When booking a family photoshoot, many people ask me the same question: what should my family wear to the session? I enjoy helping with this and have some simple tips for you below. These tips can assist you in putting together matching family outfits.
I find it helpful when the mother selects her favourite outfit first. Alternatively, if there is a special item of clothing for another family member, like a patterned baby romper, you can use that as a starting point to coordinate the rest of the family's outfits.
Choose your colour palette
I always suggest choosing 3-5 colours to work with. Neutrals and soft colours are the easiest to style cohesively, while bold and bright colours can be distracting. Find one outfit you love and use it as the starting point to build the rest of the family's outfits. If you choose a patterned outfit, incorporate colours from the pattern into the clothing of other family members.
Also, consider where you will display these photos in your home. Make sure the backdrop and your clothing colours complement your home decor. It's best to dress in soft, warm, earthy tones to achieve the style we are going for. Soft, neutral colours like white, cream, beige, and light brown work really well. Use the colour guide below as a reference:
Choose a feature pattern
I recommend that only one family member wears a patterned outfit, while the rest wear solid colors that complement the patterned item. Too many patterns mixed together can look distracting and busy. In some cases, you can use two patterned outfits if they truly complement each other, such as having similar colours or one having a subtle pattern.
Mix it up with some texture
It looks great when families incorporate textured clothing into their styling. Think of fabrics like knit, waffle, linen, corduroy, and lace. Adding texture brings interest and depth to your photos. Clothing items with movement, like flowy skirts and dresses, can also enhance the overall look.
Comfort is key
Ultimately, wearing clothing that makes you feel comfortable and beautiful is the best choice. It will make you shine more during your shoot. Avoid clothing that is too tight or too loose. It's also important to ensure kids are dressed comfortably for the shoot. Make sure they are warm enough and have appropriate footwear for the location. If you are having a studio session, you don't have to worry about footwear because you will be barefoot.
Things to avoid
Avoid clothing with large graphics or brand name logos. These can quickly become outdated and distract from your photos. Avoid dressing the family in matching outfits, like white tops and jeans. This look is dated and won't reflect your family's unique style. Be cautious with too many patterns. If everyone wears something patterned, it can create a busy and overwhelming look. It's best to have only one person, or at most two, wearing a pattern. Choose clothing that fits well and is comfortable. You want to move freely and interact with your kids without feeling restricted. Also, make sure your tops or dresses fit properly to avoid showing bra straps.
Summary
Choosing the right outfits for your family or maternity photography session can make a significant difference in the final images. By selecting a cohesive colour palette, incorporating texture, and ensuring comfort, you can create timeless photos that beautifully capture your family's unique style. Remember to avoid overly busy patterns and outdated graphics to keep the focus on the moments you are capturing. With these simple tips, you'll be well-prepared to look and feel your best, resulting in cherished photos that you and your family will love for years to come.
