’ll help your images feel more special.

9. Consider Clothing with Movement

Outfits that flow or move with you can add a beautiful dynamic element to your photos. Dresses, skirts, or lightweight materials like silk or linen catch the breeze and create soft, natural movement. It’s not a must, but incorporating one outfit with a bit of movement can bring variety to your session and make posing feel more effortless. A gentle twirl, a walk along the beach, or a candid laugh can all be enhanced with the right piece of clothing.

10. Accessorize Thoughtfully

Accessories are a wonderful way to personalize your look, but less is more. A few simple, subtle pieces — a dainty necklace, a soft scarf, or a stylish hat — can elevate your outfit without stealing the show. Avoid oversized or overly shiny accessories that could distract from your natural beauty. The goal is to complement, not compete.

11. Don’t Forget About Shoes

Shoes can be the finishing touch to your outfit. Avoid overly casual footwear like flip-flops or worn-out sneakers, as they can detract from a polished look. Choose shoes that complement your outfit and make sense for the location and weather. Leather sandals, flats, boots, loafers, or dress shoes are great options. If you’ll be walking on uneven terrain, bring a comfortable pair for getting around and switch into your photo-ready shoes when it’s time to shoot.

12. Plan Ahead and Try on Your Outfit

Do yourself a favour and try on your full outfit a few days before the shoot. This includes shoes and accessories! Make sure everything fits, feels good, and looks great together. This gives you time to make adjustments and ensures you’ll feel confident and ready when it’s time for the shoot.

13. Pay Attention to Personal Grooming (Hair, Makeup, & Nails)

Grooming can make a big difference in how polished and confident you feel. Style your hair in a way that reflects your personal style. If needed, schedule a trim or colour touch-up before your shoot. Keep makeup natural — matte products photograph best, while shimmery or dewy products can make you look overly shiny. A simple lip balm or neutral lip colour is a nice touch. Lastly, don’t forget about your hands — clean, trimmed nails free of any chipped polish are a must. A fresh coat of neutral or classic nail polish can be a nice touch if you like wearing it.

14. Pack an Extra Outfit (Or Two—Seriously, You’ll Thank Me!)

For longer sessions, always, always pack an extra outfit (or at least a few layers). It’s a game-changer! You can switch up your look with minimal hassle — think a jacket, cardigan, or another top that can give you a totally different look. Plus, you’ll have a backup in case of spills. Trust me, I’ve seen it happen (and not just with kids). Spills, mud, or even a rogue coffee splatter — an extra outfit will keep your session stress-free. Especially when photographing little ones, who seem to have a talent for getting dirty in record time!

15. Empty Your Pockets

Before your session, check your pockets and remove anything that might create awkward bulges—keys, phones, wallets, or loose change. It’s a small detail that can make a big difference in your photos.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right outfit for your upcoming photo session doesn’t have to be stressful. Stick with neutral tones, avoid distracting patterns, dress for the weather, and pay attention to grooming. Most importantly, pick something that reflects you — something that makes you glow from the inside out.

Ready to take some stunning portraits? Let’s chat! I’m a professional portrait, event, and wedding photographer based on Vancouver Island, and I’d love to help bring your vision to life!

Still have no clue what to wear?

→ Maybe you’re a visual learner too. Check out the mood board I created down below for some inspiration!

→ Schedule a complimentary Discovery Meeting by clicking here. I’d love to guide you through the process and help you chose the perfect outfit!