This time of year my calendar is booked with fall family sessions and the question I get asked most is what to wear for family sessions. When you have more than one outfit to coordinate it can feel a bit overwhelming so today I'm sharing some helpful tips to get your family ready for your fall family photo session.
Dress for Success: What to Wear for your Photo Session
Tip #1: Coordinate—but don’t be matchy/matchy
When picking outfits for your family, make sure your outfits complement one another’s. Choose a consistent color palette (which does not mean the same color). If someone is wearing a bold pattern, dress the rest of the group in more solids, but be sure each carries one or more colors from the “star” outfit for consistency.
Tip #2: Accessorize!
Scarves, hats, bows, headbands…it all adds a fun twist to an otherwise “standard” look. Accessories are also a great place to coordinate looks. For example, if Mom is wearing a pattern with navy, pink and gray, little brother can rock a pair a gray sneakers while Dad can choose a navy vest and big sis with a pink headband.
Tip #3: Try for Texture
Layers and textures can really add depth to your photos. Look for clothes and accessories with rich, simple detailing—embroidery, tweed, ribbons, etc—or layer pieces to add dimension and texture. Texture is especially important if you want a lot of black and white shots, which naturally need more visual depth and detail than color images. Also, because you’ll want to keep the pace going during your session, layering is a great way to make quick, convenient outfit changes—pull off the sweater, slip on the vest and you’ve got a whole new look!
Tip #4: Dress Kids for Comfort & Movement
Kids naturally run, skip, dance and jump around during photo sessions—they’re kids! To avoid unnecessary aggravation, let them be comfortable in the clothes and opt for apparel that accentuates their natural energy. Skirts, fedoras, scarves, and knit sweaters allow for natural movement, so when the kids start getting wild, their clothes will look even better.
Tip #5: Be Timeless
You’ll have these pictures for generations—don’t date yourself! Choose classic, timeless pieces, or even vintage apparel and accessories. Opt for the latest trends and you may feel otherwise about that amazing outfit in a few years (or even a few months) from now.
Bonus Tip: One of my favorite ways to find color scheme inspiration is on Pinterest. You can find a few of my favorite fall color schemes here, here & here. If you want something a little softer and lighter, this color scheme is perfect!
