tips on What to Wear (and not to wear) for Your family Photo Session

you've finally booked your photo session...now what?

While I'm sharing tips I've picked up from years as a photographer, at the end of the day, it's your photo session, so these tips are more like guidelines to consider rather than hard and fast rules.

I'm also sharing a few photos of different family outfits for you to draw inspiration from. There's not just one way to dress for a session. Lots of different looks work great! Instead of starting from scratch, find an example you love and mimic it.

first and foremost, wear something you're comfortable with

Especially if you have someone in your session who isn't thrilled about getting photos taken, you want to make sure you aren't adding to their discomfort. Being too hot or too cold can be distracting and lead to less cooperation or fewer happy expressions.

However, this doesn't mean that you can't wear heels because they're uncomfortable or that you can't branch out to a new style because you're not comfortable with it yet. It just depends on if you're comfortable with being a little uncomfortable and taking a little risk...and that you're aware of that going into the session.

now let's start with a few things to avoid

• Avoid clothing with logos or writing visible. This is a pretty standard recommendation. It detracts from the people and looks more like an advertisement. Unless, of course, it's a shirt that goes with the theme. Lots of people like to do "Big Sister" and "Little Brother" shirts or something similar.

• Avoid distracting accessories. This is more something to take into consideration than to outright avoid. Think "less is more" unless the jewelry or item is a large part of the session, like an engagement ring or sentimental necklace you want to feature. Remember that each extra item you add is something extra that could be out of place in the photo. It's also something extra to carry as we move around during the shoot. If you're ok with that, by all means, bring those accessories! We can always do a few pictures with and a few without.

• Avoid clothing that doesn't stay in place and needs constant readjusting. There can be a lot of movement in my prompts/posing. That doesn't mean you shouldn't wear a dress, but make sure you can be a active in it. Another example would be hats, which I love! But sometimes they can get in the way, so we usually don't use them the whole session.

How to choose your outfits

While it's fine to purchase new outfits, you can often find something in your existing wardrobe.

1. Start with what you have and consider the season. Even if you expect to have to buy something for your photoshoot, it still helps to look at what you have first and build on that, especially if you have a large family.
2. Choose an outfit for the person who has the fewest good options first. If a client asks me what to wear, I usually recommend starting with their own outfit since the person reaching out to me is usually the one who cares more or will at least be putting more effort into the planning. I want them to feel confident in what they end up wearing and not feel like they made everyone else look good but just settled for their own outfit. But if there's someone in the family who is harder to shop for, you could start with their existing wardrobe since it will be easier to buy others something to match them.
3. Keep a list of items you're missing as you go. Record anything you still need for each person's outfit. This will be so helpful later so you don't forget anything down to the socks and shoes!
4. Select multiple colors that coordinate. Once you have an outfit for one person, you can use that as a base to coordinate everyone else. Mix and match colors from that outfit and colors that look good with the colors in your base outfit. If you need help, search for bolds or neutrals in photo session outfits.
5. Throw in some textures or patterns, too. Flannel, florals, stripes, knitted sweaters...these all add interest to the photo. As long as you don't go overboard, they look more natural since families don't usually wear the exact same outfit on a day-to-day basis.
6. Repeat. Now that you've done this once, you probably came across multiple options for most people. See if you can put together a couple of sets of outfits that look great together. This extra effort won't be wasted since you'll be able to wear it to your next event even if you don't use it for this session.
7. Ask for a second opinion. Now that you've done all the work, your spouse might be able to share some insight on which set of outfits they prefer. Or you can send the options to your photographer, sister, or even social media. If there's one you clearly like more, just go with that, but at least you have a backup if you need one!
8. Have each person try on their outfit. This helps avoid last-minute surprises. Children outgrow outfits so quickly. Having them try the clothes on will also reveal any holes or stains you may not notice otherwise.
9. Purchase any finishing touches. Now if you're feeling like something is still missing from the outfits, you can head to the store knowing what you're looking for. This will make things much faster and easier and probably less expensive...or at least more worth the expense because you know it will actually be used.