Styling For Your Family Session | [North Dallas Family Photographer]
North Dallas Family & Child Photographer
I know styling your family for photos is usually the biggest stressor. If you are like me you live in t-shirts, yoga pants, & a messy bun. Make-up – maybe just a little mascara…. These are your family pictures, and, Friend, I want you to look and feel your best. I want you to look at these pictures and see yourself for the amazing [mom/wife/business boss babe etc] that you are.
Why Wardrobe Matters for Photos
The fact is, if you don’t like the way you look in your photos you aren’t going to get the full benefit from them. You will not display them in your home or look back on them and remember the moment sweetly. I want you to look back with fondness on this season of your life, no matter what is going on. I want you to love your photos and the way you look in them.
Get The Most Out of Your Investment
Have you ever dreamed about rocking a romantic gown, tulle skirt, or that hat hanging in your closet but just never had an occasion for it? This is your chance to do it up! Remember: there is no such thing as “too dressed up” when it comes to your portrait session, so don’t be afraid to have some fun! If you love it, wear it! I want to give you my perspective behind the camera, to help you understand how clothing looks in photographs. Let’s style your family’s portrait session so that the vision in your mind can become reality. Photography is a big investment. You are spending time and money, and I want you to get the most out of your investment.
Choosing A Flattering Outfit for Your Photo Shoot
When I say flattering in this guide, what I mean is “highlighting the best about you.” So, clothing that flatters you is clothing that compliments your skin, showcases your favorite features, and makes you look as amazing as you feel on your best days. Flattering clothes do not steal the spotlight but bring out the best of you.
Should You Go Casual or Dressy For Your Photography Session?
Your wardrobe is an important part of the story we’re telling during your session, and I have put a lot of thought into how I best help you look fabulous. (and not feel stressed over it) My goal is not to convince you to wear something you feel awkward or uncomfortable in. If you feel good you will be more relaxed during your portrait session, and your smile will look more natural.
Things to avoid:
Most people are more than capable of assembling a well put together outfit. However, as a photographer, I have had a few times when families showed up with great outfits, but not outfits that photograph well. So in order to make this the very best for you here are some things to avoid:
- Neon colors are a big no-no. They just don’t photograph well, and are very hard to edit with keeping everything consistent. This also can be true for hot pink and fire engine red. These colors will create a color cast on your skin which will make your skin color look unnatural.
- Clothing that will cause a melt down. If you have a child with sensory issues – especially with clothing. I get it – ME TOO. I have raised that kid too. If you are stuck trying to pick something for this reason, let me help you! We can work this out together.
- Clothing with a character theme should be avoided.
A few things to consider as you style your family:
- As you begin to choose outfits, think about the colors you tend to decorate with and what colors you are naturally drawn to. Remember: Coordinate rather than match. Gone are the days when everyone wore jeans and the same color shirt.
- Choose a color palette of about 3-4 colors. Start by selecting a base plus 2-3 colors that are neutral or nearly neutral and then add in the accent colors. Build most of the outfits using the 2 to 3 neutral colors.
- Choose outfits that allow you to move easily (there will be a lot of it!). Tight clothing, especially tight mini skirts are not ideal for this reason. Make sure to put color coordinating or dark shorts under a dress or skirt for young girls. In my experience long flowy dresses or short dresses and skirts with some movements work best. Keep in mind we will get up and down and play during our session. (This applies to moms as well!)
- Mixing in patterns with solids: The trick to choosing patterns for your family photos is that you don’t have too many. Sticking to one or two patterns with solid colors and textures for the rest. Never underestimate the power of textures. Textures can really add a lot of interest in your photos, but in a more subtle way. Add as much texture as possible. You can’t have too much (unlike patterns). Some textures I love are lace, corduroy, knits, chambray, gauzy or crepe fabrics, velvet, Swiss dots, and waffle cloth.
Now you are ready…
- Select your outfit first (mom’s outfit) As moms, we often put ourselves last, and then we don’t love what we are wearing. So, let’s reverse that order. Mom’s outfit will be the centerpiece.
- Next I want you to pick out any outfits for daughters, then sons and dad. When in doubt remember that neutrals like navy, khaki, creamy white, black, or denim pair well with pops of color.Lay the outfits out together.
- As you look at your outfit choices, ask yourself these questions: Does it look like they go together? Does it look like everyone is going to the same event, in the same weather? Do all the colors coordinate well with each other? Does your color scheme and the colors of your location compete? For instance, if we are at a lush, green location, choose outfits that are not heavy on the green. Start early so you have time to switch items out if they aren’t working.
- Don’t forget the accessories! Pairing an accessory or two with your outfit can really help bring some extra dimension to your images, like the icing on a cake. Belts, hats, bracelets, and earrings bring great visual interest, so choose one or two that don’t compete for attention.
- Remember: SHOES MATTER! Once you have an outfit pulled together, the last thing we want to do is throw is some beat up tennis shoes. Unless they are converse – those actually do tend to age well and can really give a certain vibe to an outfit.
You can do this!
Also, remember – I am here to help you! I am just a text or phone call away!
As you are working on your outfits, lay them out to see how they work together. When you think you are close or done with your selections take a picture with your phone, and send it to me. If you are unsure or are deciding between several choices, send me a picture and I will help you decide.
Favorite place to shop for family outfits:
THE WHOLE FAMILY:
Gap, Old Navy, Target, H&M
YOUNG GIRLS & BOYS (UNDER 7):
Kohls (Little Co. line), Carter’s (Little Planet line), Rylee + Cru
MOMS AND GIRLS:
DRESSES FOR MOM:
MY AMAZON LINK:
outfits I have marked that would photograph well can be seen here.
Another blog post that is helpful is this one: How to Prepare for Your Family Session
Ready to book your family session? Let’s chat!
February 11, 2024
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