What should we wear?
This is one of the most popular questions I get asked as a portrait photographer. It's completely understandable!!! Choosing outfits for your entire family is probably one of the most stressful parts of the photo session experience. That's where I come in! My number one goal is to make my client's experience as easy and fun as possible. I'll be giving y'all some tips that will help you pick out the perfect wardrobe for your session!
Tip #1: Choose a Color Palette
The first thing you should do when deciding what to wear for your session is choose a color palette. When choosing a color palette, avoid bright colors. Skin is reflective. If you're wearing bright colors, those colors are going to reflect onto your skin and cause a color cast that may be very hard or even impossible to fix. So, say no to hot pink, bright green, and yes, even red!
Instead, think of earth tones, neutrals, jewel tones, and pastels. When deciding on what tones you should go with, you should keep a few things in mind. Session location, season, and decor. You want to be mindful of your session location when choosing a color palette so that you don't choose colors that will have you blending into the background. The season is important when choosing tones as well. For fall and winter you want to choose deeper earth and jewel tones. For spring and summer it would be best to go with lighter colors. Considering your home decor is also important when choosing tones because your photos should fit the room they will be displayed in.
Tip #2: Coordinate, don't match
Gone are the days of everyone wearing jeans and a white t-shirt to family photo day!!
When choosing your outfits always start with one piece and build the rest of your outfits around that piece. I like to start with Mom first when styling a family session. From there choose items that match your color palette. Try choosing one outfit with pattern and then having all other outfits coordinate based off the colors in that pattern. If you do choose to incorporate pattern, stay away from anything too busy.
Tip #3: Don't forget the shoes!
Don't forget, shoes play a huge role in pulling an outfit together!
Instead of athletic shoes and heels, go with boots, booties, sandals and sneakers. Make sure your footwear is practical and matches the setting. For fall and winter, boots and sneakers are ideal. For spring and summer sandals can be great!
I know buying shoes for the whole family just for one session isn't always practical. Try searching your local thrift stores and Facebook market place to find yourself a great deal!
Tip #4: Layers, textures, accessories and details
Layers like cardigans, jackets, and vests provide depth and add a special touch. Textures like knit, cords, denim, and lace add interest. Adding these things to your outfits creates an overall more interesting and appealing look.
Complete your look by adding hats, beanies, headbands, jewelry, scarves, belts, etc. Choose accessories that make you feel confident and show off your personality!
Remember to get haircuts at least a week prior to your session. This ensures that you have plenty of time to get it done.
I always recommend keeping makeup more on the natural side. If you'd like, get your hair and make up professionally done! This is a great way to relieve some of that session day stress!
Lastly, don't forget about your nails!! You're going to use your hands to hold, hug, and play with your kiddos. Make sure everyone's nails are clean and trimmed and don't forget to check for chipped polish!
Tip #5: Be comfortable
This is the most important tip!! No matter what you end up choosing for you and your family to wear, make sure you are comfortable and you feel like yourself. Choose items that truly reflect your personality and everyone in your family's personality.
Your kiddos are going to run and play and yes, maybe even get a little dirty so make sure they are able to move comfortably and effortlessly.
Where should I shop?
A few of my favorite places to shop for kiddos are, Amazon, Old Navy, Target and Shein. All of these places have a variety of options. The best part is, Amazon and Shein do free returns!
Amazon and Target also have great choices for men!
For women, I recommend Amazon, Shein, Baltic Born, and Pink Blush.
