What Not to Wear to Your Brand Shoot (and What to Do Instead)
When you’re planning your first (or even your fifth) brand shoot, outfits are always the biggest question. You want to look good, feel comfortable, and still come across as professional. But just as important as knowing what to wear is knowing what not to wear to a brand shoot.
Here’s my no-nonsense guide to the things that don’t work on camera (and what to do instead).
1. Clothes That Don’t Fit Properly
Too tight and you’ll spend the whole shoot tugging and adjusting. Too baggy and you’ll disappear into your outfit. Neither will give you the confident, polished look you’re after.
Do this instead: Choose outfits that skim your shape and make you feel at ease. If you feel good, it shows.
We’ll work all this out at the pre-shoot planning call or you could get a professional stylist to help you.
2. Head-to-Toe Black
I know, black feels safe. But on camera, all-black outfits can look flat, shapeless and often not that flattering on your skin.
Do this instead: Mix in colour and texture. A blazer in your brand colours over neutral trousers will instantly add interest.
3. Uncomfortable Shoes
If you can’t walk (or stand) comfortably in them, don’t wear them. Pain shows in your body language, even if you’re smiling.
Do this instead: Bring stylish but comfy shoes, and if you love heels, pop them on just for the photos.
4. Clothes Covered in Logos or Slogans
Big logos or slogan tees date quickly and can distract from your actual message. Unless the slogan is actually something you want to be known for, its probably best to stick to plain tshirts and jumpers.
Do this instead: Go for timeless, logo-free pieces that won’t make you cringe when you look back at your photos.
6. Scruffy, Worn-Out Pieces
That “favourite jumper” you live in might feel cosy, but if it’s bobbly, faded, or stretched, the camera will pick it up. The same goes for scuffed shoes or accessories past their best.
Do this instead: Pick polished, fresh-looking outfits that reflect the standard you want your clients to see.
7. Anything Too Seasonal
Christmas jumpers? Easter pastels? Halloween orange? They might be fun at the time, but you’ll be stuck with seasonal photos that only feel right for a few weeks of the year.
Do this instead: Aim for versatile looks you can use across your website, social media, and marketing all year round. BUT feel free to bring seasonal outfits along if you just want a few photos or if the photos are specifically for a particular season.
Bonus Tip: Bring a Change of Clothes
Even if you’ve nailed the perfect outfit, bring a second option. It gives variety to your photos and means if the outfit you’ve chosen just isn’t working (for whatever reason) you’ll have options.
When it comes to what not to wear to your brand shoot, it really boils down to this: don’t wear anything that makes you uncomfortable, distracts from your face, or won’t stand the test of time. Your brand photos are an investment, so make sure your wardrobe choices work as hard as you do.
