More than any other question, I find that clients always ask what they should wear to their family session. Coordinating your outfits can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be! This page covers some hints and tips to help you with styling.
Complement each other
We want colors that generally complement each other: so for instance, soft colors (light blue, gray, blush) or warm colors (brown, orange, burgundy, mustard). You don’t have to go all ‘matchy-matchy’ if that’s not your style but a bit of forward planning to ensure everyone is in the same ‘colour family’ can go a long way.
Generally, solids work best
Pops of pattern can definitely look great, but if you’re looking for a fail-proof family combination, go with solids. To keep things from looking boring, include textures (think chunky knits, tulle, lace, etc). Avoid tiny prints, especially small plaid and small stripes as they can throw off a freaky-deaky effect when photographed (called moire).
Another approach is to put most of the family in different neutral shades (i.e. ivory, gray, beige) and then add a few pops of coordinating color. Works every time.
Consider your home style
If you’re planning to hang your images in your living room that’s decorated in all white, you probably don’t want your clothing to be dark and moody. If you’re hanging them in a colorful nursery, then consider what outfits might compliment this best.
Ditch the branding
You’ll want to avoid any clothing with large graphics, prints or branding emblazoned on it as these can be quite distracting. Also, these prints often ‘date’ a photograph, as brands and labels come and go. You want to be able to look back on these photos in years to come and still feel they could have been taken just yesterday.
Plan for the weather
Nothing is worse than being miserably uncomfortable in a perfect outfit. If you’re planning an outdoor session and the weather is looking a bit iffy, think layers. We’re so lucky in NZ with the abundance of merino clothing for adults and kids that can easily be layered up to look good and everyone can feel snuggly warm.
Try on your clothes well in advance
Check your outfits from all possible angles in the mirror, not just the one you like best. Try sitting, squatting, leaning forward, etc. The kids’ clothes should work well in motion so that we can play during your session (think flying, tickling, and hanging upside down).
Let the kids have their say
If your daughter hates wearing dresses, don’t force her to wear one for photo day. If your son only wants to live in shorts, find some tidy ones and let him be comfortable. Happy kids make for happy photos!
Speaking of kids….
Not strictly clothing related, but if you have little ones involved, make sure to bring along plenty of snacks (and a drink) to keep the hunger pangs at bay and to keep them occupied when it’s not their time in the spotlight. Also, feel free to bring along a special soft toy in your handbag that we can bust out for some extra smiles if needbe!
