Every fall we take on the daunting task of preparing our families for photo sessions. Each client of mine agrees that the hardest part is figuring out what everyone is going to wear. I’ve been there too, so I thought I would create a quick and easy guide to help with the task. Not only will the right outfit choices dramatically affect the look of your images, but they will also help keep your crew smiling.
First things first! Comfort! This is especially true with younger children and toddlers. Is your baby used to wearing scratchy tule skirts? Or are the cute sandals you have planned going to get full of stickers walking through the location? I always urge my clients to forget forcing anyone to wear something they resist from the start. If they put it on and after a few minutes still can’t comfortably wear it, let’s consider plan B.
Speaking of planning, when you are choosing your families outfits, it is easiest to start with mom. Find a longer dress (I mean it when I say they are the most universally flattering choice for ladies) or whatever style of outfit you prefer and coordinate everyone else’s choices with that. Soft colors and subtle prints (or solids) help keep the focus on your face and not on your outfit, and are very flattering for skin tones.
Once you have your outfit, pick a couple complimentary tones to coordinate with it. If there are subtle colors in the pattern you can use those, or you can mix and match. Keeping colors to one or two and then varying the shades is an easy way to make sure everyone coordinates without looking match match (hint: all denim is a bad plan). Think cream, white, khaki from one set of tones with dusty blue and navy from another.
You can also mix up textures to add some interest. Think a flowing, lightweight skirt for mom, a lace dress for the little lady, khaki pants and a cotton shirt for dad. (Hint: dads and boys always look best with long sleeves. If it’s hot, roll them to 3/4 length.) Tulle, velvet, and tweed are other fun textures you can play with.
Still feel like you need some help? I love assisting my clients with their choices! It’s one of the services that I include with every portrait session because I want you to look and feel your best!
