Don't worry, I got you!
Outfit Inspiration Guide
So you've booked your family session with me, and now you are realizing, "oh my goodness, what do we WEAR?!" This guide is designed to give you all the basics! Helpful tips about colors for each season, visual examples, as well as my personal advice about what looks the best on camera in conjunction with my editing style. Make sure to scroll all the way to the bottom for additional resources from me! Also, please reach out for any more help you may need- that's what I'm here for!
Where to start
My best piece of advice is to start with moms outfit FIRST! Moms tend to be the most particular about what they are wearing and its crucial mom is in an outfit that makes her feel happy! Then build everyone else's outfit around hers. My typical routine is moms outfit, then my daughters, then my sons, then dad! Sorry dad!lol
Location
Please consider WHERE the photos are taking place! If we are frolicking around a field or splashing in the creek, a suit or high heels probably will feel out of place! If you're doing a session in your home, consider leaving out the shoes! Unless its normal for your family to have shoes on at all times, it can feel out of place on the camera.
Extras
This is my personal preference for photos, but for all of my own family photos I choose two *complementing* patterns, then the rest solids! For example, a checkered gingham pattern and a simple floral.
I could go on about outfits forever!!! But I will include some of my own personal family outfits and real client examples below for you to check out!
Spring & Summer Inspiration
Light & Organic Color
I love lighter, bright colors for the warmer months. As well as adding in "earthy" colors to keep the outfits grounded. Think light colors- pinks, yellows/mustard, or blues! Then adding in pops of natural colors like browns/tans/greens/creams or white!
.
Balance
I am all for adding in pops of bright and bold colors and patterns! Just make sure to balance it out with simple solids and more organic colors!
.
Pattern
You can absolutely add in multiple patterns to your palette! I would just suggest keeping your patterns dainty and small if you are having multiple family members in a pattern. Then balance them out with solid colors!
.
Simplicity
I love outfits that just look and feel effortless, don't you? So keep it simple. Easy to maintain outfits that you feel comfortable in! Outfits that feel simple and down to earth are the best!
.
Texture
Adding texture is a great way to add personality to your images! Lace, linen, flowing fabric or ruffles, chunky brown buttons, light organic material, are all perfect examples! Still solid colors, but full of depth and personality!
.
Fall & Winter Inspiration
Texture & Pattern
Adding in pieces with texture is perfect for fall/winter sessions! Chunky sweaters, boots, velvet headbands, etc. are wonderful! You can definitely add in multiple patterns too, but keep them small and dainty! Always balance them out with solids, too!
.
Rich & Organic Color
I love rich, warm colors for the cooler months. Then adding in "earthy" colors to keep the outfits balanced. Think darker shades of- pinks, yellows/mustard, rusty oranges or blues! Then adding in pops of natural colors like browns/tans/greens/creams!
.
Balance
Adding in pops of bold colors and patterns is totally fine! Just keep things balanced and natural feeling by adding in organic simple/neutral colored solids!
.
Layers
Don't be afraid of adding cardigans, scarves, cute hats, little jackets, ect. to keep cozy during colder months! It's so cute and practical! Pieces like that can add lots of depth and visual interest to your images!
.
Simplicity
Overall, don't stress too much! Keep it simple. Easy to maintain outfits that you feel comfortable in are perfect! Outfits that feel simple, effortless, and down to earth are the best!
.
