How to Choose the Best Outfits for Your Sedona Portrait Session

Choosing outfits for a portrait session can feel like one more stressful decision on your to-do list—but it doesn’t have to be! What you wear really does make a huge difference in how your photos look and feel. The right outfit not only complements your location but also helps you feel confident, comfortable, and authentically yourself.

Here’s a guide to help you plan the perfect look for your portrait session.

Colors That Work Best

One of the most impactful choices you’ll make is color. I’ve found that neutrals, muted shades, and jewel tones pair beautifully with outdoor landscapes. These tones not only photograph well but also allow your personality—not just your outfit—to shine through.

A few things to consider:

• Match the landscape, but don’t disappear into it. Think about the setting—are we surrounded by deep greens in the woods, glowing red rocks, or shimmering blue water? If we’re in the forest, try colors opposite green on the color wheel (like burgundy, plum, or rust). At the lakeshore, warm tones like burnt orange or mustard pop beautifully against cool blues.
• Complement, don’t copy. You don’t need to match your partner or family members exactly. Coordinating with complementary colors creates visual harmony without looking like you’re in uniforms.
• Be cautious with white. Pure white reflects a lot of light, which can wash out skin tones in bright sunshine, but can look really great in overcast or soft light. Off-whites, creams, and soft tans tend to photograph better.
• Play with mood. Wearing colors similar to the background creates a more ethereal, blended aesthetic, while contrasting colors make you stand out boldly. It just depends on the vibe you’re going for!

Pro tip: If you’re unsure, a color wheel can help you see which shades pair best.

Patterns: Friend or Foe?

Patterns can be wonderful—or distracting. The key is balance.

• Subtle is safer. Small, delicate patterns (like florals, stripes, or dots) usually work well, especially if the background isn’t too busy.
• Bold patterns stand out. If your location is simple (say, a wide-open desert or a snowy field), a bold patterned dress or shirt can look incredible.
• Bring options. If you’re not sure whether a pattern will work, pack a solid-colored backup outfit. That way, you’ll have flexibility when we see how it looks on location.

Fabrics That Move With You

Your outfit doesn’t just need to look great—it needs to feel great, too.

• Comfort first. We may be hiking to reach your session spot, so breathable fabrics are your best friend. Don’t worry, I bring a little changing tent if you’d rather change once we arrive.
• Movement is magical. Long, flowy fabrics (think skirts, dresses, or scarves) catch the wind beautifully and add a sense of motion to your photos.
• Skip the shine. Shimmery or reflective fabrics can bounce light in unflattering ways, so it’s best to avoid them.

Shoes: Style Meets Safety

This one might sound obvious, but it’s worth saying—wear shoes you can safely walk in! Many outdoor locations involve dirt trails, uneven rocks, or sandy ground.

• Good grip is key. A sturdy pair of boots or sneakers will make the journey easier. You can always pack your “photo shoes” to swap in once we’re at the spot.
• Skip the stilettos. High heels and nature rarely mix. If you love the look of heels, go for block heels or wedges—and consider heel stoppers to keep you from sinking into soft ground.
• Your safety matters most. I am wilderness first-aid certified, but I’d rather keep our session accident-free. ;)

Accessories: The Final Touch

Accessories are a beautiful way to add personality, but a few things to keep in mind:

• Keep it you. Jewelry, hats, scarves, or other personal touches are wonderful—but subtle, timeless accessories tend to photograph best.
• Weather check. If it’s windy, hats can become a battle. And while I love a good wide-brim hat, I strongly discourage baseball caps since they cast heavy shadows across your face.
• Less can be more. A single statement piece often makes more impact than layering too many.

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, the most important thing is that you feel like you. The best photos come when you’re comfortable, confident, and free to simply enjoy the moment.

If you’re ever unsure, I’m more than happy to help you pick. You can send me photos of your outfit options, and we can decide together what will look amazing with your session location.

So take a deep breath, choose something that feels good, and let’s make some magic!