Why the Hoodie Is a Risky Choice for Portfolio Shoots (And How to Make It Work)

There’s something—at least to me—inherently lazy about showing up to a portfolio shoot in a basic hoodie. I’m not talking about a considered, structured, oversized, or intentionally designed piece. Those can absolutely work. I mean the standard graphic hoodie or the plain, everyday one people throw on without thinking.

Unless you’re part of a subculture where that choice is deliberate, or the shoot is built around sportswear or streetwear as a concept, the hoodie-and-jeans combination is something I simply refuse to shoot.

And that isn’t about being elitist or anti-casual. It’s about what clothing communicates on camera.

The Hoodie as a Form of Hiding

My main issue with the basic hoodie is that it visually communicates hiding.

A hoodie is a protective garment. It wraps, softens, and shields. In everyday life, that’s comforting. In a portfolio image, it’s often counterproductive. When someone hides in front of my camera—whether consciously or not—it makes my job harder. I’m not there to photograph someone shrinking away from themselves.

In a portfolio shoot, I want to capture the best version of you. Or at least an idealised version of who you are or could be. A basic hoodie frequently works against that goal.

Photographically, it rarely flatters. The bulk collapses the frame. The way it hangs obscures body lines and posture. The eye drifts away from the face. Instead of presence, you get passivity. Instead of confidence, you get comfort. And comfort, visually, is almost never compelling.

Why “Casual” Isn’t the Same as “Thoughtless”

Casual styling isn’t the problem. Thoughtless styling is.

Ironically, something even more “basic” than a hoodie—like a white T-shirt and jeans—has become timeless because people have learned how to style it. Fit matters. Fabric matters. Proportions matter. Small details make it feel intentional rather than accidental.

The classic white shirt-and-jeans combination works because it’s been refined over decades. It’s simple, but not careless. It photographs beautifully when done well.

A hoodie can work the same way, but only if it’s treated with that same level of consideration. Most people don’t do that. They default to it. And default choices show up immediately in images.

When a Hoodie Can Actually Work

If you’re going to wear a hoodie to a portfolio shoot, it has to be intentional. Elevated. Considered. It needs to look chosen, not grabbed.

Here are ways a hoodie stops being a visual dead-end and starts pulling its weight:

Structured or Designer Hoodies

Look for hoodies with strong silhouettes, unique cuts, or interesting construction. Oversized can work if it’s architectural rather than sloppy. Premium fabrics hold shape better and photograph cleaner than thin cotton basics.

Statement Layering

Layering is often what saves a hoodie. Under a blazer, leather jacket, or long coat, it gains contrast and purpose. The hoodie becomes part of a look rather than the entire idea.

Accessories That Add Intention

A chain, scarf, or hat introduces personality and effort. Even something as simple as a gold chain over a dark hoodie can shift the energy from “I rolled out of bed” to “this was deliberate.”

Colour and Texture Choices

Flat black and grey hoodies are safe but visually dull. Texture, subtle patterns, washed finishes, or colour that complements your skin tone can bring life back into the frame.

One-Off or Limited Pieces

Artist collaborations, unique graphics, or limited releases immediately communicate thought. They tell the viewer this hoodie means something to you, rather than being a default layer.

The Real Issue: Effort Shows

At the end of the day, this isn’t really about hoodies. It’s about effort.

Clothing becomes part of your personal brand in a portfolio. Every choice says something, whether you intend it to or not. A basic hoodie, worn without thought, often says, “I didn’t try.” And that’s not energy I want preserved in an image meant to represent you at your best.

A hoodie doesn’t have to be off-limits. But it does need work. Treat it like any other piece. Style it. Elevate it. Make it earn its place in the frame.

Otherwise, it’s not relaxed or effortless—it’s just hiding. And nobody wants that version of themselves captured forever.