Simple Style Tips for Beautiful, Timeless Portraits
School photo day is almost here—and with it comes the inevitable question: “What should my child wear?”
If you’ve chosen Fine Art School Portraits this year, you’ve already taken the first step toward a more thoughtful, natural approach to school photography. These aren’t your typical stiff, smile-and-snap images. Instead, they’re honest, relaxed, and beautifully simple.
And when it comes to what your child should wear, the same principles apply.
Keep It Simple
For Fine Art School Portraits, simplicity is key. I photograph each child against a clean, neutral backdrop—usually black or white—to gently draw attention to their natural expression, not what they’re wearing. This means we want clothing that supports, not competes with, your child’s personality.
What works best:
- Solid colors in soft, muted, or earthy tones
- Classic textures like knits, linen, or cotton
- Neutrals (like cream, oatmeal, gray, navy, rust, olive, soft pink)
Think timeless, not trendy. We want these images to feel just as special ten years from now as they do today.
Avoid Loud Prints and Logos
Bright colors, busy patterns, and graphic tees can all distract from what really matters in these portraits—your child’s eyes, expression, and spirit. Try to avoid:
- Neon colors (these reflect light and cast odd tones on the face)
- Bold stripes or plaids
- Logos, writing, or character designs
Focus on the Fit
These portraits are typically framed from the chest or shoulders up, so you’ll want to make sure that whatever your child wears fits well—especially around the neckline. Loose collars or oversized tops can distract from an otherwise lovely image.
A simple crewneck, Henley, or soft sweater tends to photograph beautifully.
Less is More with Accessories
While a favorite bow or headband can be sweet, I recommend keeping accessories to a minimum—especially anything that might shift or cover part of the face. The goal is to highlight your child’s features and natural expression, not the things they’re wearing.
If your child wears glasses daily, they’re absolutely welcome to wear them in the photo.
Keep Hair Simple
No need for elaborate hairstyles. A quick brush and making sure hair is out of the eyes is usually all that’s needed. If your child is due for a haircut, try to schedule it about a 4-7 days before photo day so it looks settled and natural.
Most Importantly… Let Them Be Themselves
The most beautiful portraits come from a child who feels comfortable and seen. So above all, choose an outfit that your child feels good in. Something soft, something familiar, something they can move and breathe in.
This photo isn’t about perfection. It’s about presence—capturing them as they are, in this season of life.
A Quick Checklist:
- Solid, neutral or muted-colored top
- No logos or graphics
- Well-fitting neckline
- Simple hair, tidy and out of eyes
- Minimal accessories
- Comfort > style
- Lots of love
I can’t wait to see your child in front of my lens and to create beautiful photos for you to cherish for years! If you have any questions about what to wear, or if you’d like to double-check an outfit choice, feel free to reach out. I’m always happy to help.
With Joy,
Amanda
Mae Taylor Photography
