Family Clothing Guide
One thing I've always stressed is this:
These photos are your memories. Not for me, not for your friends, and not to be trendy. You'll be looking back at these images for decades to come.
Some things to think about when pulling outfits:
Location! Let's start with footwear - heels aren't recommended for rural + beach sessions. They would be just fine for a downtown/urban shoot!
Personalities! Are you a soft, quiet family? Do you want images of togetherness and gentle posing? Or are you loud, wild, and fun?
Homestyle! Do you tend to lean toward neutrals or bold colors in your home? What will feel organic hanging on your walls?
Choices that are winners no matter
what the style:
Layers, textures, and patterns!
AVOID: logos, printed images, and neon colors!
Coordination is key.
You don’t have to be matchy-matchy.
WHAT TO WEAR | WHOLE FAMILY
For family photos to stand the test of time and not look dated, pick classic pieces from your children's closets or head to Target (or TJ Maxx) and buy clothes that match your family's personalities and complement each others' color choices.
Everyone wearing the same color/shade can look too matchy-matchy, don't hesitate to email me with outfit ideas in the days before your shoot! If you need help or inspiration, I can send suggestions.
Again - avoid collars, clothing that is too large, and skirts and dresses that are too short without bloomers.
WHAT TO WEAR | MOMS
I always tell moms, to pick your outfit first! Choose something that you feel 1000% confident in, both in fit, style, and colors.
While dresses are always a beautiful choice, don't feel like you need to wear one if you're not someone who normally wears dresses!
Shawls and wraps, chunky sweaters, and/or a fun hat are all great ways to change up your look during the shoot!
Pay special attention to details! Necklaces, rings, bracelets, earrings, footwear, a good belt, and hair accessories (headbands, barrettes, ribbons, etc) - all contribute to an overall look and are such a fun way to bring your personality to your photos.
Please be mindful of your nails, as your hands will be photographed. Also, be sure to bring your lip color to reapply as needed!
WHAT TO WEAR | DADS
In the photography world, there are what I like to call "unicorn dads" who not only have great fashion sense but enthusiastically look forward to having family photos done every year.
Although mine does look forward to having family photos done, his fashion sense is slightly "off".
I've found that giving Tony options works best -- let him feel like he has a choice in the matter and go from there!
Make sure to remind them to empty their pockets -- keys, cellphones, and wallets! Also, I sound like a broken record, but footwear is so important!
I've never been the kind of mom who is opposed to bribing my kids with ice cream to behave during a shoot, and also have been known to bribe Nick with something a bit more incentivizing as well!
WHAT TO WEAR | KIDS
A couple of good rules:
Don't have multiple kids wearing the same "look", i.e. all girls in the same length dress, all boys in the same color of jeans. Mixing up with skirts, dresses, jeans, corduroy, and colors looks good!
LAYERS are your friend!
Mix up patterns and textures with complimenting colors.
Footwear and socks are so important! Make sure to not treat shoes/boots as an afterthought.
For longer-haired kids, make sure hair is styled in a way that you won't be worrying about hair in your child's eyes!
Please be mindful of their nails, both in cleanliness and polish!