What to wear for your Family Photography Session
There are many factors that go into planning for your family photography session. Your photographer will help you to choose a beautiful location and plan for the best light of the day, but how do you plan what to wear for your family photos?
Family photography is an investment that you are your loved ones will cherish for years to come. Spending time to plan your outfits can really bring your photos to the next level! But where do you even start?
Start with one person's outfit and build off of that
Once you have chosen one family member’s outfit, take an element from that outfit and build from there. You can then use those colors and patterns to help guide you.
I often advise Mom to pick her outfit and go from there. Let me be your bff and send photos my way if you are unsure or need guidance.
Aim to "go together" but not to "match"
Once you have decided on one outfit, pick an element or two that you want to bring into the rest of your family’s outfits. You do not want to dress everyone in the same colour or have the whole family wearing competing prints. Patterns and textures that compliment each other photograph beautifully and can add interest to your images. Neutrals and organic tones are timeless and can be especially beautiful if accented with textured fabrics such as lace.
Don't be afraid of color
If you love colour, don’t be afraid to incorporate it into your session. If you need some inspiration, take a look at some inspiration photos and base your colour tones on those that you are drawn to! Just be sure to aim for complementary colours. Jewel tones, fall colours, and deeper tones photograph best. I generally suggest avoiding colours such as candy apple red, royal blue, or bright/ fluorescent colours, as they can reflect back onto your skin. Ensure the colours you choose compliment each other, but are not all the same.
What to avoid
Be sure to avoid logos and graphics on clothing if possible as they can be distracting. You want the focus to be on you and your family’s connection, not on your t-shirt.
Certain colors can reflect and cause a colour cast onto your skin. These are generally bright versions of colors such as reds, greens, and hot pinks. Instead, choose a toned down version such as rust red, sage or earthy greens. Earth tones can be very flattering!
Another thing to avoid if possible is baseball caps. The brim sits further down and shadows the face and creates harsh shadows. Smaller brimmed hats or hats that tip up for women are much more flattering. Either way, I suggest to have images with and without a hat on for variety.
Don't forget about your accessories!
Accessories can really make or break your outfits. Pay attention to the shoes you choose as they will be in many of the photos, and don’t be afraid to have some fun with jewelry or hats! If you have a little one, try a cute bonnet.
Men
Men tend to be more last minute when planning their outfits. Remember that what you wear will either compliment or distract from the rest of your family during your session. Please do not wear your every day runners! The bright colors on many runners are distracting in photos. Clean dress shoes or dressy runners only please. A reminder that your hands will be in many photos, so show them a little tlc also
Don’t forget to add layers such as a nice sweater or jacket. Avoid logos or pictures on shirts and jackets as these can also be distracting. These photos are an investment, so don’t be afraid to invest in your outfit too
Still need some help?
Don't be afraid to ask your photographer for suggestions!
I am always available to review your outfit choices and to send you some ideas.
