What to Wear for a Paris Photoshoot: Advice From a Paris Photographer
Updated: 2 days ago
After more than ten years photographing visitors in Paris, I hear this question before almost every session: "What should we wear?" The good news is that there is no wrong answer, and you don't need a stylist. A few simple choices make a real difference in your photos.
Start with the mood you want
Before choosing an outfit, think about what you want your photos to say. Relaxed vacation memories in Paris? A romantic, elegant couple portrait? A fun family day? Your outfits should match that idea.
From one session to the next, I photograph completely different styles, and I adapt to each of them. What matters is that your outfits fit the photos you want, and that you feel good in them.
Casual is perfectly fine
Many couples and families come to their session in their everyday clothes: jeans, sneakers, a simple shirt or a summer dress. It doesn't stop me from taking great photos. If you simply want natural, relaxed photos of your trip to Paris, casual clothes can look really good.
Want elegant photos? Dress the part
If you dream of very classy, editorial-style photos, the outfits need to follow: a beautiful dress, a suit or a tailored coat, polished shoes. The Eiffel Tower, the Louvre and the elegant streets of Paris are the perfect setting, but the clothes set the tone.
Matching or coordinated colors
Some families and couples come in matching colors, for example everyone in white, in pastels or in the same shade of pink. It can look great and really makes an impression in photos, especially for families and big groups.
If you prefer something more subtle, choose a palette of two or three colors that go together, like cream, navy and a touch of camel. Everyone looks like part of the same story, without looking like a uniform.
Pick colors that work with Paris
Paris is a city of pale stone, grey rooftops and green trees. Colors that stand out against that background photograph beautifully:
Solid, rich colors: red, emerald, cobalt blue, pink, mustard.
Soft neutrals for a timeless look: cream, beige, white, navy, black.
Small prints are fine. Avoid big logos and very busy patterns, which pull attention away from your faces.
Red is a classic for a reason: it stands out against the Eiffel Tower in every season.
Props and accessories
A few props can add a fun or personal touch to your photoshoot: balloons for a birthday, flowers, a wide hat, a scarf, a vintage umbrella, a sign for a special announcement. Keep it simple: one or two props are enough to create a few different photos without taking over the whole session. If you have an idea, tell me before the shoot and we'll plan the right spot for it.
Renting a dress in Paris
If you'd love a long, flowing dress for your photos but don't want to travel with it, you can rent one in Paris. I work with dress rental companies, so don't hesitate to contact me about it when you book: I'll tell you how it works and help you organize it.
Think about movement
Some of my favorite shots happen while you walk, turn or hold hands. Dresses and skirts that move a little, long coats and scarves all bring life to a picture.
Shoes: elegant but walkable
We usually walk between several spots, sometimes on cobblestones. Wear shoes you can walk in, and bring nicer ones for the photos if you like. I'll tell you when it's worth switching.
Dress for the season
Spring and autumn: a trench coat or a light jacket looks very Parisian.
Summer: light fabrics, and avoid colors that show heat, like light grey.
Winter: long coats, berets and scarves look great. Keep gloves for between shots.
Can you bring two outfits?
On a session of 1 hour or more, you can change once if there's a convenient spot nearby, like a café. On a 2-hour session with two areas, the move between locations is the perfect moment. For 30 minutes, I recommend a single outfit so we keep all the time for photos.
Hair, makeup and small details
Go slightly stronger than usual on makeup: natural light softens everything. Paris can be windy, so bring a hair tie or a few pins. If you'd like professional hair and makeup, I can recommend trusted partners when you book.
What to avoid
Neon colors and big logos
Brand-new shoes you've never walked in
Anything you don't feel comfortable in. If you feel good, it shows in the photos.
Not sure? Send me your options
Before your session, you can send me a photo of your outfits and I'll tell you honestly which one will look best in the location we've chosen.
Frequently asked questions
Can we wear casual clothes for a Paris photoshoot?
Yes. Many clients come in everyday clothes and the photos look great. Choose casual if you want natural vacation photos, and dress up if you want elegant, classy images.
Should families or couples wear matching outfits?
Both work. Matching colors can look great, especially for families. If you prefer something subtler, coordinate two or three colors that go well together.
Can I rent a dress for my photoshoot in Paris?
Yes. I work with dress rental companies in Paris. Contact me when you book and I'll help you organize it.
What colors look best at the Eiffel Tower?
Solid, rich colors like red, emerald, pink or cobalt blue stand out nicely. Soft neutrals like cream and navy give a more timeless look.
Can I change outfits during my Paris photoshoot?
Yes, on sessions of 1 hour or more. We plan a quick change at a convenient spot, ideally between two locations.
Planning your session? See my prices, read how much a photoshoot in Paris costs, or discover my Eiffel Tower photoshoot page and my guide to an Eiffel Tower night photoshoot.
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