One of the most common questions I get asked by families is what should they wear to their photo session. So I thought I would write a blog for my families and anyone looking for some advice and guidance.
Instead of matching, coordinate outfits. Pick some of your hues that coordinate well together and stick to them. What are your family’s favorite colors? Don’t choose one color for the whole family – multiple colors will add dimension to your images. Neutrals and earthtones are always flattering as well as light solid colors.
Pick one pattern and go from there. Avoid dressing the whole family in patterns. A good idea is to choose one item, a dress for example, with a pattern containing the colors you love. Then choose colors from the item that you love for the other family members to wear.
Be comfortable. Make sure that everyone’s clothing fits properly and is weather appropriate. If you’re hot or cold during your session it’s less likely that you’ll appear happy and relaxed in your photos. This is especially true for children. If you feel good in your clothes it shows!
Do: Wear layers!! Layers add dimension and depth to your images. If it’s hot outside layer with accessories – cute belts, necklaces, bracelets, etc. If it’s cool weather cardigans, vests, scarves, boots and hats are all great examples. Avoid graphics on clothing – accessorize instead!
Do: Purchase clothes that fit your body. It can be tempting to buy kids clothing a size bigger so they’ll have room to grow, but for photo sessions it’s not the best idea.
Do: Start with one outfit and build the rest of the family clothing from there. It can be overwhelming trying to choose all the outfits at once so start small and build from there. Everything doesn’t have to be new, shop your closet!
Don’t: Wear neon colors or graphics… Neon colors don’t photograph well and cast colors onto the skin of those who are wearing them. Graphics can “date” your photos.
Don’t: Match! Matching is out, coordinating is in. Remember, it doesn’t have to match, it just has to GO. Outfits should complement each other, not match each other.
Don’t: Choose colors that match the scenery. If you’re doing a lot of outdoor photos for example, avoid wearing a lot of green as you’ll blend in too much with the background. Of course pops of green here and there are fine!
Don’t: Wear solid black or solid white clothing. These colors don’t show dimension when photographed and make for dull, boring images.
Most importantly, wear what you are comfortable and confident in and reflects who you are.
I’m also happy to help advise you on what to wear!
Shoot me an email or text and I’m happy to help!
