Unlocking the Power of Color Seasons to Enhance Your Photoshoot Look
- Laurie Neale
- Jan 17
- 4 min read
Have you ever wondered why some colors make you glow in photos while others seem to wash you out? The secret often lies in understanding your color season. When you know which colors suit you best, you can choose outfits that not only flatter your natural tones but also create stunning photos.
In this blog I'll introduce how color season analysis can transform your photoshoot wardrobe and help you look your absolute best in front of the camera.
Choosing the right colors based on your season can make your photos pop with natural beauty.
What Are Color Seasons and Why Do They Matter?
Color seasons come from the idea that everyone has a natural palette of colors that harmonize with their skin tone, hair, and eyes. These palettes are grouped into four main seasons: Spring, Summer, Autumn, and Winter. Each season has its own set of colors that enhance your natural features.
Spring: Warm, bright, and clear colors like coral, peach, and light green.
Summer: Cool, soft, and muted tones such as lavender, dusty blue, and rose.
Autumn: Warm, rich, and earthy shades like burnt orange, olive, and mustard.
Winter: Cool, bold, and high-contrast colors including black, white, and jewel tones.
Knowing your season helps you pick clothes that make your skin glow, your eyes sparkle, and your smile shine in photos.
How to Discover Your Color Season
You don’t need to be a stylist to find your color season. Here are some simple ways to analyze your colors before your photoshoot:
Look at Your Skin Undertone
The jewelry test isn't foolproof, but it's a fun way to figure out your undertone. Just try on some gold and silver jewelry and see which looks better on you. If one blends in nicely, that's the one that works with your undertone. If it just sits there, it's probably not the best match.
Consider Your Hair and Eye Color
While there are many exceptions, people with warm seasons often rock golden, red, or brown hair and have hazel, green, or warm brown eyes. On the flip side, those with cool seasons often have ash blonde, black, or platinum hair and sport blue, gray, or cool brown eyes.
Test with Fabric or Paper
Hold different colored fabrics or papers near your face in natural light. Notice which colors brighten your face and which make you look tired or washed out.
Use Online Tools or Consult a Professional
There are tons of quizzes and apps out there to help you figure out your season. I tried out Colorwise.me myself. This app snaps a series of photos using light filters that show how different colors look on your skin. It's the closest that I've found to in person draping.
But honestly, nothing beats getting advice from a real expert. For a spot-on analysis, you might want to see an analyst in person. There are some awesome ones in Halifax, like Christina at High Chroma.
Choosing Outfits That Complement Your Color Season
Once you know your season, you can select outfits that enhance your natural beauty and photograph beautifully.
Spring: Opt for light, warm colors like peach, coral, and light yellow. Avoid dark or overly muted shades.
Summer: Choose soft, cool pastels and muted colors like powder blue, lavender, and soft pink.
Autumn: Rich, earthy tones such as burnt orange, olive green, and deep browns work best.
Winter: Bold jewl tones in cool colors like royal blue, emerald green, and crisp white create striking contrasts.
There are a few different systems, but most of these can be further broken into subseasons. Try to avoid colors that clash with your undertones. For example, a Winter person might find that beige or orange tones dull their complexion.
The Impact of Color on Photography
Color doesn’t just affect how you look; it also influences the mood and feel of your photos.
Mood: Warm colors like reds and oranges can create a cozy, energetic vibe. Cool colors like blues and purples often feel calm and serene.
Aesthetics: Colors can draw attention to your face or outfit. High-contrast colors can make you stand out, while softer tones create a dreamy, gentle look.
Background Harmony: Matching your outfit colors with the photoshoot setting can create a cohesive and pleasing image.
For example, wearing autumn colors in a forest setting with golden leaves will create a natural, harmonious look. On the other hand, a winter palette outfit against a snowy background can look crisp and elegant.
Using seasonal color palettes helps you pick outfits that enhance your natural tones and photograph beautifully.
Tips to Experiment with Color in Your Photoshoot
You don’t have to stick strictly to your season’s palette. Photography is a creative process, and experimenting with color can lead to exciting results.
Mix and Match: Combine colors from your palette with neutral tones like white, gray, or beige to balance your look.
Use Accessories: Scarves, hats, or jewelry in your season’s colors can add pops of color without overwhelming your outfit.
Play with Backgrounds: Choose locations that complement or contrast your outfit colors to create dynamic images.
Try Different Lighting: Natural light enhances colors differently than studio lighting. See how your colors change in various lighting conditions.
Remember, the goal is to feel confident and comfortable. When you love what you’re wearing, it shows in your photos.
Final Thoughts on Using Color Seasons for Your Photoshoot
Understanding your color season is a powerful tool to help you look your best in photos. It simplifies outfit choices and ensures your natural beauty shines through. By choosing colors that suit your skin tone and working with your photographer to plan your shoot, you can create images that feel authentic and vibrant.
Comments