Our choice of clothes can significantly influence the way people see us and what they pay attention to. Never is this truer than in a photograph. Choosing appropriate clothing is essential if you want to bring out your best features (minimise others).

There are general rules to consider, for minimising and maximising attention to specific areas of the body.

To minimise an area, cover it with your clothes and wear darker colours. For example, if you are uncomfortable about your arms or you feel disproportionately larger in your upper body wear sleeves, or at least capped sleeves. Avoid shoestring straps, plunging necklines or a frilly top. They can be attractive in person but aren’t necessarily flattering in a photo. Long pants are recommended for men.

Wear clothes that fit your form well, so there is no extra material floating around and filling in visual gaps. Flowing material is comfortable to wear and can make you less-self conscious, but in photos it can look like a large, solid 'block' which we don't want. Make sure that clothes are clean and ironed. Guys cannot go wrong with a nicely fitted, ironed shirt, which can be dressed up or down depending on the occassion.

Balance your form with the shape of your clothing. If you perceive you are 'pear' shaped for example, with a larger lower half than you desire, choose darker colours with a classic simple cut of skirt of trousers. Draw attention to your upper body instead with interesting fabric textures, lace, frills and brighter or more saturated colours. Conversely, those who are self conscious about their upper body should bring emphasis to their bottom half with flared skirts, ruffles and a brighter colour.

Do you feel 'apple' shape so it's hard to decide what part of your body to minimise or maximise? Wear nicely fitting clothes, without frills or flowing/baggy material. Visually minimise the middle of your body with a belt, a classic empire line cut of garment or single buttoned jacket.

Of course if you want to break these traditional rules then go for it and rock what you've got! This advice is given on the assumption that most ladies would aspire to be the classic hourglass shape and men more triangular with breadth across their shoulders.

Talk to your photographer about your likes and dislikes when it comes to your body: As well as helping you choose the clothes to complement your figure, they can also dramatically manipulate the look of photos with lens choice and angle of shooting.