What to Wear to your Photo Session

Need to know what to wear to your photography session???

I get this question pretty frequently. You have everyone’s outfits picked out except your own, or have no idea how to dress the kids. If these scenarios sound familiar, let me help!

Coordinate, but don’t match

Prints, patterns and logos are typically a “no” – these become distractions quickly! For family portraits I usually advise wearing different shades of the same color or complimentary colors, rather than matching. Picking a “theme” of warm, neutral colors, pastels, or solid, cooler colors can be one way to figure out what to wear quickly. One good tip is to lay out or hang up the outfits you plan to wear; if your eye is drawn to any particular piece of clothing then that piece of clothing will also stand out in your pictures.

Babies are usually best in their birthday suits, that is, no clothes. However, if you decide you want to dress baby for photos then solid colors are advised.

When you’re out of ideas: black is slimming, pastels enhance natural skin tones and kids look great in solid colored outfits that fit well.

Less is more

 A necklace, some earrings, a pretty scarf, hat or headband can help can complete an image, while too much creates noise and distraction. You, your family and your kids should stand out in a picture, not be swallowed by scarves and jewelry! Accessories should complement, not be center stage.

In my own family pictures I’ve used headbands and hats as ways to get a quick “wardrobe change” in a shoot!

Styling those piggies and that mane!

Sneakers are usually a no but fun flashes of color can be incorporated into pictures using quirky socks. Just remember to coordinate your shoes with the overall theme of your outfits.

Whether you plan to do your own hair and makeup or have it done professionally, remember, simplicity is key. Typically slightly darker makeup than you would normally wear is fine for the camera. Remember though: you want the pictures to focus on you and let your natural beauty show!