What to wear for a photo session
What to wear for your family photo session
You booked a family photo session or are considering doing so, and now you’re wondering: “what should we wear?” Here is a little guide to help you choose the perfect outfits for everyone.
It’s best to come as you normally are. Wear what makes you feel comfortable and what you’d like to see in your photographs. You’ll look great no matter what! Be YOURSELF. This is important because when you look back at your photos in 10 years, you need to see yourself. You don’t want to think, “Why were we dressed like that?”.
Now that we’ve established that, I can offer a few tips and guildelines only if you wish to follow them:
1.
Prioritize harmony
Coordinate your outfits
But don’t match! Avoid choosing identical outfits, like everyone in jeans and a white t-shirt. It will be more natural to coordinate by picking a shade in various tones, or choose complimentary colors.
I usually recommend against matching outfits for the whole family for two reasons: First, it’s not very natural. If you don’t wear matching clothes in your everyday life, it doesn’t really make sense to do it on the day of your session. Secondly, it will be very obvious in the photos, kind of like bridesmaids, you know what I mean?
So if that’s not your intention and you want your images to reflect your unique personalities and family life, choose different outfits for everyone.
2.
Neutral tones
So that color isn’t overwhelming
Choose neutral tones when deciding what to wear for your photo session. Too many bold colors can take over the image!
If you love bold and bright colors, then embrace them, but try to keep them for small accessories, like a belt, jewelry, a scarf…
But don’t worry: this is merely a suggestion. Your outfits should reflect who you are, your personality, and the things you like in that particular season of your life.
What matters most is that you look like yourself in family photos and stay authentic. You certainly don’t want to dress in beige from head to toe if that’s just not you.
3.
Subtle patterns
Branding, messages and patterns
Try to avoid logos and messages on t-shirts, as they tend to distract from the overall image because they are very noticeable. If there’s a word, brand name or message on a piece of clothing, the eye will be drawn to it, and our brain will want to read it. That’s why we try to avoid these for a photoshoot.
Likewise, oversized patterns such as very large stripes or flowers can become overwhelming. If possible, try to avoid clothing with designs from franchises. However, don’t worry if your child insists on wearing their Disney shirt: if it’s their all time favorite, it’s all good!
Again, being yourself is key. If your teenager only owns t-shirts with messages on them, what matters most is that they’re comfortable. No pressure!
4.
Comfort is key
You should feel at ease
Prioritize comfort: avoid anything that’s too tight or way too big. You don’t want to be constantly adjusting pants that are too snug or a sweater that’s oversized during the photo session. Don’t overlook the shoes: wear ones that won’t hurt your feet.
Also, don’t pick a style that is the complete opposite of what you usualy like to wear either. Yes, a long, flowing dress looks lovely in photos, but if it’s not your style, you’ll feel awkward. You do you!
It’s preferable to wear something you feel cozy in. If you’re second-guessing your outfit just before you head out, it’s likely you have made the wrong choice: if you feel uncomfortable or awkward, quickly change into an outfit that feels right. We want you relaxed and not self-conscious!
Ideally, you should get your outfits ready for family photos the day before, try them on, iron out wrinkles (or don’t, I don’t mind them!)… This way, on the day itself, you can relax and enjoy.
5.
Bonus tips
If you usually wear makeup, feel free to go a little heavier for your shoot. Photography tends to wash it out.
Try to avoid having objects in your pants pockets! A smartphone or a set of keys can be very noticeable in photos. Dads, I’m looking at you!
For an outdoor session, you can keep all your belongings in a backpack, which you can set outside the frame for the pictures. Handy!
You might also like to read about outdoor sessions, indoor sessions or tips to get your child ready. Learn more about family photo sessions right here.