Wardrobe has soo much to do with how your final images turn out, so while I don’t want you to stress… I do want you to have fun planning it! Consider colors, texture, and movement.

The Number One Tip for Planning Your Family’s Outfits:

Find one outfit you LOVE, and build your family’s look off of that.  I usually choose a two color palette, and balance them with a neutral or two. It makes planning and coordinating so much smoother.

 Number two:

Don’t just wear clothes that you look good in, wear clothes that you FEEL good in. Whether or not you are comfortable in what you are wearing, it will show in your photos. That includes temperature, outfits that are too tight, shoes that make the kids miserable, etc.

Tips for women: This goes for moms, seniors, engagement shoots… wear the maxi dress. So many women feel hesitant about it, but nothing matches the feel and movement a maxi dress can give you. Long dresses look amazing on camera and flatter every body shape. Worried about cold weather? Don’t be afraid to layer it up! 

Number Three:

You want to coordinate, NOT match.  When a group of people in a portrait wear similar colors, it focuses the attention of the portrait to the faces and individuals in that image. On the contrary, when everyone wears a variety of colors or patterns, the overall picture can feel very chaotic and distracting.  The exception to the rule is matching kiddos, or Christmas sessions if your family wants to wear coordinating jammies.  And always, barefoot is an adorable option, especially with babies.

Remember to consider your location, the temperature and the feel in which you wish to achieve when choosing outfits and color schemes.

The Last Step:

When you think you have your outfits, lay out all of the clothing together. Shoes, socks, stockings – everything should be included! Then, take a careful look at the collection. If your eye goes to any one item in particular, you can be certain that the same thing will happen in a photograph. That item should be changed. Clothing should not be too tight or too loose.

For more suggestions, find my style guide Pinterest board!  As always, feel free to call, email, or text asking for my help!