What to Wear for Your Family Session
A family session is a special time set aside for families to capture memories together. It’s more than just taking pictures; it’s an opportunity to freeze moments in time to look back upon the love, and connection shared amongst family. These sessions are timeless keepsakes to look at the growth and changes in the family, from the smiles and laughter to the caring, candid natural moments.
Colours For Your Family Session
I suggest choosing neutrals, muted/soft pastels or earth tones.
These types of colours photograph very well and make everyone look their best. You can also never go wrong with neutrals like white, cream, gray, or black.
These colours are timeless and will never go out of style, plus they keep the focus where it belongs, on your family
If you prefer patterns over solid colours, small and understated patterns like small chequered or small stripes are also fine.
They read as a solid pattern from the camera’s perspective, and keep your clothing from becoming the focal point of the session.
Layers or textures like a chunky knitted sweater, tulle, denim, or a shirt with a collar can really add visual interest and depth to a portrait.
Some Things to Avoid
As much as I want the photos to reflect you as a family, here are some things I would suggest you avoid when choosing outfits for your family photos.
Logos: Avoid logos or graphics. Not only are they distracting, they tend to date your photos much faster than other clothing choices.
Patterns: Large patterns or florals. They tend to cause chaos, distract from faces, and create busy images.
Accessories: Avoid too many accessories. These can take focus of the people in the photo and date your images.
Neon/Bright Colours: Please no neon colours. Your clothes will reflect light back on to your skin, and neon colours create unflattering skin tones.
I also suggest not over accessorising with lots of jewellery or scarves.
What To Wear In Family Sessions for Parents
It is important that you feel like you, in the clothes they are wearing. How you feel in your clothes is just as important as what you’re actually wearing and it shows in the photos.
So whatever you pick, be sure you feel confident and comfortable in your clothes. It really does make a world of difference.
Keep it simple!
A nice pair of jeans or khakis with a fresh t-shirt or button up looks good for your partner. Casual and relaxed.
What to Wear for Family Sessions for Children
I have two children of my own, so I know exactly how hard it is to get everyone dressed and out the door! My suggestions for finding outfits for children;
Go with coordinating rather than exactly the same. Find outfits that have colours and styles in common.
Be sure to also make sure their outfits don’t bother them in any way, like too hot, or itchy, or too tight.
A happy child is more likely to stand for a photo and be relaxed than an uncomfortable one!
