It's easy for me to suggest you type "Family Outfits for Photos" into Pinterest.... You'll see a plethora of ideas for your family session!
But once you start scrolling, it can be overwhelming and hard to find those colors or outfits. Then you're suddenly stressed and dreading your session.
Here are the tips that I give every client from couples to maternity to families -
Choose several complimenting colors. Pick some of your hues that coordinate well together and stick to them. What are your family’s favorite colors? Don’t choose one color for the whole family- multiple colors will add dimension to your images.
Pick one pattern and go from there. Avoid dressing the whole family in patterns. 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.
Be comfortable. Make sure that everyone’s clothing fits properly and is weather appropriate. If you’re hot or cold during your session it’s less likely that you’ll appear happy and relaxed in your photos. This is especially true for children. If you feel good in your clothes, it shows!
Looking for more inspiration?
Colorful Patterns
Here is a fun option with a pop of yellow and playful patterns. I am loving how the yellow and blue compliment each other! Can you just imagine these on your family in a wide open field of grass? You would be sure to look fantastic!
Light and Natural
This light and warm color palette is a perfect neutral option that will look good anytime of year in almost any location you can imagine. If you are drawn to light neutral tones with a hint of warmth or blue-green hues, try this family outfit idea!
Dressy yet Casual
Not everyone loves a floral flow-y dress, but if you do, this combination is for you! I added in a bit of pattern to direct focus towards Mom, with the rest of the family in comfortable neutral tones. This combination would look amazing against all the beautiful spring flowers!
If you're still reading...
You probably are looking for some more help so here are some more DO's and Don'ts-
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.
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, layer with cardigans, vests, scarves, boots and hats.
DO: Purchase clothes that fit your body. It can be tempting to buy kids clothes a size bigger so they will have room to grow, but for photo sessions it’s not the best idea. Avoid looking sloppy by wearing well fitting garments. Likewise, avoid clothes (and shoes) that are too small, if you're tugging on your too short pants, it will show in the photos =)
DON’T: Wear neon colors. They don’t photograph well and cast colors onto the skin of those wearing them. No one wants a bright yellow face!
DON’T: Match! Matching is out, coordinating is in! Remember, it doesn’t have to match, it just has to GO together. Outfits should complement each other, not match each other.
DON’T: Wear solid black or solid white clothing. These colors don’t show dimensions when photographed and make for dull, boring images. If you love black or white, look for something with a texture or small pattern, which will help give dimension to your outfit =)
And if all else fails, you are welcome to email or text me for help!