White Shirt and Jeans....hmmm

[naeno]

I realize that this combination has been done more times than I can count in family portraits. I have a shoot coming up next month and the family told me they want to wear white shirts and jeans. I generally recommend that people wear something in the same color family, but not necessarily identical colors. Since eyes are drawn to the brightest portion, it would seem to me that the white shirts would actually detract from the faces (which should be the focus in a portrait like this). I sent them my clothing suggestions and they've asked if it's ok for them to wear the white shirt/jeans combo.

Anyway, ramblings aside, what are your thoughts on the white shirt/jeans combo? Should I just deal with my hang ups, or suggest that they consider something else?

[zona5101]

maybe you can ask them all to bring a sweater/vest/jacket/pull over. Then you can shoot the white shirt jeans they want and shoot some that have a little more life and color with the added tops. Maybe they can bring a top that says something about them, like a sports team for the boy or a bbq apron for dad, a feather boa for the little princess, maybe a suit jacket for mom etc...

[Benji]

If everyone is dressed in white long sleeved shirts the eye will immediately recognize that fact and ignore all that white (just as it does when we use a white background.) BUT if one or more are in short sleeves the eye will be drawn to the naked arms.

Benji

[OsmosisStudios]

See the attached image.

The inner ring is good for darker backgrounds, the other ring for lighter backgrounds and details.

[naeno]

Thanks for those ideas! I'll ask if they can all be long sleeved shirts and go from there. I really appreciate it!