When it comes to family portraits, the outfits you choose can make a significant impact on the final results. I mean, would you show up to a business meeting in pajamas? Nah. At Lindsey Miller Portraits, we understand that your family portraits are more than just photographs; they are treasured memories and pieces of art that will be displayed in your home for years to come. To help you create stunning images that reflect your family’s unique style and personality, here are some tips on how to pick the perfect outfits for your portrait session.
1. Coordinate, Don’t Match
One of the most important aspects of selecting outfits for your family portrait is to coordinate rather than match. Gone are the days when everyone wore the same white shirt and jeans. Instead, choose a color palette with 3-4 complementary colors and have each family member wear outfits that fit within that scheme. This approach creates a harmonious look without being overly uniform. For example, if you choose a palette of navy, blush, and cream, one person might wear a blush dress, another navy pants with a cream top, and so on.
2. Consider Your Home Decor
Since your family portraits will likely be displayed in your home, it’s a good idea to consider the colors and style of your decor when choosing family photo outfits. Think about where the portraits will hang and choose colors that will complement the space. If your living room features neutral tones with pops of color, incorporate those shades into your wardrobe choices. This ensures that your portraits will blend seamlessly with your home’s aesthetic. Don't know your own style? Don't panic! Invite us to see your space, and we'll be sure to help you select the perfect outfits - and wall art frame - to compliment your portraits.
3. Start with One Outfit
Like they say, less is more! A helpful strategy is to start with one outfit you love and build around it. Typically, this could be mom’s dress or a favorite piece of clothing that reflects the style you want. Once you have this anchor piece, it’s easier to coordinate other outfits around it. Make sure this central outfit includes colors from your chosen palette to make coordinating simpler.
4. Pay Attention to Fit and Comfort
While it’s important to look stylish, comfort is key, especially for children. Ensure that everyone’s outfits fit well and allow for easy movement. Uncomfortable clothing can lead to unhappy faces in photos, and we want everyone to feel relaxed and confident for your family pictures. Avoid clothes that are too tight, scratchy fabrics, or anything that might cause discomfort during the session.
5. Add Layers and Accessories
Layers and accessories can add depth and interest to your photos. Think cardigans, jackets, scarves, and hats that can be added or removed to create different looks within the same session. Accessories like necklaces, belts, and hairpieces can also provide that finishing touch to your outfits. Just be careful not to overdo it; the goal is to enhance, not distract from the faces and connections in the portraits. Shoot for classy, avoid overly-flashy!
6. Stick to Classic Styles
Trends come and go, but classic styles endure. Choose timeless pieces that won’t look dated in a few years. Simple, well-made clothing in classic cuts will stand the test of time and keep your portraits looking fresh and elegant for years to come. Avoid overly trendy patterns or logos that might make your photos feel less timeless. Crocs, I'm talkin' to you.
7. Be Mindful of Patterns
Patterns can add visual interest, but they need to be chosen carefully. Too many busy patterns can be distracting, so it’s best to stick with subtle, complementary prints. If one person is wearing a bold pattern, balance it with solid colors for the other family members. Smaller patterns like subtle florals can work well without overwhelming the photo.
8. Plan Ahead
Give yourself plenty of time to plan and coordinate outfits. Last-minute decisions can lead to unnecessary stress, and rushed choices might not yield the best results. Start planning at least a few weeks before your session to ensure that you have time to shop for any necessary pieces and make any adjustments. I am happy to help you source your outfits! I promise, I will use any excuse I can to shop, even if it's not for me.
9. Test Outfits Together
Before the day of the session, lay out all the outfits together to see how they look as a group. This can help you visualize how the colors and styles will work together. Take a few quick photos of everyone in their outfits to see how they look on camera. This can provide valuable insight and allow you to make any needed tweaks. Bonus points if you share the photos with me so I can help make further recommendations!
10. Consult Your Photographer
At Lindsey Miller Portraits, we are here to help you every step of the way. Don’t hesitate to reach out for advice or a second opinion on your outfit choices. We want your family portrait session to be a fun, stress-free experience that results in beautiful, timeless images.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your family’s outfits will complement each other and create a cohesive, stylish look. Your family portraits are a reflection of your unique style and love for each other, and with a little planning and coordination, they will become cherished heirlooms for generations to come
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