When it comes to creating beautiful memories, one key ingredient is choosing the perfect outfits for your family photo.
It can be really overwhelming trying to decide on outfits for the entire family, but fear not! In this blog, I’ll share some helpful tips and suggestions to ensure you and your loved ones look and feel your best during your upcoming family session. Let’s dive in!
Tip #1
Coordinate, but don’t match:
Gone are the days of everyone wearing identical outfits in family photos (yes, everyone in jeans and white shirts is out!). When multiple people wear the same colour, sometimes their matching outfits blend together so much that you can’t really see any of them properly.
The key is to coordinate colors and styles without being too matchy-matchy.
Choose colours that compliment each other and reflects your family’s personality. Think about colors that look great together, such as soft pastels, earth tones, or even rustic colours. By coordinating rather than matching, you’ll create a visually pleasing and cohesive look.
Tip #2
Comfort and personal style is key:
While you want to look your best, comfort should never be compromised. Ensure that everyone feels comfortable and confident in their chosen outfits, especially young children. It’s essential for capturing genuine smiles and relaxed poses. Consider the location and weather when selecting fabrics and layers, so everyone feels comfortable throughout the family photo session.
But please don’t forget to stay true to your family’s personal style. Your family photos should reflect who you are, and how you want this special time in your family’s life to be remembered. If you’re a casual and laid-back family, choose comfortable and relaxed outfits that allow your family’s personality to shine through. If you feel more comfortable wearing something a little more dressy and stylish, then dress accordingly (if it suits the location). The goal is to feel comfortable and confident, as this will shine through in your family photos. Make sure you discuss your preferred dress style with your photographer.
Tip #3
Embrace layers and textures:
Adding layers and textures to your outfits can bring depth and visual interest to your family photos. Pick fabrics that move and flow with you, or ones that add a cosy texture.
Natural fibres like linen, cotton, or wool are amazing.
Layers can help add variety to poses and create dimension in your images. Mixing fabrics and textures, such as pairing denim with a cosy sweater or lace with knitwear, can add an extra touch of visual appeal to your family’s ensemble.
Tip #4
Consider the location and season:
When planning your outfits, take into account the location and season of your photo session. If you’re heading to the beach in summer, light and breezy outfits in neutral tones or soft blues and whites can create a serene and beachy vibe. For a fall/winter session in the park, warm earthy tones like burgundy, mustard, and deep greens can harmonize beautifully with the environment.
You’ll want to be warm enough (or cool enough!), have pain-free feet, and look relatively native to your environment. For at home sessions, slip into your comfiest comfies and rock that!
The idea is to authentically capture you and your family wherever you are.
Tip #5
Timeless over Trendy:
While it can be tempting to dress your family in the latest fashion trends, remember that trends will go out of style, and these photos will be cherished for many years to come. Instead, choose timeless and classic outfits that won’t go out of style. Solid colours, simple patterns, and neutral tones are safe choices that stand the test of time. You want your family photos to remain beautiful and relevant, no matter how many years pass.
Just beware of large bold patterns as they often dominate the photograph and detract attention from your beautiful faces. Usually, subtle smaller patterns work best. Flannels or a light floral print are great when they complement the location. Likewise, Logos or branded clothing can be very distracting in a photo, and best to be avoided unless it is subtle.
Tip #6
Shoes and grooming:
Outfits are essential, but don’t neglect the importance of footwear. Selecting appropriate shoes that match the overall style of your outfits can make a significant difference in the final look. Choose footwear that is comfortable and complements the chosen outfits. Select the right shoes based on the location, and consider what you’d normally wear if I wasn’t following you around with a camera.
Being barefoot makes sense on the beach, and boots are beautiful in the mountains. Leather is great for boots, and know that sandals win over flip flops by a long shot. Always consider context when choosing footwear for both aesthetic appeal and practicality.
Additionally, pay attention to grooming details such as hairstyles, neatly trimmed nails, and light makeup (if desired). These small touches can enhance your family’s overall appearance and make your photos even more remarkable. Watch out for chipped nail polish, and dirty fingernails.
Tip #7
Complement your home styling:
Consider the environment where you plan to print and display your gorgeous family portraits — your home! Take a moment to think about the colors and style that dominate your living space. Do you have warm, earthy tones or cool, serene tones? By aligning your clothing choices with your home’s decor, you create a seamless transition from the photoshoot to your framed prints, resulting in a cohesive and visually pleasing display. Your family photos will compliment your home decor and look sensational!
Preparing for a family photoshoot is an exciting and memorable experience. By following these tips and suggestions, you can confidently choose outfits that will beautifully capture your family’s unique bond and personality.
I’m dedicated to making your experience comfortable, enjoyable, and filled with love. I can’t wait to create stunning images that you’ll treasure for a lifetime. Let’s create picture-perfect memories together!
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