dress for success
What to Wear for your family session
When you’re trying to create a beautiful and timeless family portrait it is important that you choose the right clothing. Not too long ago it was popular for the whole family to wear white shirts and blue jeans. These days, however, the trend is to coordinate and not match. Focus on accomplishing a cohesive look and dressing in outfits that will allow your photos to take on a timeless feel.
plan your outfits in advance
The more time you allow yourself to plan your outfits, the less stressed you’ll be. Plus, it never hurts to have options especially when you’re dressing your kids.
Choose coordinating, neutral colors
Do not match! Mix colors that go well together but are not exactly the same. This is easiest done using neutral colors, which will also weather the years better than bright, bold colors. By selecting a color scheme and using hues that complement each other, you can achieve a more natural look across the board. Pick two main colors and then add softer tones to accent and complete your color scheme.
consider your home decor
You’ll want to consider your home decor style when picking out what to wear in family photos. Since a few of these photos will most likely be hanging in your home and on display for a long time, make sure that the clothing you select blends in seamlessly with the color scheme of your home.
keep location in mind
Another helpful item to consider when trying to decide what to wear in your family photos is the location of your photoshoot. Are you going to be on the beach where there are plenty of neutral tones or under a tree surrounded by bright fall foliage? Select a color palette for your outfits that will complement the setting. Pick out items of clothing in colors that will complement your background and not compete with it.
consider the season when choosing color scheme
Each season is associated with different colors, weather, and landscapes which will be an important item to consider when picking out what everyone will be wearing.
accessories & layers are key
Accessories and layers are great style pieces that add to your individual outfits and can even tie family members’ outfits together. For example, if dad is wearing a red and black plaid coat then adding a plaid hat to your daughter’s outfit will tie the pattern in for a more cohesive feel. Accessories will also give your photos variation. Think scarves, hats, gloves, and belts. Throw on a cardigan, vest, denim jacket - these are great options to add interest to your outfits and the overall look of your images.
limit distracting patterns and large logos
Articles of clothing with multiple patterns or large logos can become a distraction. Strong prints and abstract patterns can overpower your photo. Avoid items that clash and stick to one pattern or textural element for your portrait session.
SELECT OUTFITS THAT ARE APPROPRIATE YEAR-ROUND
One of the more popular times for families to take their portraits seems to be around the holidays. The holidays may seem like the perfect excuse to bring out the Santa hats and incorporate props into your family portraits. However, you’ll want these photos to be displayed all year round. Try to avoid purely seasonal accessories and items.
bring it all together
Lay each family member’s outfit together while planning. This way you’ll have a good idea about how the pieces will look next to each other. This will allow you a better idea of what works and what doesn’t. Plus, this way, you can make sure that you’re not missing any essential clothing items.
RESOURCES & GUIDES
