Fall portrait season is busy at Click! “What do I wear?” is hands-down the biggest question we get. It can feel overwhelming when you’re dressing an entire family! Never fear, I’ve collected some tips to help you prepare. With these tips you’ll be dressing like a portrait session pro in no time!
#1 Get the ball rolling. Pick one outfit you love and plan around it
Sometimes this ends up being mom’s outfit, and sometimes it’s one of the kiddos. It helps to have a starting point.
#2 Coordinate, but don’t match. I repeat, DO NOT MATCH!
There is nothing cheesier than a family portrait where everyone is wearing matching shirts and pants. You know what I’m talking about. Start by choosing a color palette – pick a couple of colors as a running theme. Throw in a couple of neutrals and maybe a pop of accent color and you’re set! Design Seeds is an awesome web site for color palette inspiration. Also check out our Pinterest board for ideas!
#3 Stay away from these:
Fluorescent colors, graphics and logos. ‘Nuff said.
#4 Layers, Textures and Accessories make your outfits interesting
Adding dimension with textured elements and fabrics (linen, denim, chunky sweaters) adds interest to your portraits. Layers also add dimension and depth. Layer a dress with a cute belt and pendant necklace. Cardigans, scarves, hats, blazers, etc. also make good layering elements. If these things aren’t “you”, forget them, but if they are, they can work really well.
Accessories are another way to add some depth to your outfits. Statement necklaces and bracelets for mom, a hat or bow for kiddos… go with what fits your personality. Just be sure not to overdo it and be authentic!
#5 Wear what you feel good in
I get it – you want to look your best in your photographs and probably want to dress up a little more than in everyday life. But wear what you feel good in! If you’re not comfortable in what you’re wearing, it will show. The same goes for kiddos!
#6 Dress for the situation and location
Your favorite cocktail dress and heels are not going to look right in a grassy field. Also, keep in mind the backgrounds. If we are shooting in that grassy field, you probably don’t want to wear a lot of green. If we’re shooting in your home and you have a lot of bright colored furniture, you’ll want to dress a little more neutral. Vice versa if your home decor is very muted.
#7 Don’t forget your shoes!
Barefoot at this time of the year is chilly! haha. All joking aside, shoes are an important part of your outfit. Make sure they are clean and go with what you’re wearing. (i.e. no sneakers with dress pants…)
#8 Dress appropriately for the weather
If we’re shooting in November, a sleeveless dress is not a good option. If it’s a particularly chilly day, be sure to have some sweater options or cute jackets/coats. If you’re cold, it will show in your photographs.
#9 Think timeless. Be authentic!
I want to capture your family being real. Makeup and clothing should match who you are.
#10 Lay it all out
Laying everything out on a bed or the floor can be a huge help. Please feel free to send me a snap of what you’ve got. I am MORE than happy to help you by giving my thoughts. We can tweak if necessary BEFORE the big day!
Whew! That was a lot of information, but I hope this helps you prepare for an amazing portrait session. Please comment below if you have any questions, or feel free to contact us directly!
