what should I wear?
Of course, this is the number one question I get for photo sessions. My short answer is, “Whatever you want!” But we all know it’s a little more complicated than that, especially when adding kiddo’s outfits to the mix. Below are some styling suggestions to help you sort out a little easier what to wear to make your session a success!
Color Palette
For a color palette, I suggest choosing 3-5 colors to work with. Neutrals and soft colors are the easiest to style cohesively, bold and bright colors can be distracting and stand out too much, particularly in the outdoors. Find one outfit you love and build the rest of the family's outfits from there. I find it helpful when Mom finds an outfit she loves best first, or if there is a special item of clothing that you have for another family member eg: patterned baby romper, that way you can build the rest of the family outfits around that piece. If you have a patterned outfit you have chosen, you can pull colors from the pattern to inject into other family members outfits. It’s also wise to think about where you will be displaying these photos in your home, will the backdrop and your clothing colors match in nicely with your home decor?
Texture
It looks so good when families add textured clothing to their styling, think knit or waffle fabrics, linen, corduroy, lace etc. Adding texture just adds interest and depth to your photos. Having some items of clothing with movement helps as well (think flowy skirts and dresses).
Pattern
I recommend only one family member wears a patterned outfit, the rest wear solid colors that compliment the patterned item. Having too many patterns mixed together can look distracting and busy. You can sometimes get away with using two patterned outfits as long as they really compliment each-other, being similar colors, or one having a really subtle pattern.
Final thoughts + Things to Avoid
Ultimately wearing clothing that you feel comfortable and beautiful in will be best. It will make you shine that little bit more during your shoot. Rules are meant to be broken and while these are generally the best route most of the time, the most important thing is that you look and feel like yourselves.
Wearing clothing that is uncomfortable or not something you would normally wear will show in the images. It’s also a must to make sure kids are dressed comfortably for the shoot, make sure they are warm enough and have appropriate footwear for the area we are shooting at.
Things to avoid:
Clothing which has large graphics, patterns, or brand name logos on it. They will stand out and be distracting in your photos.
Styling the family in matchy-matchy outfits (think white tops and jeans). This look is a little dated and won’t reflect your family's unique style.
Too many patterns. If everyone wears something patterned it's going to look super busy, the best rule to follow is one person wears a pattern, two at most.
Clothing that doesn’t fit you well or is restrictive, you want to be comfortable in your shoot and be able to run with the kids and cuddle them comfortably, you also don't want your bra straps showing in ill fitting tops / dresses, or have to constantly re-adjust a clothing piece.
For specific color palette and outfit inspiration check out my Pinterest board: Family Outfit Inspo
The Sorak family is an awesome example of showing your own style while still having a solid color palette and just one pattern.