Choosing what your child should wear for a portrait session can feel surprisingly stressful. Many parents worry about getting it “right” — matching outfits, choosing special clothes, or buying something new just for photos. This guide explains what to wear for a personality portrait session, with a focus on comfort, neutral tones, and a timeless look.
For personality portraits, clothing plays a much quieter role. The goal isn’t to create a look, but to support your child’s comfort and let their expression take center stage.
Keep Clothing Simple and Comfortable
The most important guideline is comfort.
Clothes should allow your child to:
- move freely
- sit or stand comfortably
- forget about what they’re wearing
If something feels itchy, tight, or unfamiliar, children often show that discomfort through their body language.
Well-loved, comfortable clothing often photographs better than something brand new.
Neutral and Soft Tones Work Best
Neutral or soft tones photograph beautifully in black and white, and also translate well to color when included.
Good options include:
- creams, soft grays, beige, muted blues or greens
- simple textures, which can add quiet visual interest
- subtle patterns
These tones keep the focus on your child’s face rather than their clothing.
What to Avoid (When Possible)
Some clothing choices can be visually distracting or uncomfortable.
It helps to avoid:
- large logos or characters
- bold graphics or words
- very bright or neon colors
- stiff or overly formal outfits
These elements can draw attention away from expression and make images feel less timeless.
Accessories and Small Details
Accessories should be kept minimal so they don’t compete with your child’s expression.
It’s best to avoid:
- large bows or headbands
- statement jewelry
- anything that feels distracting or unfamiliar
If your child regularly wears something small and simple — like a subtle hair clip or elastic — that’s perfectly fine.
Hair and Faces on the Day of the Session
On the day of the session:
- style hair in a way that feels normal for your child
- gently wipe faces just before the photoshoot, especially around the mouth and nose
There’s no need for perfection — a clean, comfortable starting point is enough.
When in Doubt, Choose Familiar
If you’re unsure between two outfits, choose the one your child feels most like themselves in.
Personality portraits are not about styling — they’re about presence. Clothing should support that, quietly and comfortably.
Want to Learn More About Personality Portraits?
If you’d like to understand how clothing fits into the larger approach of personality portrait sessions, you can read more here: What Are Personality Portraits?
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