What to Wear to your family portrait session? This is the burning question for most clients. Choosing the right outfits for your family portrait session can make a big difference in the overall look of your photos. How do I dress my family and keep my sanity at the same time? Relax, friend! I’ve got you! Here are some tips to help you choose outfits that will complement each other and look great in photos:
1. Coordinate, Don’t Match.
- It’s best to choose outfits that coordinate rather than match. This means selecting colors that complement each other without being identical.
- Choose several complimenting colors and stick to them. Pick some of your hues that coordinate well together and go from there. What are your family’s favorite colors? Don’t choose one color for the whole family – multiple colors will add dimension to your images. Have fun with it!
- Pick one pattern and go from there. A good idea is to choose one item, a dress for example, with a pattern containing the colors you love. Then choose colors from the item that you love for the other family members to wear.
2. The Do’s and the Don’ts: Let’s start with the Do’s
- DO: Wear layers!! Layers add dimension and depth to your images. If it’s hot outside layer with accessories – cute belts, necklaces, bracelets, etc. If it’s cool weather cardigans, vests, scarves, boots and hats are all great examples. Avoid graphics on clothing – accessorize instead!
- DO: Purchase clothes that fit your body. It can be tempting to buy kids clothing a size bigger so they’ll have room to grow, but for photo sessions it’s not the best idea. Avoid looking sloppy by wearing well fitting garments.
- DO: Start with one outfit and build the rest of the family clothing from there. It can be overwhelming trying to choose all the outfits at once so start small and build from there. Everything doesn’t have to be new, shop your closet!
- DON’T: Wear neon colors. They don’t photograph well and cast colors onto the skin of those who are wearing them. No one wants a bright yellow face! Also think about the location – what will it be like? If you’ll be outside with a green meadow as a backdrop, avoid wearing green.
- DON’T: Match! Matching is out, coordinating is in. Remember, it doesn’t have to match, it just has to GO. Outfits should complement each other, not match. Add interest by wearing different textures, layers and complimenting colors.
- DON’T: Wear solid black or solid white clothing. These colors don’t show dimension when photographed and make for dull, boring images. That doesn’t mean wear shirts with large graphics or logos – we suggest avoiding those, too. Patterns, textures and colors are how we add interest.
3. Where to Shop: A few of my favorites
- Old Navy & Gap: An affordable place to shop for the whole family. It’s easy to find simple patterns and solid colors.
- H&M: Another affordable one stop shop, you’ll find plenty of neutral colors and easy to layer items for the whole family here.
- Zara: One of my favorites! Super cute suspender outfits for little boys and tons of sweet dresses for girls. Perfect for kids outfits! Also affordable.
- Boden: A little more pricey but great quality with clothing for both kids and adults. They have great clearance so be sure to check there first.
- Joyfolie: For moms and little girls, this is one of my most favorite sites! They do tend to run a bit on the large side, F.Y.I.
- Free People: For all of the boho mama’s, this is your site! A bit pricey, but very well made. Their sizing also usually runs large.
4. Don’t Overthink It.
- The most important thing is to choose outfits that make you feel comfortable and confident. Don’t stress too much about finding the perfect outfit. More importantly, HAVE FUN!
Here are some additional tips:
- Avoid bright neon colors. They cast flattering color on the skin.
- Choose solid colors or simple patterns. Solid colors and simple patterns will look best in photos.
- Consider the season. Choose outfits that are appropriate for the season.
- Have fun! The most important thing is to choose outfits that make you feel good.
By following these tips, you can choose outfits that will help your family portrait session look its best.
Ready to create something extraordinary together? Let’s connect and make magic happen!
P.S. Your family deserves more than just a quick session. The years fly by too fast. Let’s capture your family’s memories with the artistry and care it truly deserves.
Ready to capture your own family beautifully?
- Schedule a free consultation: Let’s chat about your vision and create a session that perfectly reflects your family’s style.
- Grab our Family Style guide: Filled with more tips and tricks for the perfect family session.
- Browse our family portfolio: Explore the wide range of emotions and moments we capture during newborn sessions.
I believe every family deserves beautiful portraits that preserve these fleeting moments. Contact Melissa Lyn Photography today, and let’s create timeless memories you’ll cherish forever.
I’d love to chat. Here’s how you can connect with me:
Melissa Lyn Photography
Your Temecula Family Photographer
(949) 433-0975
info@melissalynphotography.com
