What should we wear for my photo-shoot?!
Wardrobe colors/color combinations and styles are very important for the outcome of photographs. Selecting an all-look for the session could be immensely stressful, so I hope the documentation below assists you.
In fewer words: This document provides a guide for selecting an all-out clothing look for a photo session. It includes advice on what to wear and how to arrange it so that the photograph looks its best.
Step-by-Step Guide to choosing your Outfits
Here is a quick step-by-step guide to our top tips and best advice as you choose your outfits!
1. Choose the Location
Before you even think about what outfits to wear, talk with your photographer about location options and what type of look you'd like. Is this going to be a casual beach session or are we giving a more formal downtown vibe? The location actually matters quite a bit when it comes to picking the right outfit. First, consider the feel you're going for, and then work with your photographer to find somewhere that will capture that theme perfectly.
2. Where to start with the wardrobe?
When trying to come up with an outfit, it can be difficult to know where to start. But by starting with one piece of clothing, you can build upon that and create a more complete look. My advice would be to start with mom or daughter. Since women’s clothing usually contains more colors and prints. Additionally, since mothers often have greater influence when it comes to fashion choices for their daughters, this could help encourage variety in an individual’s wardrobe choice.
My finest advice is for you to wear a dress in your preferred color. Dresses are flattering, but you'll feel excellent in them. If you despise dresses, assume about a skirt / top combo, but pick up something that is relatively dresser than your every single day look. A good quality fabric will look great and feel comfortable.
3. Pick a color palette.
After you’ve chosen mom’s outfit, think about 2-3 coordinating colors. Also, the color you choose will affect your appearance and how sharp/bright your photo will look. Warmer colors like peach, cream, and brown, will give your photos a soft glowing look, while bold and vivid colors will produce a brighter and sharper appearance.
What colors photograph best?
Good Colors - Colors can really bring out the beauty in an image. This is what we think looks best for the style of the photograph, and it creates harmony and great tones for the final product.
Bad Colors - These colors don't photograph well and should be avoided. They will also reflect on anyone nearby (Face/Skin/Light Clothing), and making them less desirable for portraits.
OVERALL TIPS
COMFORT
When choosing clothing for your family fun, it is important to feel comfortable and look stylish. You don’t want clothes that are constantly falling off or feeling tight around your body. Select clothes that allow you to move freely and play with your kids without worrying about them coming off or getting in the way. For guys, this usually means shirts that can be untucked since they will be playing outside and doing active things with their children.
ACCESSORIZE
Don't forget to accessorize with earrings, bracelets, hats, and other accessories! Women should avoid wearing necklaces as they can get tangled during a cuddle and tickle moments with children.
TEXTURE
Textures can really make your photos stand out. They add a lot of dimensions and visual interest, so look for textures like chambray, faux fur, chunky knits, lace, tweed, and wool in your photo subjects.
MAKEUP
Apply your makeup in natural light to get an accurate idea of how it will look during photos outside. Apply a bit more than you usually would, blending foundation well with your neck and avoiding nude lipsticks which can wash you out. Wear lip gloss if desired (though chapstick is also acceptable). For dramatic eyes, use fake eyelashes that are the right length for your face; be sure to practice beforehand so that they look perfect on camera.
THINGS TO AVOID
OVERSIZED CLOTHING
Steer clear of cargo shorts, baggy jeans, and oversized clothing.
THIN STRIPES OR PLAIDS
Thin stripes and tight plaids distort in printed photos and appear zig-zaggy and thus should be avoided.
FORMALWEAR
Avoid outfits that are too formal for your setting. If you are in a natural area, a tuxedo, formal dress, tie/bowtie, might feel out of place.
NEON COLORS
Neon colors can reflect onto your face, causing skin tone problems in your photos. That neon green shirt will reflect upwards on your face and cause you to look green!
LOGOS/BRANDING
Logos or text on clothing is distracting. Avoid shirts that have logos (even just a simple Nike check mark or Polo horse is distracting).
STRAPLESS/SLEEVELESS TOPS
Unless you absolutely love your arms, avoid strapless or sleeveless tops. Sleeves are typically more flattering for everyone!
UNDERSHIRTS
Guys, it’s best to avoid wearing white undershirts that hang out of the top of your shirt or sleeves.
ATHLETIC SHOES
White tennis shoes, athletic shoes, and character shoes (think Disney princess shoes) should all be avoided. Leather shoes, casual sneakers (think Converse), sandals, slide-on canvas shoes, and wedges are all great options.
LOW-CUT AND OVERLY TIGHT SHIRTS
Low-cut shirts can shift during the session and leave you a little more revealed than you intended. Clothing that is overly tight and clings to you is uncomfortable and can leave bulges and bumps in places you don’t want.
BABY OUTFITS WITH DIAPERS PEEKING OUT
An adorably cute moment with your baby can be ruined by the green-lined diaper that is hanging out of a little romper or dress. Avoid baby clothing that doesn’t completely cover those little Pampers.
TRANSITIONAL LENSES
If you typically wear glasses, wear them for your session. But if you have polarized or transitional lenses, consider taking them off. Dark glasses will cover your eyes in the photos.
There's no harm in wearing something that you wouldn't normally wear.
Feel free to reach out for help :)
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…and you feel like this whole post is too much for you to handle…First of all, I want to say that it's okay if it feels overwhelming. Start with one outfit—probably yours, mom! Try starting with something you love or would look flattering on yourself, and then coordinate a few other colors and build on top of that!
Remember: these photos are about preserving the family bond in photographs—not just about stylish outfits! If looking good makes you feel better about how the photo turns out (and it should!), then by all means go for it!
Please don't worry! If you have any questions, let us know. We want to document these sweet moments and keep these memories forever!
If you are still reading this…
Your photo session day is finally here!
I am looking forward to your photo session! Make sure to relax and have fun. And If you feel stressed, your kids will sense it and likely fall apart as well. Each family with lots of quirks is beautiful in their own way. Be yourself and let's capture the memories that will last a lifetime!
Also, your memory of the session is intrinsically tied to the photo, so my goal as a photographer is to create an enjoyable and memorable experience for you and your kids. Playing together and making lasting memories will make it all worth it!