NM Exposure

You’ve done the hard part. You’ve scrolled through portfolios, fell in love with a style, and officially booked your session with NM Exposure. You’ve marked the calendar, and the excitement is building. Then, it hits you, the age-old, pre-photoshoot panic: "What on earth are we going to wear?"

Don’t worry; you aren’t alone. Aside from "How much does it cost?" the question of wardrobe is the most common one we hear. And it makes sense! These photos aren't just for a quick social media post; they are destined for your living room walls, your office desk, and heirlooms for the next generation.

While we’re firm believers that your connection and personality are the real stars of the show, the right outfit acts as the perfect supporting cast. It sets the mood, complements the environment, and ensures that when you look at your portraits ten years from now, you’re looking at you, not a dated fashion choice.

The Golden Rules of Photoshoot Fashion

Before we dive into specific session types, let’s lay down some universal laws of the lens. These apply whether you’re doing a professional business headshot or a wild family romp through a field.

1. Say No to Neon (and Giant Logos)

Neon colors are a photographer’s kryptonite. Why? Because they "cast" color onto your skin. If you wear a neon pink shirt, your chin and neck are likely going to have a bright pink glow in every photo. Unless you’re going for a radioactive aesthetic, stick to colors found in nature. Similarly, giant logos or "Graphic Tees" draw the eye away from your face. We want people to see your smile, not the brand of your sweatshirt.

2. Embrace the Earthy and Neutral

When in doubt, think neutrals. Cream, tan, olive green, dusty blue, mustard yellow, and rust are all winners. These tones are timeless and work beautifully with almost any backdrop, from the urban streets of Worcester to the greenery of Moore State Park. They create a sophisticated look that feels warm and inviting.

3. Texture is Your Best Friend

Since we often recommend avoiding busy patterns (which can look "noisy" on camera), how do you keep an outfit from looking boring? Texture! Think chunky knits, lace, denim, linen, or embroidery. Texture adds depth and visual interest to a photo without being distracting.

4. Fit is Everything

The camera doesn't see things quite the same way the human eye does. Clothes that are too baggy can make you look larger than you are, while clothes that are too tight can create unflattering lines. Aim for "tailored" rather than "tight." Ensure your sleeves are the right length and your shoulders sit where they should.

Family Portraits: Coordinated, Not Matching

Gone are the days of everyone wearing white t-shirts and blue jeans. Please, for the love of all things aesthetic, let the "uniform" look stay in the 90s. Modern family portraits look best when the family "coordinates" rather than "matches."

Start with an "Anchor"

The easiest way to style a family is to pick one person to be the "anchor." Usually, this is Mom or the person with the most complex outfit (like a floral dress). Once you have that anchor outfit, pull colors from it for everyone else. If Mom’s dress has hints of navy, cream, and sage green, then Dad can wear navy chinos, one child can wear a sage sweater, and another can wear a cream-colored romper.

Consider the Kids' Movement

If you have toddlers, they are going to run, jump, and sit on the ground. Make sure their outfits allow for that! Avoid stiff fabrics that restrict them or dresses that require constant adjusting. Also, check for "diaper peek." Rompers or bloomers over diapers are a lifesaver for the little ones.

Maternity: Celebrating the Bump

Maternity sessions are a beautiful way to document the incredible journey of your body. The goal here is to highlight that beautiful bump while making you feel like a goddess.

Flowy and Form-Fitting

You have two great options here. First, the flowy, "boho" style dress. These are great because they add a sense of movement and romance, especially for outdoor sessions. Second, a form-fitting jersey or knit dress. These are fantastic for showing off the actual silhouette of the belly.

Soft Fabrics and Empire Waists

Look for empire waists (where the seam is right under the bust). This naturally draws the eye to the bump. Fabrics like lace or soft jersey add a touch of femininity and elegance.

We recommend checking out our maternity gallery for inspiration on how different fabrics catch the light.

Professional Headshots: The 3-Second Impression

In the business world, your headshot is often the first thing a client sees. You want to look approachable, capable, and professional.

Solid Colors Win

For headshots, avoid busy patterns like small checkers or thin stripes, as they can cause an optical illusion called "moiré" on digital screens (where the lines look like they are vibrating). Solid, mid-to-dark tones like navy, charcoal, or deep jewel tones are usually the most flattering.

The Power of the Layer

A well-fitting blazer or cardigan can instantly elevate a look. It adds structure to your shoulders and creates a polished silhouette. Ensure that your undershirt or blouse isn't bunching up underneath the outer layer.

The Often-Forgotten Details

Don’t Forget the Shoes!

You can spend hundreds on a beautiful dress, but if you show up in beat-up sneakers or flip-flops, it will pull the whole look down. For men, leather boots or clean loafers work well. For women, wedges or flat sandals are great for outdoor sessions, while heels add a touch of glam for studio work. If we’re in a field, avoid stilettos: you’ll just sink!

Grooming Matters

Check your nails! In close-up shots, your hands will be visible (especially in maternity and newborn sessions). You don't need a professional manicure, but clean, trimmed nails (or a fresh coat of neutral polish) go a long way. Also, if you’re planning a haircut, do it about a week before the session so it has time to "settle."

Layers and Accessories

Scarves, hats, and jewelry can add personality, but keep them simple. We want the focus on your face, not your giant statement necklace. Layers are also great for variety; taking off a jacket can give you a completely different "look" without a full outfit change.

Confidence: Your Best Accessory

We can give you all the fashion advice in the world, but the most important thing you can wear is confidence. If you feel uncomfortable in a high-fashion gown, it will show in your face. If you feel "stiff" in a three-piece suit, your poses will look stiff too.

Choose clothes that make you feel like the best version of yourself. When you feel good, you stand taller, smile brighter, and interact more naturally with your loved ones. Those candid, joyful moments are what we’re really after.

Let NM Exposure Guide You

At NM Exposure, we don't just show up and press a button. We are here to help you through the entire process, from location scouting to wardrobe consulting. If you’re stuck between two outfits, send us a photo! We love helping our clients curate the perfect look for their portrait sessions.

Whether you’re looking for a family session, a modeling portfolio, or even glam photography, we’ve got your back.

Ready to get in front of the lens? Contact us today to book your session and let’s start planning your perfect look!