What should we wear for family photos
Choosing attire for a photo session is a bit more complex than pulling a few favorites from the depths of your closet. Why? Things that look great in person, don't always translate on camera. And let's be real here... Professional photos? They're an investment! You don't want to leave your outfit to chance.
The goal is to find a style that's authentic to your family, but feels special at the same time.
Your outfits should be cohesive not "matchy-matchy."
If your head is spinning, don't worry. Let’s break the process down step-by-step.
Step-by-step guide to choosing your outfits
CHOOSE THE LOCATION
Before you even consider what outfits you want to wear, talk to your photographer about location options and what you most prefer. Will you have a casual beach session or will you be dressed up downtown? Will you be frolicking through wildflower fields or hiking to an epic location? Your location actually matters a lot as you choose your outfits. Consider the vibe you are going for first as you select your outfits and then work with your photographer to choose a suitable location.
START WITH MOM’S OUTFIT
It can be hard to know where to begin, but think of it as building blocks. Start with one outfit and then you can build upon that. My recommendation is to start with mom (or daughter), since women’s clothing tends to have more colors and prints. And let’s be honest, we are more picky about how we look, and moms are typically pulling the outfits together anyways.
My best advice is for you to wear a dress in your favorite color. Not only are dresses flattering, but you will feel good in it. If you hate dresses, think about a skirt/top combo, but choose something that is slightly dresser than your everyday look. Opt for high quality fabrics (not t-shirt material) because they hang better.
CHOOSE A COLOR PALETTE
After you’ve chosen mom’s outfit, think about 2-3 coordinating colors, one neutral and one which pops and brings life to the outfits. I’ve created a Pinterest board with spring/summer family photo outfit ideas! Check it out!
Also, the color palette you choose will affect your appearance and the overall look of your photo. Warmer colors like peach, cream, brown, will give your photos a soft glowing look, while bold and vivid colors will produce a brighter and sharper appearance.
tHINK MUTED COLORS
Avoid overly saturated and bold colors, as they distract in the photo. Look for muted versions of the same color.
For example, if you have a bright hot pink shirt, try a muted dusty rose instead.
COORDINATE, DON’T MATCH
Gone are the days when everyone wears matching white polos and khakis for family photos on the beach. Choose colors that complement each other but are not overly matchy-matchy. For example, avoid wearing the same color top as your spouse or putting your girls in the same matching dresses. If you will be holding a little one, dress them in complimentary color. After mom’s outfit is chosen, begin to find 2-3 coordinating colors that complement. Need more inspiration? Check out my Pinterest board!
ADD VARIETY WITH SUBTLE PATTERNS
To add depth and interest to your photos, create dimension by having primarily solids with a few coordinating subtle patterns and textures. Patterns are great in small doses and add a lot to your photo. Avoid bold, large prints that can distract from the photo though. You want your family photos to be about you and not your outfits.
Layers are another way to add interest with cardigans, shawls, scarves, etc.
FITTED CLOTHING IS YOUR FRIEND
While flowy shirts and dresses are currently in style, they can hide your shape and be less flattering in photos. Find clothes that are neither overly baggy nor too tight, and think about balance between your upper and lower half. If you have a flowing skirt, chose a fitted top, and with a loose top, choose skinny jeans. It’s all about balance, folks.
DRESS FOR THE WEATHER
You might have the perfect outfit on, but if you’re freezing or sweating to death, a family photo session can quickly unravel. Layering is the perfect solution for those chilly evenings or sweltering August days! Remember, little ones get cold more quickly than adults when temperatures are low, so pack a cardigan or sweater for them. Cold kiddos = sad photos…keep those kids warm!
JUST BE YOURSELF
Don’t dress like someone else you saw on Pinterest just because you found an amazing outfit idea. You want these photos to represent the real you and your family. This might mean you wear shorts or torn up jeans or a boho vintage thrift store dress. Just be you!
COORDINATE WITH YOUR INTERIOR STYLE
How you decorate your home says a lot about you and your style. Consider coordinating your outfits to your home décor, as you will likely display your photos on your walls. For example, if your house is decorated in white muted tones, don’t wear bright and bold outfits.
DON’T WAIT TO TRY ON YOUR CLOTHES UNTIL THE DAY BEFORE
Try on your clothes well in advance so you can switch it up if something isn’t working. Look at your outfit from different angles and move around to make sure it works for lifestyle photos. There’s nothing worse than a gorgeous v-neck dress that keeps gaping wide-open to show your bra as you cuddle and tickle your kiddos.
