When planning a photo shoot, just picking the right lighting and camera equipment is not enough. The styling of a model can make or break an image, so it is no surprise that many photographers worry their faulty fashion sense will result in bad photos. However, the reality is that photo shoot styling is not as abstract and subjective as it might seem. Styling for photo shoots can be broken down into these four, easily managed subjects.
Color
Of course, this is one of the first things to consider in any styling. Think about the main colors in the background and choose clothing in shades that will complement or contrast with surroundings. An easy way to pair colors is selecting either a complementary color at the opposite end of the color wheel or a color that is right next to the primary hue on the color wheel. Pick something a few shades lighter or darker than the background to ensure the eye is drawn to the model.
Layers
Turning basic clothing into an intentional outfit is all about layering. For example, a scarf tied around the neck or a cardigan draped over the shoulders makes a plain tee shirt and jeans look interesting. When layering clothing items, be sure to consider accessories. Play with different colors and proportions to get the most excitement from layers. They can be used as a point of focus to draw attention to the face or parts of the body.
Uniqueness
Photo shoots are often meant to express the personality of the subject, so try to think outside the box. Things like a personalized jacket, family heirloom jewelry, or quirky pair of shoes can turn a simple shot into an image that captures the character of a person.
Texture
Photography is all about capturing light and shadows, and the right texture ensures that the photographer has a lot to work with. Select fabrics like knits, denim, lace, leather, rubber, or fur that have unusual textures, and look for clothing with ruffles, pleats, folds, or other structural types of texture. Strong textures can call attention to the model even when there is not a lot of colors in a photo, and it adds visual interest to plain shots.