What to wear for a city portrait session

Colours, textures and shoes you can actually walk in. Here is how it comes together, step by step.

Start with colour

Choose two or three colours that sit well together and repeat them. Soft neutrals, earthy tones and muted blues work beautifully against the stone and greenery of the city. Avoid very bright neon shades, which reflect onto skin and pull attention away from faces.

Texture over logos

Linen, knit, denim, wool and silk all photograph wonderfully because they catch the light. Large logos and busy prints date quickly and compete with the face, so keep them for another day.

Shoes you can walk in

Sessions involve walking, often on cobblestones. Bring shoes you can move in comfortably; you can always carry a second pair for a few seated frames if a particular outfit needs them.

Layers for movement

A coat, a scarf or a light jacket gives you something to do with your hands and adds movement to the photographs. Layers also let us change the look between locations without a full outfit change.

Hair and make-up

Natural light is kind, so keep make-up close to what you wear every day, with a little extra definition around the eyes. Bring a small powder for shine and a hairbrush; wind by the river is common.

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