Portrait Style Guide: Making the Case for Casual
When people think of portrait sessions, they often imagine polished outfits, formal poses, and a lot of stress over what to wear. But what if I told you that the best portraits don't necessarily require dressing up at all? Embracing a casual wardrobe can actually elevate the final result in ways you might not expect. Here's why opting for a laid-back look can be the perfect choice for your next photoshoot.
1. It Puts the Focus on You, Not Your Outfit
When you wear a simple, comfortable outfit, the focus remains squarely on you—your personality, your expressions, and your unique presence. After all, a portrait is meant to capture you, not a fashion moment. Wearing a casual outfit ensures that your true self shines through, rather than getting overshadowed by an elaborate ensemble.
A relaxed wardrobe keeps distractions at bay. Rather than viewers getting caught up in intricate patterns or formal attire, their attention is drawn to your smile, your eyes, and the subtle details that make you you.
2. It's Easy to Plan
Planning what to wear for a formal portrait session can quickly become overwhelming—especially if you're aiming for an elegant, coordinated look. Casual attire, on the other hand, is far easier to plan. You likely already have everything you need in your closet, making the whole process stress-free.
This not only saves time but also eliminates the pressure to coordinate different outfits. No need to worry about matching a blazer to a shirt or which heels go with which dress. The simplicity of casual clothing allows you to focus on enjoying the photoshoot experience, rather than fretting over your outfit.
3. No Need to Buy New Clothes
One of the biggest misconceptions about portrait photography is the idea that you need to buy new, expensive outfits to look your best. However, the truth is that what you wear doesn't need to be new or extravagant. In fact, wearing something familiar can lead to better photos.
Clothes you've worn before fit you comfortably, and you’re more likely to feel confident in them. Plus, you're not burdened with unnecessary costs just to prepare for your photoshoot. So, before rushing to the store, take a look at your favorite casual pieces—they might be exactly what you need.
4. You’ll Feel Comfortable and Relaxed
Comfort is key when it comes to getting great photos. Stiff, uncomfortable clothes can make you feel awkward, and that tension will show in the pictures. Casual clothing allows you to feel more at ease, which translates to natural, authentic expressions.
When you're comfortable, you're more likely to relax, smile, and enjoy the moment. This leads to better photos because the camera captures not just how you look, but how you feel. A casual vibe allows you to settle into the shoot, resulting in more candid, heartfelt images.
How to Successfully Style a Casual Look
Of course, embracing casual doesn't mean you should just throw on anything and call it a day. To make casual work beautifully for your portraits, here are a few key tips:
Coordinate a pleasing color/style scheme: Think about the colors in your outfit and how they complement each other. Soft neutrals, pastels, or earth tones work well for a cohesive look. Choose shades that flatter your complexion and avoid clashing patterns. Keep it simple yet intentional.
Keep the vibe consistent: Similar to choosing a color scheme, each individual’s look should work within the whole. Don’t put dad in polo shirt and while mom taps into her inner earth-mama goddess. Instead, compliment mom’s boho vibe by putting dad in a worn pair of jeans and plain tee or linen button down.
Show some skin: Casual doesn’t have to be overly modest. I love how the mom in these pictures is wearing underwear and showing her belly. To echo her level of undress, I suggested she let her son go shirtless. Having the bump and the boy uncovered breaks up the silhouette in an interesting way. It also helps create a natural, easy-going vibe.
Remember that casual doesn’t mean sloppy: While it’s okay to wear a relaxed outfit, make sure your clothes are clean, wrinkle-free, and well-fitting. The goal is to look effortlessly put-together, not careless. Consider classic wardrobe staples like well-fitted jeans, a simple t-shirt, or a soft sweater. These can all look polished when chosen with care.
By embracing casual attire, you’re letting your personality take center stage. You’ll feel more comfortable, avoid the hassle of overthinking your wardrobe, and end up with portraits that are authentic, warm, and uniquely you. So, next time you're planning a portrait session, consider leaving the formal wear behind and opting for something a bit more casual. You might just find that it makes all the difference.
Looking for a photographer along the Gulf Coast to capture some casual everyday portraits for you? You’re my favorite kind of client! Reach out to schedule your session today!
