Dress for Success: How Female Photographers Can Dress for Comfort, Function, and Style

Photography

Jan 28

I’ve been doing freelance photography for years now and, as per the usual, I’ve learned what NOT to do in these situations.

A few things I’ve learned the hard way:

Always be modest. Wear clothes that suit the occasion, but blend in (you want to be invisible). Stick to black, it’s easy and classy, and hides sweat (I’m just being real). On that note, you want your clothes to be comfortable and stretchy because as photographer you may be running around, crouching, jumping… you never know. No long necklaces, ever. They get in the way of your camera. No bangles or anything that makes noise. If you want to dress up an outfit with jewelry, keep it simple. Always air on the side of being more dressy, but never too formal (even at a wedding, you are not a guest, you are there to work and blend in)

In short, think business casual meets goth.

Always, keep it simple.

When in doubt, wear a plain black shirt and plain black pants.

(Another quick note, I own half of these clothes. I did not pick them out at random, and I am not getting paid for this.)

Now let's get into it, I've picked out a few outfit ideas you could wear for each type of shoot. All of these options are from amazon. They are affordable and would look great on any body type.

Wedding or other formal event:

ACEVOG Womens Bow Tie Neck Long/Short Sleeve Casual Office Work Chiffon Blouse Shirts Tops https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06XD8HYB9/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_M0D2K4F76ZQN19RWNDD3

Any nice, classy top that can be tucked into a skirt or pants will do. Make sure it's modest and formal.

Yige Women's High Waist Flared Skirt Pleated Midi Skirt with Pocket https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071XL8RFC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_FFB0DCXQFWEKEGD81R45

This skirt is great because it is, again, modest. It also provides plenty of freedom of movement while being a step up from dress pants.

Capezio Women's Tb41 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001GBIX4M/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_XDW32B0DCDM1X01DFR40

This outfit is a little more edgy while still being formal. I've chosen a black, turtleneck long sleeve bodysuit. Again, any simple, black shirt will do, but make sure it's not too casual.

Made By Johnny Women's Pleated Wide Leg Palazzo Pants with Drawstring https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07DLHB374/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_AJ6GK09RF75MESRT1DBB?psc=1

These pants are my go-to for any nice event. They are lightweight and breathable, they are comfortable and flexible. They look dressy even though they are pants. I highly recommend these pants.

Engagement, family shoot or any other classy and modest occasion:

Milumia Women's Casual V Neckline Short Sleeve Self Tie Dressy Work Blouse Tunic Tops https://www.amazon.com/dp/B079DN1CNX/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_ENS20FFSSMZR0TWYQ839

Again, the top is flexible, but this one makes you look professional and classy, while still being comfortable.

Bamans Women’s Ultra Soft Work Pull on Slim Skinny Pants Stretch Office Leggings, Dress Yoga Pants with Ankle Length https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07FMLLMVY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_AC23W2KAZ8BBH6BZC3YB

These pants look like dress pants, but they are athletic, comfortable material. This means they are stretchy and comfortable while still appearing classy and mature.

SUNRO Women's Long Sleeves Round Neck Bodysuits Jumpsuits https://www.amazon.com/dp/B076YZ4XJP/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_6EMCZYAGCRSY6Y1AN4Q4

Say it with me, any black top will do! I've chosen another bodysuit, these are great because they tuck into anything without having to be fidgeted with or adjusted.

Limited-time deal: GRACE KARIN Women's Cropped Paper Bag Waist Pants with Pockets https://www.amazon.com/dp/B077N5R4BQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_dl_HZMFYFQ3D5A6NEZXMJES?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

These pants are very cute, the bow adds a nice touch to make it look a step up from regular dress pants. But again, they are lightweight, comfortable and breathable.

Any other more casual shoot:

Romwe Women's Loose Ruffle Hem Short Sleeve High Low Peplum Blouse Top https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07534146M/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_AT4RV495MHZKFJ31RF30

Again, a simple but cute and modest black top.

AJISAI 7/8 Joggers Travel Pants with Pockets Lounge Casual Stretch Workout Pants for Women https://www.amazon.com/dp/B081PLRGK6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_ZE6QWV47DT0ZWK3JXN5R?psc=1

These are the star of the show, I swear by these pants. They go with any outfit, they are athletic material so they are insanely comfortable and stretchy, but they aren't skin tight like regular leggings so they look a bit more modest.

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