A Style Guide for Your Horse Portrait Session

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Choosing what to wear for your portrait session doesn’t need to feel stressful. These portraits are meant to be lived with and loved for years to come, and thoughtful wardrobe choices help ensure your images feel timeless, cohesive, and true to you.

This guide is designed to offer gentle direction — not rigid rules — so you can feel confident, comfortable, and fully present during your session.

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Plan Ahead for Ease

Taking time to plan your outfit in advance removes unnecessary stress on session day. Make sure everything fits comfortably and allows for natural movement — sitting, walking, or kneeling — without feeling restrictive.

Preparing clothing ahead of time also gives you the opportunity to steam or press garments and ensure everything feels ready and intentional.

Consider Where Your Artwork Will Live

Most clients choose to display their portraits in their home, so it’s helpful to consider your existing décor when selecting outfits.

If your space leans neutral and soft, clothing in complementary tones will help your artwork feel seamless once displayed. If your home features richer or darker hues, deeper colors can photograph beautifully as well. The goal is harmony — not distraction.

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Choose a Thoughtful Color Palette

Neutrals and earth tones photograph beautifully and tend to stand the test of time. Soft shades such as cream, beige, taupe, muted blues, and warm greens work especially well.

If you’re drawn to color, opt for softer or deeper tones rather than bright or highly saturated hues. When incorporating patterns, keep them subtle and minimal — texture adds far more interest than bold prints.

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Think Timeless Over Trendy

Portraits should feel just as beautiful years from now as they do today. Simple, classic styles tend to age gracefully and keep the focus on connection and expression rather than clothing.

If you’re unsure, choose pieces you already feel confident wearing — comfort shows beautifully in photographs.

Shoes Matter More Than You Think

Shoes are often overlooked but play an important role in the overall look. Choose clean, well-maintained footwear that complements your outfit.

For outdoor sessions, boots or neutral shoes photograph particularly well. Avoid athletic shoes or bright soles unless they’re part of an intentional look.

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Layers and Simple Accessories Add Depth

Layers such as jackets, vests, scarves, or light sweaters add visual interest and flexibility without requiring a full outfit change. Accessories should feel natural and understated — chosen to enhance, not overpower.

Less is often more.

What to Avoid

To keep your portraits feeling timeless:

• Avoid clothing with logos, slogans, or character graphics

• Steer clear of loud patterns or high-contrast prints

• Try not to schedule haircuts immediately before your session — allowing a few days helps hair settle naturally

• Avoid wearing sunglasses shortly before your session to prevent pressure marks

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Comfort Is the Most Important Element

The most important thing you can wear is something that feels like you. When you’re comfortable, relaxed, and confident, it shows — and those moments translate into meaningful, natural portraits.

I’m truly looking forward to creating these portraits with you and helping you preserve this season of your story in a way that feels effortless and authentic.

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Explore More

• Horse Portrait Sessions — fine art portraits that honor presence, partnership, and beauty

• Artwork & Portrait Products — learn how equine portraits are thoughtfully preserved

• Contact — reach out with questions or to begin planning

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