What in the world should I wear?
One of the most asked questions photographers everywhere receive! What in the world should I wear for my session? I have got you covered! Coordinating your outfits can be the hardest part of the entire session! General rule of thumb, do not try to match exactly, avoid bright and distracting colours, avoid large prints or patterns. Neutral tones tend to look best with a pop of one or two complimentary colours. Instead of focusing on prints and patterns, focus on different textures; things like chunky knits, ruffles, tulle, lace, etc.
START WITH ON PERSON.
Once you have on outfit chosen for sure, try to work around that outfit for other members in your family.I typically recommend starting with mom or a daughter, since they tend to have more colour and print options. Another option would be to start with the pickiest clothing wearer in the family and work around what they are most comfortable in.
COMPLEMENT, DON'T MATCH.
The days of all matching outfits, I'm talking the all white shirts and jeans or denim head to toe (sorry mom!) have gone! We now love colours that complement each other instead few ideas would be softer colours like light blues, gray or blush together or warmer colours such as browns, oranges and burgundy.If you are looking for more colourful images then leaning towards the more vivid colours would provide you with that. Keep in mind the colour of your background, typically greens in most cases if shot outside.
Generally solid coloured clothing works best.
Pops of pattern can look great, but if you are looking for that fail-proof method family outfit combinations, go with solids. Avoid any tiny prints, especially small plaid and small pin stripes. Instead focus on textures of the clothing.
STICK TO ONE OUTFIT
Outfit changes can cut down on shooting time, and most often then not can make children go from happy and playful to irritable, which ultimately doesn't end with the best images. One outfit is really all that is needed to achieve wonderful images.
BE SURE TO PLAN FOR THE WEATHER!
Nothing is worse the being uncomfortable in your perfect outfit! Make sure you check the weather before heading out for your session. Bring some sweaters if it might rain of the wind is picking up. You do not want to look like you are not comfortable! Remember it is always easier to add layers then it is to take them off!
Below you will find some sample colour palettes and outfit inspiration for the entire family!
Overall Tips
SAY YES TO
Comfort: when you feel good, you look good! We want you to feel your best!
Texture: adds visual interest without being too distracting.
Layers and Accessories: this is the quickest and probably the easiest way to take your outfit from good to great.Think scarves, blazers, cardigans, belts, jewelry, or hats (but maybe not your favorite ball cap this time)
Fitted Clothing: we want to make sure you feel you best, so ensuring that your clothes are not to baggy or too tight is very important. You also want to make sure they are balanced, for example a flowing top with a skinny pant or vice versa.
Classic choices: try to avoid any fashion "trends" they will date your images years from now.
SAY NO TO
Formal Wear: unless we are shooting at a formal venue then you will probably look out of place in relation to your surroundings.
Bright White: if you are set on white, try an off white or ivory instead.
Dark Colours: these will bring down the feeling in the overall image, in moderation they are alright but if you are looking for that light and bright image avoiding blacks, dark browns, or grays will most definitely help.
Neon Colours: these can cause skin tones to look muted and unnatural.
Very Saturated Colours: lean towards the more toned down version of that colour. For example; instead of picking bright red try a burgundy or maroon, mustard in place of bright yellow.
Logos and Text: these will draw the eye away from what is really important in the image, which is your beautiful faces!
Athletic Shoes: self explanatory here, time to break out those dress shoes sitting in the back of your closet.
Transition Lenses and Sunglasses: if you wear glasses everyday please do where them to your session. However, transition lenses and sunglasses hide your eyes and we want to see them in all their glory!
Holiday Colours: we want you to enjoy your images all year, avoiding the holiday colour schemes help with that! Even if you do plan on using them for holiday cards, let the design of the cards reflect the holiday!
Short Sleeved T-Shirts: although t-shirts are comfortable, shirts with collars and more structure tend to look better in portraits. If you are set on a t-shirt, try layering it with a jacket or a cardigan.
Tiny plaid, small prints or over complicated patterns: tiny details do not always translate perfectly on camera.
