Family

Coordinating: As you’re coordinating your outfit with your family, keep in mind that your outfits will look the most cohesive on camera when the color palette and wardrobe pieces coordinate, but don’t actually “match.” In fact, we recommend that you avoid thinking about “matching,” and instead think about what “fits” together. This will create more visual interest and allow each personality to shine through.

Mixing Colors: The goal for coordinating a family is to visually break up the colors and shades so that you’re not all wearing the same color on top and bottom. The more we can mix that up, the better. We encourage you to think about planning each outfit with “dominant colors” and “accent colors” in mind. A dominant color is the color that you see the most in an outfit, while an accent has a smaller piece of visual real estate. When you’re planning each family member’s outfit, if you can aim for each person to have a different dominant color, and then tie in and vary the accent colors, it’s going to look great all together.

Remember, I recommend selecting those softer, lighter tones and avoiding those ultra-bright, bold colors. The camera loves shades of soft pink and muted blues, mixed with sophisticated light neutrals like heather gray, creams, leather brown and white.

If you have multiple children, don’t feel like you need to put them all in the same type of outfit. For example, one of your daughters could wear a dress and flats, while the other wears a skirt and boots. One of your sons could wear a bow tie, while the other one wears suspenders. Mixing up the wardrobe pieces will bring a great visual interest to the photos.

Mom

Dress It Up: There is no such thing as “too dressed up” when it comes to your portrait session, so don’t be afraid to have some fun! Wear that beautiful dress that hangs in your closet, or that flower crown that you thought you would never find an occasion for.

However, if jeans is more your style, I just recommend getting a fit that you really love and feel great in. If you choose to wear something more casual on the bottom, then think about dressing it up on top. A beautiful flowy top can make your outfit feel special for this occasion. When it comes to make up, keep it natural. You will want to avoid using very heavy makeup, but a bit of color on your lips, eyes, and cheeks will help bring you to life in photos. Quick Tip: Bring a pair of easy-to-kick-off flats to wear when moving from place to place in between photos. 

Flatter Your Features: In my experience, every woman, regardless of her shape has an area of her body that she’s self-conscious about, so recognizing what area that is in advance is key. Choosing flattering silhouettes and colors that complement your natural features is the best way to ensure you’ll love the way you look in your photos.

Three-quarter length sleeves create an awesome slimming effect on all arms, so be on the lookout for an option with a longer length sleeve. You could also bring a cute jacket, blazer or cardigan along, too. Skinny straps or strapless dresses have the opposite effect on arms on camera, so we recommend avoiding those whenever possible if your goal is a set of slimmer-looking arms. Heels elongate women’s legs, making them look fabulous. Closed-toed heels in particular look great on camera because they carry out the line of your leg all the way down to your toe.

Pairing an accessory or two with your outfit can really help bring some extra dimension and pop to your images. Try a statement necklace, earrings, or flower crown for fun!

Dad

The Fit: Long, fitted pants or jeans and closed-toed shoes are the most sophisticated and masculine look for men. So, for your session, it’s best to leave the shorts and sandals at home, as well as any pants that are loose or baggy. Fitted dress pants, jeans, or fitted colored pants work best on camera. Solid shades of gray or navy are a strong compliment to most women’s outfits. I also recommend staying away from graphics and logos as we don’t want to take the attention away from him!

Layers & Details: Layers on men look great on camera, so even when it’s hot outside, adding another layer will bring extra dimension to your photos. Blazers, vests and coats are the best choices. Don’t be afraid to get a little creative with layers!

Brown leather dress shoes compliment almost every look, whether he’s wearing a full suit, jeans, or a blazer and colored pants. Ties, bow ties, pocket squares, colored socks, belts, tie clips, suspenders, vests and watches are sharp compliments to any outfit for men and boys.

Children

I always suggest dressing the little ones in something more dressy instead of their casual play wear. Dressy clothes, even on kids, will automatically make your photos stand out! Remember, there is no such thing as “too dressed up” for your portrait session, so have some fun!

I know they may be little, but many of the tips For Her and For Him still apply to the kids. (They’re basically little adults anyway, right?) For the girls, dresses and accessories are perfect! Maybe add a fun flower crown or bow for an extra pop of beautiful. For the boys, layers are adorable! And don’t forget about the cute details like suspenders or a fun bow tie!