What to Wear to Your Kids Modelling Portfolio Session

Getting the outfits right makes a real difference to your child's portfolio. The good news is it doesn't need to be complicated. Here's everything you need to know before your session.

The golden rule
Bring more than you think you need. If you arrive with plenty of options I can look through everything with you and tell you exactly what will work best. There's no such thing as too many choices.

Avoid logos and busy prints
This is the single most important thing. Logos, large graphics and busy patterns pull focus away from your child's face, and the face is everything in a modelling portfolio. Keep tops clean and simple.

The three outfit approach
I recommend thinking about your outfits in three distinct looks.

Look one: Simple and classic A white t-shirt and shorts is a perfect starting point. Clean, fresh and universally what agencies want to see. Simple always photographs beautifully.

Look two: Smart and polished Something a little more formal for the second look. For girls, a dress works perfectly. For boys, a pair of chinos and a shirt. This gives your child's portfolio some range and shows they can clean up well.

Look three: Their favourite Something your child loves wearing. An outfit that feels like them. This is often where the most natural expressions come through because they feel comfortable and like themselves.

Shoes
Don't stress too much about shoes. I actually prefer bare feet as it gives a cleaner, more natural look, especially for younger children. If your child is older, a simple pair of plain shoes with no logos will work well for the smarter looks.

For girls: hair
Arrive with your daughter's hair down. Bring along some hair ties, clips and headbands so we can create different looks across the session. Something as simple as hair up versus hair down can make two images look completely different, which is exactly what a portfolio needs.

Still not sure?
Bring it anyway and I'll have a look on the day. I'll always point you in the right direction before we start shooting.