Planning your family photo session can be both exciting and a little overwhelming. One of the biggest questions families ask is, “What should we wear?” While your outfits aren’t the focus, they do play a key role in creating a cohesive and timeless look for your photos. To help you prepare, here are five essential tips to ensure everyone feels confident, comfortable, and camera-ready!
1. Coordinate Your Family’s Style (Avoid the Family Uniform!)
It’s tempting to match everyone in identical outfits, but trust me—your family will thank you if you don’t! Instead, aim for a coordinated look in the same tonal range. Start by finding outfits for mom and the girls in your family, as their clothing options tend to have bolder choices in stores. Then, select simple but coordinated outfits for dad and the boys to tie the look together.
For example:
- If mom wears a floral dress, pull coordinating colors from the pattern for dad’s shirt and the kids’ outfits.
- Choose tones that complement each other without being too matchy-matchy.
This approach creates a cohesive yet natural style that works for any setting, from a museum to a flower garden.
2. Wear Something That Makes You Feel Good
This might seem obvious, but it’s one of the most important tips. When you feel comfortable and confident, it shows in your photos! Here’s how to achieve this:
- Choose outfits that make you feel happy, relaxed, and free to move. On-location photography often involves walking or quick transitions between shots, so make sure your clothing allows you to move comfortably.
- If you love your heels, bring them! But don’t forget to pack comfy shoes for in-between locations.
When everyone feels great in their outfits, those authentic smiles will shine through in every photo.
3. Embrace Bold Colors and Patterns (But Keep It Balanced)
Bold colors and patterns can add personality and energy to your photos when used thoughtfully. While some photographers shy away from them, they can be stunning when done right. Here’s how to make them work:
- Treat bold colors like accessories—use them sparingly to avoid overwhelming the shot.
- Balance bold patterns by dressing the rest of the family in simpler, solid colors pulled from the pattern’s palette.
- For example, if one family member wears a patterned dress, choose solid outfits for others in complementary tones.
The result is a dynamic, visually pleasing look that lets your family’s personality shine.
4. Accessories and Layers Create Variety Without Multiple Wardrobe Changes
Want your photos to look like you had multiple wardrobe changes without the hassle? Accessories and layers are your best friends!
- Think sweaters, jackets, scarves, hats, and even jewelry. These can be added or removed to create different looks quickly.
- Layers not only add texture and depth but can also double as fun props, especially for kids!
For example, throwing on a cozy scarf or swapping a hat can instantly transform your look, giving your session more variety without disrupting the flow.
5. For Moms: The Secret to Looking Slimmer on Camera
Here’s a pro tip for moms who want to feel extra confident in front of the camera: wear the same color from head to toe.
- A monochromatic look, especially in mid-tone colors like blue or brown, creates a long, slimming line.
- Avoid wearing lighter colors on the bottom, as the eye is naturally drawn to the lightest part of a photo, which could emphasize areas you’d rather not highlight.
Photo Shoot No-No’s to Keep in Mind
To ensure your session goes smoothly, avoid these common pitfalls:
- No words or logos: They’re distracting and can date your photos.
- No last-minute haircuts: Give your hair a few days to settle after a cut for the best look.
- Skip overly trendy styles: Trends fade quickly—stick to classic looks for timeless photos.
- Limit wardrobe changes for kids: One or two great looks are plenty to keep little ones happy.
The Bottom Line: Have Fun!
Your family photo session is all about capturing the love and connection you share. Take a little time to prepare, pack a few backup clothing items (just in case!), and consult with your photographer if you have any questions. When everyone feels comfortable and confident, you’ll end up with photos you’ll love for years to come.
Need Help or Have Questions?
Still wondering what to wear or how to prepare? I’m here to help! Feel free to reach out via text or email with any questions or concerns. Let’s make your photo session as stress-free and fun as possible!
📞 Phone: 916-342-5974
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