Last month we had the pleasure of photographing Julie and Stein who wanted some relaxed couples portraits in our studio.

Julie and Stein are a very romantic couple who seem very much in love, and the adult portraits here are a good example of a style which is both casual and relaxed and also artistic and classical due to the black and white treatment.

I thought this shoot would be a good opportunity to discuss clothing options for this kind of adult portrait shoot.

Here are some suggestions to help you choose clothing that is both relaxed and also looks great in classic portraits like these:

• choose contrasting tops – notice that Julie and Stein didn’t choose simple black and white, but Stein is wearing a charcoal shirt which offsets a jet black background.
• These photos wouldn’t have worked as well if they had been wearing the same hue (the classical white shirt and blue jeans) – by dressing differently we get a sense of each person’s personality.
• Block colours – I’ve noticed that most photographers recommend wearing block colours. While it’s true that block colours are usually a better option than really fussy patterns or logos, your clothing doesn’t have to be completely plain. Julie’s top has a pretty frill which is really feminine, while stein’s top is actually enhanced by a subtle logo on his shoulder and some fine details.
• More about block colours – In some ways this recommendation has to do with a problem that was present in early digital printing and digital cameras which had inadequate ultra-violet filtering. This would cause colours to “fringe” and bleed into each other. It’s not such a problem with good technique and modern equipment!
• For these kinds of portraits I recommend “smart casual” – that is, think of what you would wear out on a Friday night or to a dinner party with friends.
• Also, remember the “tuxedo” rule – a man wearing a tuxedo is never overdressed. Everyone else is instantly underdressed! Now we’re not suggesting all of our male clients wear a tux, but don’t be afraid to glam up, you really can’t be too well dressed in a portrait!
• A good technique is to look in your wardrobe for pieces that you love, but may not have had a chance to wear for a long time – those pieces for which there never seems to be the right occasion.
• Most of all, express yourself! Remember that most of these suggestions are relative, and mean something slightly different to everyone.

Part of our service at Cooper Studio is to discuss individual clothing ideas with our clients. For more information about adult portraits call us on 1300 305 410.