This is one of the most common questions I hear before a photo shoot.  I truly think I’m blessed with the most gorgeous clients every time, and I want you to be dressed dapper and photo-friendly, so I decided to write a small post about some of the tips I’ve gained along the way.  While I am not the devil in Prada, I do know a little about what will look good in your photographs now – and perhaps more importantly, in years to come.  After all, we don’t exactly display those acid-washed pleated jeans portraits all over our houses anymore, do we?

Love IT! Found this on Google by searching "80s family portrait" LOL

All kidding aside, my job is to capture you at your best. That being said, here are a few tips of what I feel look best on a family shoot:

• Clothes in the same color family. Warm colors, Cool Colors, Pastels, etc. Colors that complement each other look fantastic in a shoot.  I have a personal rule as an artist that I refuse to take pictures of a family that is exactly matching. It’s just wrong. Trust me. It’s for your sake, also.    The goal is coordinating. Please, no white or one-color schemes.  NO jeans and black turtlenecks. No khakis with white shirts. Please. I PROMISE you’ll be happy you didn’t. It’s cute in the moment, but not forever.
• Everyone should be in the same style, i.e. dressy, casual, beachwear, etc. It doesn’t work if Uncle Bob shows up in jeans and a t-shirt when everyone else is in a suit and tie.

Such a beautiful family!

• If everyone wants to be different, you can pull everyone together with the same accent color. Someone can wear red shoes, another a red hat, red bow, etc. CUTE!
• Solids and simple patterns are best. When it gets too busy or you put writing on the clothes, then the attention is taken away from the most important part of the photo – you!  No cartoon characters or logos – it won’t look good.
• White is almost never a great color as the primary choice for the wardrobe palette. Cream is okay, but all white…eh….nope.
• Don’t wear baggy clothing, and alternatively, don’t wear clothing that is too tight. Wear clothing that fits you well. Comfortable clothes that you can move around in are great!
• I LOVE TEXTURES! Corduroys, denim, cottons, knits, sweaters, leather boots, etc.
• It’s all about deciding what kind of look you are going for. Layers are great for visual interest – it adds depth and appeal to an image, so try a vest over a button-up shirt or wearing a jacket or sweater, tights or leggings with a dress or skirt, etc.   The simple look is also nice; a flowing dress or plain tee and jeans can look great next to a busy or grungy backdrop or location.

• The simple look is also best for babies, because their expressions are what really make the pictures gorgeous and interesting! They look best in a cute, simple outfit with minimal print so that their personalities show through most. Newborns look best in nothing at all, to allow for elaborate posing while they are sleeping!
• With kids, the most important rule is KEEP IT COMFORTABLE.    We want happy faces, not itchy or pinched ones!

• I love to show off the personality of your children. These are heirlooms and keepsakes that will last a lifetime, so don’t be afraid to bring his/her favorite stuffed animal or the blanket that he/she refuses to let go of. It’s an integral part of their life right now, and we must document it! If it’s dirty, try to sneak it away while they’re sleeping for a trip to visit Mr. Washing Machine before your session for the cutest cringe-free pictures.

• For everyone, be fashionable, but try to stick to classic styles. Remember the acid-washed jeans? The HUGE bangs? These photographs don’t live on the walls for long. Classic styles stay in homes from generation to generation. You definitely don’t have to be boring, but just keep this tidbit in mind when you’re picking out clothing, makeup and hairstyles for you and your family.
• Use accessories rather than the clothes to add flair.
• Boots, hats, jackets, jewelry, or shoes will add personality and style.

• Be colorful! Saturated colors complementing your skin tone look great!

I hope this has helped! As always, please feel free to reach out to me with any questions you may have, and I look forward to seeing you soon at your photo shoot! We are going to have so much fun!!!

Please remember – these are all just overall suggestions, and when it comes down to it, it’s about capturing WHO YOU ARE.  Wear what you want, as long as you are happy, comfortable and camera-ready!!