What you choose to wear is a very important part of your session. The right outfit can make the difference between good photos and amazing photos. There are a few things to keep in mind when choosing your wardrobe.
If you haven’t already headed over to the ‘What to Wear Inspiration board’ you can do that here.
DO: Match their personality! Try cheerful, fun prints with polka dots, stripes, camo – whatever showcases who they really are. Add some layers and texture with a tutu, pettiskirt, tie or knit hat. Bring along their favorite stuffed animal or something that’s important to them.
DO NOT: Most older kids aren’t comfortable in formal dress and occasionally it can show in their pictures. So, if you have your heart set on a suit and tie or an elaborate party dress, make sure to bring a second outfit that is more casual and comfortable.
DO: Wear coordinating outfits. You want the clothes to work together as if they are all from the same collection at your favorite store. For instance, if you have a cute dress for your little girl that has blue, brown, cream and orange accents, put Mom in a blue dress with a cute orange necklace, your son in a cream polo with jeans, and Dad in a brown polo with khakis. If everyone in the family coordinates, then every combination of people (the entire family, pairings, and individual shots) will photograph well.
DO NOT: Have everyone wearing the exact same outfit. If I see everyone wearing denim button down shirts and khaki pants, I might drop my camera. On purpose. (of course I can’t stop you if you really want that black top and jeans picture) Although that being said, if you want to wear the same colors, that’s perfectly fine. White is still classic, just put them in different white outfits/dresses.
DO: Choose colors that always pair well together. Some examples are earth tones (tans, browns, blues, sage, olive, burnt orange, mustard yellow, etc.) and jewel tones (amethyst purple, emerald green, sapphire blue, ruby red). Sometimes its fun to use an accent color (everyone in black, white, and grey with red as your accent). You can incorporate white into every combination. Denim jeans always work.
DO NOT: Wear neon colors. 1987 is over. And really please try not to have words on your shirts. Depending on how I crop, we may see a gorgeous face with a floating Q on their chest (instead of whatever word the shirt actually said).
DO: Remember that shoes and accessories are important. I love bare feet in photos but sometimes shoes are necessary. Please put as much thought into your shoes as you do your wardrobe – they make a huge difference.
DO NOT: Put your children in clothes with characters on them. I promise in 10 years you will regret that Dora shirt, even if your daughter loves it.
DO: Bring an extra outfit and accessories if you’d like.
DO NOT: Bring an entire wardrobe.
DO: Accessorize. Headbands, scarves, jewelry, jackets, striped or patterned stockings/tights and hats can create great style.
DO NOT: Over-Pattern. Gingham with plaid and stripes and polka-dots does not work. Even if they’re the same color scheme.
DO: Sundresses, tutus, great dresses are perfect! Especially for little girls, we want her to be comfortable, to twirl, and feel like a princess. She’ll smile a lot more if she does!
And for more inspiration, check this out!