What to Wear for Family Photos

Tips for Planning Outfits for Family Photo Sessions

Scheduling your annual family photo session can be a daunting task. In my effort to try and make the process as easy as I can for my clients, I am here today to help with the dreaded question, “What do we wear??” Figuring out what to wear for family photos can be the most stressful part of the entire process. Out of all the questions my client ask, this is by far asked the most frequently. Luckily it doesn't have to be that hard or stressful! I hope these tips make it easier for you to choose your family’s outfits. If you still need a little extra help, not to worry! Drop me an email and I am happy to assist in any way that I can.

1. Be Authentic - make sure your clothes are authentically you! Stay true to you and your family’s style when picking out outfits. Is your family loud and super colorful? Wear sometime bright and cheery. Don’t like fancy dresses and shoes that hurt your feet? Forget about them! Your clothes are a representation of you and your family. If you stay true to yourselves you will feel more like yourselves during the session. This doesn’t mean that you should come in your pajamas to a beach session. Remember to still dress your best. But your best should authentically be you.

2. Coordinate - the goal is to have your families coordinate, not match exactly (ie, everyone in a white t-shirt and jeans). The former looks timeless, the latter looks dated. As a general rule I suggest picking 2-3 neutrals and 2-3 colors depending on how big your family is. Neutrals include black, grey, navy, denim, white/cream and khaki/tan. Most color combinations go together as long as they are the same tone (jewel tones, pastels, summer brights or winter colors). Don’t forget the fun impact a bright pop of color can have, especially when used on accessories.

3.Fit - This should go without saying but please make sure everyone’s clothes fit them properly. Kids grow fast and you might be tempted to use an item that is a tad too small or a smidge too big, but I highly suggest not to. I know that if my kids toes are even the tiniest squished in too small shoes, that is all they will complain about the entire time. The same goes for parents. If your clothes fit you well you can feel confident, and not self conscious. Also, you should be able to move around, dance, sit and pick up your children comfortably in the outfits that you choose. We will be moving throughout our session, walking and sitting down. You don't want to have to constantly adjust your clothes during that time.

4. Patterns - For a family of four I suggest using no more than 2 patterns. One should be on the bigger scale and the other should be smaller. Too many competing patterns can be distracting and take away from the main subject, your family!

5. Accessorize - Feel free to add accessories if it feels natural for your family. Examples include jewelry, sunhat for mom/daughters and layers for cooler weather (think scarves, hats or vests). As a bonus these accessories also add texture to your outfits, which will enhance your photographs even more.

What Not to Wear

Your clothing should enhance your photos, not steal the show. In general I suggest avoiding the following items:

- Neon colors

- Bright White

- Too many loud/clashing prints

- Clothes that don’t fit right or are uncomfortable

- Big Logos

- Graphic Tees

If all this advise doesn't help and you are still unsure, just ask! I am more than happy to help my clients choose and coordinate outfits, and even help them shop.

And as a last little tip, I always suggest doing this process sooner rather than later. You want to make sure everything is laid out, ironed, dry cleaned and ready to go well in advance of your photo session. Then you won't be stressed out, and instead you will be ready and excited to make some amazing photos.

If you would like to book a family photography session, please email me or use the contact page. I am excited to meet you!