The Colors That Never Miss: What to Wear for Photos Based on Your Skin Tone
Choosing the right color can elevate your entire photoshoot. These are the shades that look stunning in photos — and work beautifully on every skin tone.
Whether you’re stepping into your first editorial shoot or your fifth creative era, one question always comes up:
“What should I wear that actually looks good in photos?”
If you’ve got melanin-rich skin, the usual Pinterest boards filled with beige on beige and washed-out whites? They won’t do you justice. At TIKA Studios, I’ve photographed artists, creatives, and humans across the spectrum of brown — and here’s what I know:
The right color doesn’t just match your outfit — it magnifies your presence.
Let’s break down the tones that consistently photograph beautifully on Black and brown skin, and why they always hit.
Earth Tones — The Holy Grail
Examples: Burnt sienna, olive green, rust, camel, terracotta, ochre, chocolate brown
These tones aren’t just "neutral" — they’re rooted. They reflect light softly, add warmth to the skin, and never fight for attention. Deep tones like sienna and espresso bring dimension, while muted greens and golds evoke natural balance.
Why it works: Earth tones harmonize with undertones found in deeper complexions — especially golden, red, and olive-based hues.
💡 Styling tip: Try monochrome layering (like a rust blouse and deep brown trousers) or pair with textured fabrics like linen, wool, or denim.
Jewel Tones — Vibrancy Without the Loud
Examples: Emerald, amethyst, deep teal, ruby, mustard, indigo
These colors radiate. They pop against melanin without feeling artificial — and they show up rich on both film and digital.
Why it works: Jewel tones are naturally high in saturation, making them ideal for darker skin tones that reflect light differently than lighter tones.
💡 Styling tip: An emerald dress, a sapphire top, or even a plum coat can act as a statement piece without overwhelming the image. Add gold or brass jewelry to anchor the look.
Warm Neutrals — The Underrated MVPs
Examples: Warm taupe, cocoa, dusty rose, almond, sandstone, soft copper
Forget cold grays and flat whites. Warm neutrals elevate deeper skin without draining color from your face. These tones act as quiet confidence — soft, yet intentional.
Why it works: They enhance your skin’s natural glow and bring out subtleties in undertone — especially for mid-brown to deep skin tones.
💡 Styling tip: These tones are perfect for studio sessions or soft, natural light settings. Combine with minimal makeup and dewy skin for editorial softness.
Black (Yes, You Can — and Should)
Black isn’t basic when it’s used with power. It adds structure, boldness, and drama — especially in black & white edits or contrast-rich lighting.
Why it works: It grounds the image and makes your skin shine. When paired with strong posture or movement, it reads editorial every time.
💡 Styling tip: Choose textured fabrics like silk, velvet, or ribbed knits. This helps black photograph rich rather than flat.
What to Avoid (or Use Sparingly)
Bright white: Can over-reflect in sun and wash out contrast unless styled very intentionally.
Neon: Distracts from your presence and often photographs harshly.
Pale pastels: These can flatten deeper skin tones unless balanced with bolder accents or deeper makeup hues.
Shiny synthetics: Can catch light awkwardly and look cheaper on camera than IRL.
Final Thought: Let the Color Match Your Energy, Not Just the Aesthetic
You’re not here to fit in. You’re here to show up fully.
When we work together, I’ll help guide you toward looks that don’t just look good — they feel right. Because when you wear something that amplifies your truth, the camera sees it. The image holds it.
Your skin is not a backdrop — it’s the art.
Let’s dress it accordingly.
📍Based in San Diego, shooting anywhere the light calls.
Ready to book your editorial portrait session? Let’s connect.
How to Prepare for an Editorial Portrait Session
Editorial portraits aren’t just photos — they’re presence, identity, and intention in frame. Here’s how to prepare for a portrait session that feels true to you.
Whether you're an artist, entrepreneur, or creative, an editorial portrait session is more than just a photoshoot — it’s a visual story. These portraits don’t just show what you look like. They reveal your presence, your essence, and the way you take up space.
As a San Diego-based editorial photographer working with artists, creatives, and changemakers, I’ve seen firsthand how a little prep goes a long way — not for the camera, but for you. Here’s how to prepare for a shoot that feels effortless, aligned, and true to who you are.
1. Clarify Your Intention
Ask yourself: What do I want these photos to communicate?
Editorial portraits can be bold, quiet, raw, or styled. But they should always feel like you, not a costume. Are you entering a new creative era? Rebranding? Telling a story? Bringing this clarity helps guide the shoot without boxing you in.
💡 Pro Tip: Share references, songs, colors, or textures that inspire you. Moodboards aren’t just trendy — they’re a creative blueprint.
2. Dress Like Yourself — But Elevated
Think of it like this: you on your best day, not you in disguise.
Clothes should complement your vibe, not compete with it. Editorial doesn’t mean over-the-top unless that’s your truth. Neutral tones, strong silhouettes, interesting textures — these all photograph beautifully. Avoid overly busy patterns or logos unless it’s intentional.
