What To Wear For A Family Photo Session | 8 Tips For Beautiful Family Portraits
Deciding what to wear for your family photo session can be so hard!
Here are 8 tips to answer photographer FAQs (frequently asked questions) for how to make the most of your family photo session!
DRESS A LITTLE NICER
Let’s be honest, you want to look nice in your photos! Outfits don’t need to be fancy, but make sure they look a little nicer than your normal t-shirt and leggings. I always love when mom picks a dress. It can be a more casual, flowy dress, but giving yourself a moment to dress up is always a great idea! Kids are going to run and move so choose outfits that move comfortably. As for the dads, maybe step into a pair of khakis or chinos. Avoid leggings, sweats, and really worn jeans.
WARDROBE COLORS - ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES!
Think about what you want your final photos to look like. Are you planning on hanging them up in your home? What is the color scheme of your home? Neutrals are always classic and go with everything. Jewel tones are rich and vibrant and photograph really well. Avoid wearing neons (they cause color casts on your faces) and anything with logos as these don’t tend to age well. These memories will last lifetime so a timeless look is always a great choice!
CONSIDER THE SEASON
If it’s chilly out, please don’t try to make your kiddos wear summery outfits. You may love them, but if they’re cold they will be uncomfortable and understandably grouchy during the session. Throw on a nice sweater if it’s a fall family session! If it’s hot - make sure you’re wearing breathable clothing. Pro tip: Make sure dad is wearing a darker color to hide sweat!
CONSIDER THE LOCATION & SETTING
Location sets the tone for the session - if you’re in a field you have freedom to dress fancy, be more casual, or whatever you’re feeling! Dresses twirling in front of a mountain view is always amazing with the mountain breeze providing some movement through a flowy dress. If you’re in a more downtown or hotel setting - imagine what your outfits will look like against that type of backdrop. Of course, home sessions tend to be more casual and authentic to home life.
DON’T BE TOO MATCHY-MATCHY
There’s no need for everyone to wear the same color or type of outfit. Mixing it up gives more texture and contrast which will elevate your images! Choose colors that compliment each other not necessarily match. If a pattern has a few colors in it, choose those little colors within to highlight in other outfits!
PICK A STAPLE OUTFIT & PLAN AROUND IT
I always suggest mom choose her outfit first! Whatever she feels best in and loves should be the hallmark of the session. If that’s a bold pattern, plan the other colors and outfits around that. If you find a dress for your little girl that you simply must have, plan the other outfits around that! Choose the highlight and plan the rest of the wardrobe choices from there.
MAKE SURE YOU’RE COMFORTABLE & CAN MOVE AROUND
Family sessions with me involve a little bit of play - tickling, picking up kiddos, twirling, etc. Make sure you can move comfortably in your outfits! The most important thing to remember is to choose what you feel best in! When you feel confident in front of the camera it’ll come across in the images!
BE YOU!
Most importantly, always remember to be yourself! My goal is to capture genuine moments to tell your unique story and have your personality SHINE through the images.
I hope you find these little tips helpful!
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