Do you ever hesitate to book family photos because you don’t know what to wear? If you’re stressing about wardrobe, don’t let it hold you back! Generally, the photographer that you book with will give you all of the advice and information on what colors and styles will work best with their editing style and the location of your session. Definitely reach out to your photographer and chat about styling. However, here are some tips to get you started on what tends to work well, and what doesn’t!

AVOID MATCHING OUTFITS

Gone are the days of everyone wearing the same shirt or even the same exact colors. It’s cute when families and kids dress alike, I know. But trust me, you want to steer clear of this method when it comes to your family photos. Your images will lack depth and contrast if everyone wears the same thing, and then you will all generally just blend in with each other. Especially if you don’t take into account the location you will be using for the session. Imagine all 5 of you wearing green shirts, and then your backdrop for every photo is luscious green grass and tall trees. How will you pop against that background? You won’t – unless you take this information into account. Same with photos on the beach- you need some color to pop against the background versus blending in with whites and blues. Please do yourself, and your photographer, a favor and avoid matchy-matchy looks. Instead, pick one main color you want to work with, and start by styling mom while incorporating that color.

Style Mom First

Mom’s are the ones who generally book the session, and us photographers want them to feel amazing during their session. Therefore, I always recommend starting with mom’s outfit first. Once you have this settled, it’s easy to style everyone else around you. After mom finds her outfit, find coordinating colors that go well with the main color in her outfit and are consistent with your photographer’s brand. It’s easy to see what color’s they generally photograph- just take a peek at their social platforms. Mixing in patterns is also an awesome way to add texture and depth. Layer one child with a cardigan over her gingham dress, and then add a shirt for her brother with a color that coordinates with the shades in sister’s patterned dress or mom’s outfit. Key word here is “coordinates,” not completely matches. Find a shirt with buttons for extra texture!

ACCESSORIZE

Don’t forget to accessorize! Hats and jewelry can really bring a family’s wardrobe to the next level. I like to add extra pops of color and texture within my accessories. Find a braided bracelet, or a statement necklace or belt in a bold color. Hair clips are awesome options for little girls. Boys don’t need to be left out either – a simple pair of suspenders with his shirt and jeans will add the perfect touch.

Rock on!
-Jenelle