💡 Bring options. Even 2–3 looks can offer variation without overwhelming the shoot.
3. Rest, Hydrate, and Ground Yourself
This isn’t just vanity — it’s energetic. A well-rested, grounded body photographs differently. The camera picks up more than angles; it picks up presence.
Drink water. Stretch. Breathe. Take space the morning of the shoot to be with yourself. The goal isn’t perfection — it’s alignment.
4. Trust the Photographer (aka Me)
When we shoot together, you’re not just stepping in front of a lens — you’re stepping into a safe space. I’ll guide you, direct with intention, and read the energy. You don’t have to perform. You just have to show up.
Together, we’ll co-create something honest, cinematic, and resonant. That’s the TIKA approach.
5. It’s More Than Photos — It’s Your Legacy
The right editorial portrait session can change how people see you — but more importantly, it can change how you see yourself. These images often become part of press kits, portfolios, social content, and future brand storytelling.
But they’re also markers of your growth. Your evolution. Your becoming.
Final Thoughts
If you're preparing for your first or fiftieth editorial portrait session, remember: this is collaboration, not performance. You don’t need to force anything. You’re already enough.
And if you’re ready to create something cinematic, soulful, and story-rich — I’m here. Let’s shoot.
Ready to book? Get in touch here or visit the Collab page.
Ultimate Groom Outfit Ideas for 2025 Weddings
From timeless black tuxedos to modern green suits and relaxed linen sets — this guide breaks down the best groom outfit ideas for every wedding vibe. Whether your style is classic, creative, or casually cool, here’s how to dress like you on your big day.
Classic, Modern, and Bold Styles That Photograph Beautifully
White Jacket + Black Pants: High-Contrast Elegance
A white dinner jacket paired with tailored black trousers is bold, clean, and striking. It’s a classic choice for fashion-forward grooms who want a refined, unexpected edge.
Why it works on camera: The contrast helps anchor the image while spotlighting you in a sea of neutrals.
Style tip: Add a black bow tie and patent leather shoes for a timeless finish — or go open-collar for a modern remix.
All Black Everything: Modern, Sharp, Elevated
A full black-on-black look is a bold move — and it always pays off. Ideal for evening or formal weddings, an all-black suit paired with a black shirt, tie, and polished shoes creates a seamless, modern silhouette.
Why it works on camera: It photographs sleek and cinematic, especially under moody or directional lighting. It's timeless, but with edge.
Style tip: Opt for a slightly matte or textured black fabric to avoid light flattening the look in photos.
Linen Suits: The Effortlessly Cool Option
If your wedding is taking place outdoors, near the ocean, or during warmer months, linen is your best friend. It breathes, it moves, and it feels relaxed without losing polish.
Choose shades like soft beige, muted gray, or dusty pastel tones for an organic, editorial vibe. If you’re unsure about fabric choice, here’s a breakdown of how linen compares to cotton for weddings.
Why it works on camera: The texture of linen adds visual interest, and the muted tones blend beautifully with natural backdrops.
Style tip: Ditch the tie. Pair with a crisp cotton shirt, loafers or clean sneakers, and let the environment do the styling.
Chic Blue Suits: Modern, Confident, and Fresh
From midnight navy to bright royal, blue suits have become a staple for good reason. They offer personality without straying too far from the formal vibe.
Why it works on camera: Blue pops in daylight and adds depth in overcast or indoor light. Works especially well in spring or garden weddings.
Style tip: Match with a crisp white shirt and a contrasting tie or pocket square for a layered look.
Going Green: A Statement Without the Shout
Green suits are the sleeper hit of wedding fashion. Forest, olive, and emerald bring a richness that feels both bold and grounded.
Why it works on camera: Green flatters melanated skin and stands out without overpowering. Editorial, earthy, and unexpected.
Style tip: Keep the rest simple. Neutral shirt, maybe a gold ring or chain, and brown or oxblood shoes to tie it all together.
The Classic Black Suit: Always the Right Choice
If in doubt, go black suit. Always. It’s elegant, versatile, and easy to personalize.
Why it works on camera: Clean lines, no color clashing, and it's flattering across all skin tones. Editorial in its simplicity.
Style tip: Add personality with accessories: a silk tie in your favorite color, a boutonnière that speaks to your story, or cufflinks that nod to your roots. For more traditional groom style ideas, GQ offers a solid guide on suit fit and cut.
Looking for editorial wedding photography with soul?
Let’s create images that reflect your style and your story.
Reach out here or browse the Portfolio.
Final Thought: It’s Not Just About the Suit
It’s about how you feel in it.
Your wedding outfit should feel like a second skin — one that reflects your style, intention, and presence. Whether you’re walking down the aisle in linen loafers or a velvet blazer, make sure it’s tailored, thoughtful, and you. Looking for even more inspiration? Pinterest is a great place to see these colors in action.
And when it comes to capturing that energy in frame? I’ve got you
📍Based in San Diego, shooting anywhere the light calls.
Ready to book your editorial portrait session? Let’s connect.