What Do We Wear?

If you have booked your family photo shoot, you are likely very excited and thinking about what to wear. I am guilty myself of multiple Amazon orders and time on Pinterest trying to cultivate my favorite look.

This is one of the questions I get the most as a photographer, and my initial answer might be a bit unsatisfying: wear what is comfortable.

I know that's an oversimplification, but it is the most important place to start. If you or your children are wearing uncomfortable clothing, it will translate into your photos. Trying to capture joy when shoes, bras, or pants are driving you mad is a challenge most photographers cannot overcome. So, step 1: make sure it's comfortable.

Beyond comfort, let me give you three rules:

1. Pick a palette

Neutrals, earth tones, or jewel tones are all good choices for family photoshoot outfits. Start with a palette of 2-3 colors that complement each other. You can use a color wheel to help you choose colors that go well together.

Consider the location of your photo shoot when choosing a palette. For example, if you're shooting in a natural setting, you might want to choose a palette of earth tones. If you're shooting in a more urban setting, you might want to choose a palette of jewel tones.

Finally, think about your family's personal style when choosing a palette. Do you prefer classic and timeless colors, or do you like to make a statement with bold and trendy colors?

2. Coordinate, don't match

I strongly recommend coordinating instead of matching your family's outfits. Having everyone in a similar palette, but with different patterns and textures, will create a more visually interesting and cohesive look.

If you're having trouble coordinating outfits, try choosing a palette of neutral colors for everyone. This will help to create a cohesive look even if your outfits are different patterns or styles.

3. Incorporate prints or textures

A few well-placed prints or textures can add interest and dimension to your family photo shoot outfits. If you're using prints, be sure to choose patterns that are different sizes and scales. This will help to create a visual hierarchy and make your photos more interesting to look at.

Textures can also add interest to your photos. Try pairing a smooth fabric with a textured fabric, or a light fabric with a heavy fabric.

Here are some specific examples of how to incorporate prints or textures into your family photo shoot outfits:

• Mom wears a floral dress, while Dad wears a solid color shirt and pants. The kids wear solid color shirts and pants with patterned socks or shoes.

• One parent wears a textured sweater, while another parent wears a solid color shirt and pants. The kids wear solid color shirts and pants with patterned jackets or scarves.

• Mom wears a patterned skirt, while Dad wears a solid color shirt and pants. The kids wear solid color shirts and pants with patterned shoes or accessories.

No matter what you choose to wear, the most important thing is to feel confident and comfortable. Your happiness will shine through in your photos.

Additional tips:

• If you are having a newborn photo shoot, consider dressing your baby in footy PJs or onesies in simple, soft colors. This will create a classic and timeless look.

• If you are having a family photo shoot during the holidays, avoid wearing bright neon colors. These colors can be difficult to photograph and may not look their best in your photos.

• If you are having a family photo shoot in Florida, be prepared for the possibility of hot and humid weather. Choose lightweight and breathable fabrics for your outfits.

• Make sure everyone has comfortable footwear. Try shoes on ahead of time. Wear them. Outdoor shoots are almost always on grass, dirt, and other uneven surfaces, and play is one of my favorite parts of a session. If your movement or balance is impaired, play is slowed. If your children have uncomfortable shoes, their faces will reflect that. Footwear is important!

I hope these tips help you choose the perfect outfits for your family photo shoot!

Some other resources I recommend:
1. My Pinterest board. Listen, my families have good taste, here’s a snapshot of their outfit choices to inspire you!

2. Coolors.co is a fun little tool to give you some inspiration.