Planning your portrait
Slimming Colors and Ideas
Most people prefer to look a little slimmer than they are; yes it's true that a camera adds ten pounds (at least). BUT, most photographers can correct that plus subtract a few extra pound by proper posing, turning your body to a better angle, and adjusting the camera angle or height. But it makes a big difference if you do the following:
To look slimmer try these:
Darker Colors are slimming. Consider Black, Olive, Gray, Navy, Plum, Burgundy, Dark Brown, or Eggplant.
Solid colors (monochromatic) are slimming
One color (darker) head to toe is slimming
Vertical lines are sliming, consider vertical pleats or a long chain
Instant flatter stomach: try pants with a flat front, No drawstrings, pockets, zippers, or decorations.
No pockets! avoid a lot or bulky pockets that draw attention to the waist area.
Dark, Dull Cool colors recede (slim), warm colors advance
Use eye catching, shiny jewelry or objects to avert attention away from problem areas
Simple lines are slimming, consider A Line Skirts, collared blazers and blouses
Shoulder pads (small rounded) have a slimming effect
Single breasted jackets or blazers are slimming
Heels add height and therefore are slimming on a full length portrait.
An interesting or long neckline draws attention from other areas
Good posture always makes you look slimmer
Wear your proper size. You'll look slimmer in clothes that fit properly rather than too tight.
To look slimmer AVOID these:
Lighter colors (white, most pastels etc) make you look heavier
Bold patterns, shiny fabrics, heavy fabrics make you look heavier
Short sleeves make upper arms look wider
Do not draw additional attention to the waist area so avoid any horizontal dividing lines, like belts or a different color.
Horizontal lines make you look heavier avoid belts and wide collars or wide lapels
Double breasted jackets or blazers add weight
More Tips
For family groups, it's important to coordinate colors in the same tonal range so that no single family member stands out because their clothing is too bright as compared to the rest of the group. Also, coordinating colors has the psychological effect of showing closeness in the family.
Another thing to consider when selecting colors is the location of the final print. If it will hang in the den over the sofa, you should try to incorporate the color scheme of the room into your clothing choices.
Choose outfits that fit your personality and make you feel attractive. Create color harmony and ensure that all outfits are coordinated. Avoid patterns or stripes; solid, neutral color look best. Avoid wearing short skirts or shorts, as they make posing more difficult. Long, flowing dresses, jeans, and khakis make better selections.
Sleeveless shirts or tops with very short sleeves are sometimes very unflattering in portraits, and should be avoided.
Because shoes often show in portraits, ensure that the shoes you wear compliment your clothing. However, bare feet also works in many cases.