What to Wear to a Family Photo Shoot
Okay, you’ve hired your dream photographer, and you’ve picked out your perfect location, and so, it’s time to plan your outfits. Here are my top family photo outfit ideas.
Consider the Location
A beach shoot is going to require clothes that can get a little sandy and wet, while a forest location might require sturdy footwear. Take into consideration where your photo shoot is taking place and plan your outfits to go with the vibe.
On the beach, I see a lot of families in pastels and breezy materials, but when I shoot in homes, families prefer to keep it cozy and simple in t-shirts.
Start With You
You need to start somewhere when picking outfits, so start with yourself. Start building outfits from there based on the colors you like or the pieces you want to wear.
Complementary Colors
The days of all-matching jeans and white t-shirts are mostly gone. Nowadays, families are opting for complementary colors and outfits. Find a palette or mood board and select pieces that go together. Stick to mostly neutral colors with a few pops of color. This could be a bold dress on one of the kids or a jacket that stands out.
Some examples:
Bright and Dark
I generally caution families to avoid clothes that are too bright or too dark. A neon yellow dress or having everyone in navy and black can make it hard for your photographer to edit the photos afterward.
If you love pink, opt for a rose or pastel instead of the brighter alternatives.
Comfort Over Everything
Try everything on before the day of your photoshoot. Buying new shoes and forgetting to try them on can spell disaster if they end up being a bit too small for your toddler. Let everyone wear their outfits for an afternoon in the house before you take them to your session.
When I say comfort, I also mean that your outfit should feel like you. Pick what makes you feel beautiful and comfortable.
Keep It Classic
By opting for classic choices and avoiding outfits that are overly trendy, your images will fit into your home for years to come.
This includes keeping your patterns muted and minimal, too many stripes or conflicting flannel patterns can be distracting. Similarly, a big word or logo on a t-shirt will grab someone’s eye before they take in the rest of the photo.
Have a Backup
If your family photos include little ones... have a backup for them. It is almost inevitable that after an hour of getting everyone ready, your youngest will find some sort of juice or dirt to stain their light-colored shorts.
Let Kids Choose
Give your kids a few coordinating choices and let them feel as though they are part of the process. If they are excited to wear a shirt they love, you are less likely to have cranky faces in your final photos.
Shoes!
Don’t forget about what goes on your feet! Luckily, for beach photoshoots, footwear is totally optional.
If your location is outdoors or in the grass, keep it simple with flats or sandals. Heels are likely to sink into the ground, and the last thing we want is a candid photo of you tripping!
Accessories
Pick accessories that add to your outfits but keep it simple.
Book a Family Session
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