This process is unlike traditional film photography, it renders in unique ways and is also orthochromatic, it responds to colours differently.  Here are some tips that will help you make the best of your shoot by working with the strengths and flaws of this process.  This will optimise the resulting images from your session :

Blue colours will render as white, red will render as black.

What works particularly well with this process is texture, so fabrics that are coarse weave or have lace/ruffles/leather/fur/chunky knits work really well. I recommend avoiding wearing pure solid white or pure solid black if at all possible, it will likely render without any detail and can look very ‘blocky’, however black or white lace, because of it’s texture, can work wonderfully.  

Anything with writing or text printed on it should be avoided, it will come out backwards on the photo, everything is reversed with this process. Bold designs or heavily patterned clothing can be distracting and overpower a portrait, the focus should be on you unless it’s a fashion shoot. Showing layers of clothes can render particularly nicely; shirt, waistcoat and jacket for example. This can really add depth and interest to the final image.

The plates themselves last for generations, so some people like to opt for a ‘timeless and classic’ styling, clothes that don’t suggest any particular era. This often works well. Small accessories like jewellery, tie clips, fascinators, a flower in the hair or a pocket square can instantly add detail within the portrait too, little touches like this can really enhance the look. A hat can act as a great frame for the face and help balance composition too. I’d recommend bringing a selection of clothing and accessories with you.

Here’s a recent shot as an example where my subjects took the above suggestions to heart, they are absolutely delighted with the final result.