One of the first questions I get from men before a portrait session is, "What should I wear?" It's a valid concern. You want to look your best, feel like yourself, and not have to overthink it. My goal isn't to turn you into a fashion model overnight; it's to help you choose clothes that let your personality come through. The right outfit is the foundation for photos where you look confident, authentic, and completely at ease.
Your Goal: Look Like Yourself, but Better
Many of my clients, especially those who've never had a professional photoshoot, worry they'll look or feel awkward. That's a completely normal thought to have. A huge part of my job is to guide you through the entire process, from finding the perfect spot in Lisbon to directing you into poses that feel natural. When you feel good in what you're wearing, that confidence translates directly to the camera. The best outfits are the ones that feel like an elevated version of your everyday style, not a costume.
Fit Is Everything
I can't stress this enough: the fit of your clothes is the most critical element. I've seen an expensive designer shirt look sloppy because it was too big, while a simple, well-fitted t-shirt looked incredibly sharp. Clothes that are too baggy will add visual bulk and hide your shape in photos. On the other hand, anything too tight can look restrictive and feel uncomfortable, which will show in your posture. Before your session, I always recommend trying on your complete outfit. If something doesn't feel quite right, a quick trip to a tailor can make an incredible difference. It's the single best investment you can make for your photos. Remember to iron or steam everything before you arrive; wrinkles are very difficult to edit out and can ruin an otherwise perfect shot.
Choosing Colors and Textures
When it comes to color, think timeless. Loud colors and big, bold patterns can be distracting; they pull the viewer's eye away from your face, which should always be the focus of a portrait. I generally recommend sticking to a palette of neutral and earth tones: navy, grey, olive, charcoal, and beige. These colors are classic, they photograph beautifully in Lisbon's unique golden light, and they won't make your photos look dated in five years. We should also avoid large logos or graphics, as they instantly turn a personal portrait into a brand advertisement. Texture, however, is a subtle detail that adds a lot of depth to an image. Fabrics like linen, wool, corduroy, or even quality denim catch the light in interesting ways and prevent an outfit from looking flat. This is especially effective for our lifestyle sessions in historic areas like Alfama, where the textures of your clothes can echo the textures of the old city.
Building Your Look for a Lisbon Photoshoot
For a relaxed, everyday feel, you can't go wrong with the basics done well. Think of a great-fitting pair of dark wash jeans or chinos, a high-quality plain t-shirt, and a simple jacket, like a bomber or a clean denim jacket. Paired with fresh sneakers or leather boots, this look is perfect for capturing a candid feel while exploring the streets of Chiado. It's effortless but intentional. If you want something a bit more polished, we can aim for a smart casual style. This is my most frequently recommended look for a men's portrait session in Lisbon. It involves swapping the t-shirt for a button-down shirt – linen is fantastic in the warmer months – and adding a well-structured blazer. This combination is incredibly versatile and looks sharp against both grand architecture and quiet, charming side streets.
The Final Touches: Accessories
Accessories should complete your look, not compete with it. A classic watch, a simple leather belt, or a pair of well-chosen glasses can add a layer of personality and sophistication. The key is intention. Ask yourself if the accessory adds to the story you want to tell or if it just creates noise. I usually advise clients to bring a couple of options, and we can decide on the spot what works best for the shots we're aiming for. Sometimes the simplest choice is the most powerful. The focus should remain on you, not what you're wearing.
Ultimately, these are just guidelines. The most important rule is that you feel comfortable and confident in your own skin. As your portrait photographer here in Lisbon, my job is to take care of the technical side – the light, the composition, the posing. Your only job is to be yourself. When we plan your session, we'll talk through these ideas and put together a plan that feels right for you. The goal is to create photos that don't just show what you looked like, but feel like a true reflection of who you are.