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How to Dress for a Modeling Photo Shoot

Feb 23, 2011 / By Caroline Goddard

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Get ready for your close-up with the right outfits for your modeling photo shoot.

Photo: Leonard Mc Lane/Digital Vision/Getty Images

Hey there, supermodel. You've got your first modeling photo shoot coming up and you don't know what to wear? Chances are you are building your book, or portfolio of professional images that helps you get paying modeling work. The clothes you wear can make or break your images, so you want to choose pieces that make you look your best. Dress your best for a modeling photo shoot to ensure you look fierce. You better work!

Start with your swimsuit look--you may as well jump in head first and get all the awkwardness out of the way. Plus, by starting with your swimsuit you won't have to worry about getting lines on your skin from the clothes you'll be wearing later. Choose a two-piece swimsuit that makes the best of your assets. For example, a high-cut leg makes your own legs look longer, and a padded top gives a small bust a boost. Wear your high heels, even though they probably won't be seen in your photos. They will make your legs and butt look amazing!

Change into your casual look. Jeans in a medium, not trendy, wash with a top in a solid color that complements your skin tone and eyes is a fresh yet classic option. Your jeans should be snug, neither baggy nor painted on, in a flattering fit--no muffin top! Your top should be body-hugging, but not skin-tight. Avoid trapeze or empire-waisted tops, as they make you look like you're trying to hide a paunchy tummy. Remember, your first portfolio shots are about making YOU look amazing, not about the trendiest outfit or hottest-looking clothes. As fashion photographer Joe Edelman says, "If someone looks at your photos and comments on the outfit--you have failed."

Your third and final look will be dressy. Again, choose a solid color that complements your complexion and a shape that hugs your figure. This is about showing of what you've got! You're going for classy, not trashy, so keep your hemline to no shorter than four inches above your knee--that's the width of a square sticky note. Make sure your bra straps aren't showing, and that the bra you're wearing is the right fit with your dress. Wearing a thong will eliminate the chance of the dreaded VPL--visible panty lines.

1.Flesh-colored thong underwear and bra

3.Solid-colored tops

5.Two-piece swimsuits

2.Medium-wash jeans

4.Solid-colored dresses

6.Black high heels

Depending on the agreement you have with your photographer, you will probably be shooting more than one "look" or outfit. Bring multiple options for each look and ask the opinions of the photographer and makeup artist if one is around. They know what looks best in photos. If you must wear jewelry, keep it to a bare minimum-you want people to notice you, not your bling. Make sure you have a fresh mani-pedi with clear or neutral polish.

Avoid printed fabrics. They tend to take the attention away from your gorgeous face.

Don't wear tight clothing or anything that will leave marks on your skin the day of your photo shoot if you will be taking pictures in a swimsuit or lingerie, because those marks take hours to go away.