Actors and Models have the important task of keeping their portfolios up to date. If you are an actor or a model, you know that your most recent portfolio is the best representation of your craft. Meaning, your portfolio should showcase your range and versatility with your craft. So preparing for your photo shoot ahead of time with the right clothing and accessories will be key to creating a fabulous portfolio!
What To Wear to Your Photo Shoot For Actors & Models
As a photographer who has worked with countless actors and models during their photo shoots, and as a fashion major who studied in Europe, I have the unique perspective of understanding what works best in front of the camera. And, because wardrobe is one of the most common things I discuss with my clients before their sessions, I wanted to provide my insight on what to wear to your photo shoot, for actors and models!
Your Character or Archetype
The first thing actors and models need to consider when selecting what to wear for their photo shoot is their character or archetype. As an actor, you are hired to tell the visual aspect of a story through your character. You have to examine how your look, during your photo shoot, will showcase your range in portraying this character in order to convey the story!
Some common characters and archetypes that I work with my clients on in front of the camera are:
- The good guy/girl
- The popular guy/girl
- The guy/girl next door
- The bad guy/girl
- The professional guy/girl
It’s plain to see how each of these characters will require a different selection of attire and accessories to tell the story. The person next door will require a look that makes them seem accessible and approachable. While the more sinister character will need to appear off-putting, with a more ominous aura.
What Type of Clothing Makes the Character?
Now that you have an idea of what character(s) you will portraying at your photo shoot, how will you bring them to life through the details of your attire? As a photographer who works with actors & models in Atlanta and beyond, I have a few hard and fast rules about attire!
- Your clothes should feel comfortable, but also provide you with a sense of confidence
- Avoid clothing with logos and branding
- If you are portraying a versatile range of characters, bring a variety of clothing that I can help style into several different looks
- Avoid clothing that has busy patterns, or large stripes
- Details make the look! Belts, ties, and layering pieces can pull together a highly desirable look to create a successful portfolio
Need to portray a multitude of characters for your photo shoot? I love consulting with my models and actors, prior to meeting in person, on what they should wear in front of the camera. This allows me to make suggestions based on elements like their eye color. While also asking them questions about their character! Questions such as where is your character from? What is their disposition? And lastly, what is their financial background? Need a visual guide on how to put pieces together for your next photo shoot? You can find me on Pinterest, where heaps of ideas will be right at your fingertips!
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