LIFEGEM PHOTOGRAPHY

TRAVELLER
BASE IN BOWIE MARYLAND


lifegem photography

Inquire 

arrow

TravellER 
 base in BOWIE MARYLAND

learn together

education

Choosing the perfect colors for your photoshoot/event.

WHAT TO WEAR

 Your outfit colors can make a huge difference in how your photos look and feel. The right tones not only flatter your skin but also bring harmony and emotion to your portraits. Beautiful photos start with a plan  and color is the easiest way to create mood, harmony, and connection on camera. Here’s some option on how to choose the best colors for your shoot day.


1. Seasonal Inspiration
Season Recommended Colors
Spring Blush, mint, cream, soft blue/pastels & light neutrals.
Summer White, coral, olive, denim blue/breathable fabrics, light colors, denim.
Fall Rust, mustard, brown, forest green/layered textures, deep jewel tones.
Winter Burgundy, charcoal, navy, emerald/layers, rich solids, long coats.

 2. Stick to Neutrals and Earth Tones
Soft, timeless colors always photograph beautifully.
Beige, ivory, tan, cream.
Olive, sage, rust, terracotta.
Soft gray, charcoal, or navy.
These tones keep the focus on you, not your outfit.
Pro Tip: Mix different shades of the same neutral color for depth — for example, cream + tan or gray + white.

3. Pastels for a Soft, Airy Look
Pastel tones add a dreamy, romantic vibe to your images.
Dusty rose, blush, peach.
Lavender, soft blue, mint.
Light yellow or sage green.
They work beautifully for spring or outdoor sessions with natural light.

4. Rich, Deep Colors for Drama
If your shoot has moody lighting or bold backdrops, deeper colors pop perfectly.
Emerald green, burgundy, plum.
Navy blue, mustard, burnt orange.
These tones add sophistication and contrast — perfect for urban, studio, or fall sessions

5. Avoid Bright Neon & Busy Patterns

Super bright colors (like neon green or hot pink) can reflect onto your skin and distort natural tones.
Also, avoid:
Distracting logos.
Busy stripes or tiny patterns.
Shiny fabrics (they reflect light oddly).

6. Coordinate, Don’t Match (for Group Shoots)
When shooting with others, choose a color palette instead of identical outfits.
Warm neutrals (cream, tan, rust, olive).
Cool tones (navy, gray, soft blue, white).
This creates harmony and balance without looking too uniform.


Extra for couples


Coordinate, don’t match. Pick 2–4 colors and share them across both outfits.
Choose one focal piece. Let one person wear the stronger color and the other wear softer tones drawn from the same palette.
Mix textures, not loud patterns. Solid colors + subtle texture (knits, linen, suede) photograph best.
Avoid logos & neon. They distract and can reflect unwanted color onto skin.
Layers are your friend. Jackets, scarves, vests add depth and give variety during the session.

Sample outfit combos for different vibes

(Choose one palette and combine — scale up/down for day or evening.)
1) Casual & Cozy (Warm Neutrals)
Partner A: cream knit sweater, camel chinos, brown boots.
Partner B: olive button-up, cream scarf, dark denim.

2) Dreamy & Soft (Pastels)
Partner A: blush midi dress, simple sandals.
Partner B: powder-blue shirt, light-gray blazer, chinos.

3) Romantic & Dramatic (Rich Fall)
Partner A: burgundy dress or blouse, suede boots.
Partner B: charcoal coat, mustard scarf, dark jeans.

4) Modern & Sharp (Classic Cool)
Partner A: navy blazer, white shirt, slim trousers.
Partner B: dusty-blue blouse, slate skirt or pants, simple jewelry.

Tips for different body types & genders
Layers flatter most bodies — structured jackets create definition.
Vertical lines (open shirts, long cardigans) elongate.
Avoid clingy fabrics if you want a softer silhouette.
If one partner prefers bold color, let the other stay neutral to balance.

Pattern & texture guide
Small, repeating patterns can create moiré on camera — avoid micro-patterns.
Large patterns are okay if they don’t compete — use sparingly (one garment only).
Texture (knit, lace, suede) adds visual interest without overpowering.


No matter what colors you wear, make sure you feel confident and comfortable. Comfort shines through in every shot.