What to Wear

What To Wear?

1. Mix patterns & colors

Have fun letting everyone’s personality come out in their clothing. And don’t be afraid to mix patterns and colors – if done well, it will add even more visual interest to your photo! Avoid Busy Patterns otherwise it takes the focus off of you, Like "leopard print".

2. Add a layer or two

Layering can come in the form of cardigans, blazers, tights, boots, or even a bold necklace or a scarf. Layers not only add depth and texture to your photos, but you can also add or remove them if the weather changes unexpectedly.

3. Get comfortable

Looking confident & relaxed when you’re uncomfortable is pretty much impossible. So, don’t fight it – wear something you feel good in. And when dressing your kiddos, make sure their clothes fit nicely. Baggy clothes (you know, the ones you’re hoping they grow into before the end of the season) often just end up looking messy.

4. Be strategic with your colors

Start with one outfit that you love, and then focus on making sure the others match. Try to stick to 2-3 main colors, and avoid too much white, black, or fluorescents. Bright, bold and muted colors are all great options.

When combining colors, consider mixing a few neutral items in with your bold items, and then let accessories like scarves and jewelry showcase the bright pops of color.

Wear colors that you've been told you look good in. For instance wearing a nice shade of blue may bring out the intensify and color of someone with Blue Eyes. Conversely, colors also reflect on your face so don't wear a color that adds a detracting tone to your skin.

5. Locations have colors, too!

Standing out in your location – without clashing with it – can be tricky. Dress the part and be aware of your location. For example, if you are shooting at the beach, ladies wear a pretty dress and sandals, put dad in a short sleeve shirt and shorts OR pants (which you can also roll up), put your little girl in a sweet Spring or Summer dress, etc. You will want to make sure that everyone is on the same page and coordinates in both colors AND styles.

6. Be ironic

In some instances, irony can make an average photo shoot really stand out. Wearing a suit & tie in the woods, or wearing a fancy dress on the beach, can create a juxtaposition that’s really interesting and unique.

7.Personalize It

These are YOUR images and of course you want them to speak volumes about you and your family. Discuss things your family enjoys doing together and bring “props” and accessories that will help compliment who you are. If your family enjoys playing music together, bring your instruments to your session. If your family enjoys boating, suggest doing your session on a boat or at the very least near the water. Bring along items that will represent who each individual is AND who your family is collectively.

8. Have fun!

As a mom I know how stressful it can be to get everyone together and keep them unwrinkled or stain free. Take a deep breathe and try to enjoy it. Even if you have everything perfectly planned, people in your family might not cooperate.

You just have to relax and remember that you’re trying to capture a season in the life of your family. So you forget the big fight you had about which headband your daughter wants to wear. I recommend having a glass of wine or a little snack before a photo shoot. And of course, I love to try new things that make the whole experience more fun for everyone involved.

If I were building outfits for my family this is how I would do it:

Keeping your location and season in mind, start with one person. Don’t try and think of everyone at the same time. I find that mom or a little girl makes the most sense since they would typically be the ones wearing a print. So mom will be wearing a floral print dress (small pretty pattern that is).
Now move on to the next person. You will be pulling colors from mom’s dress so begin to think about who in the family would look good in what colors. Dad doesn’t look so good in XYZ since it tends to drown out the tone in his skin. Let’s pick ABC for him instead. And so on.
Then start to come up with ideas to personalize the session. A little boy may have a security blanket or teddy bear he never parts with…. be sure to bring that with you. The little girl may like crafting so have her make a cute matching headband or clip for her hair. Mom loves tulips… on your way to the session pick some up. Make thoughtful choices and be sure to discuss the ideas with your photographer! Believe me, most are full of ideas however, it’s always nice when the family helps and truly ensures a “custom” session.