Are you having anxiety over choosing what to wear for your photo session? In fact, this is a frequent reason many people put OFF getting family photos.

This is the number one question I’m asked: What do I wear for my Photos?!?

Rest easy, friend cause I’ve got you covered! I’ve put together some guidelines to help prepare you for your next photo session. Remember download my TOP TIPS when preparing to be on camera or in front of an audience.

psst: check out this fun video to see how I prepared for my latest headshots!

Don’t overthink what to wear & bring several outfit options.

Select what to wear based on clothes YOU feel comfortable, confident and beautiful wearing. But here are a few things worth considering.

• Darker colors have a slimming effect vs. a light color palette provides a fresh, lighter look good for Spring/Summer.
• AVOID Prints and patterns UNLESS… used in small doses or as a splash of color.
• Try to avoid sleeveless clothing unless you are laying with a cardigan or jacket.
• NO short pants. (Think hairy MAN legs in your photos. Ya? No!)
• Accessories can add flair but don’t over do it!
• If you wear glasses, make sure they are clean.
• Get a haircut at least ONE week prior to photos.

Dress in layers! Leggings + a camisole make a good bottom layer-

You don’t want to be tugging at your pants or re-adjusting your top because it doesn’t fit quite right! Therefore it is important to wear something that fits you well. Choose something that flatters YOUR figure.

Should I wear heels for photos?

Do you have an awesome pair of shoes you never get to wear? Well this is the perfect opportunity to show them off; however you’ll wear comfortable shoes to your shoot. A cute pair of flats should always be in your bag!

When choosing colors for your family, use the rule of three’s

Rule of threes  Choose 2 colors that work well together + 1 splash of color!

Personally… I love applying this rule to creamy whites & ivory’s with a splash of color. Once you have your 3 colors, the rest is easy! Vary your use of color by opting for a different fabrics with varying textures. Look at how each texture absorbs or reflects light. Pair with accessories that add bits of color and personality.

Stick within a tonal range:

• Pastels (pinks and blues)
• Primary colors (red and blue)
• Earth tones (navy, tan, burgundy, or green)

You can safely add cream, whites and ivory to any color combination.

Solid colors or small simple prints work best.

Typically, only children should wear small prints while the adults stick to solid colors. If you want to incorporate plaids, bright colors and patterns- just tone it down by layering with a neutral jacket or sweater.

Portraits of Mom and Baby

Soft colors and pastels work well for babies & toddler. Although truthfully, chubby cheeks, budda bellies, stubby fat fingers & toes… these are some of my favorite things that define babies. Simple is better.

I prefer to photograph babies and children barefoot because I like tiny toes!

Choosing Clothing for CHILDREN

Avoid large animal characters or logos! Your clothes shouldn’t distract from the subject matter- your beautiful children.

Preparing for a LARGE Family Photo

Large family reunion type groups need special consideration. If you are the lucky person organizing for this, determine if your family is more formal or casual.

It is important all family members know the “theme” of the photo. If one family comes in suits and dresses and another comes in jeans and T-shirts, it might look a bit odd. Women will often be seated, so be certain skirts cover knees and are comfortably loose.

Again, keep things simple!

1. Give them three colors
2. Encourage variety in fabrics
3. Suggest jeans or khaki’s
4. NO shorts & NO sleeveless

Tips to Remember:

Ladies remember to lipstick and powder.

Men don’t forget to bring a belt.

If you need a haircut, have it done at least a week before so that it has time to look natural

Don’t be afraid to mix it up to make your portraits unique- For instance, if you have a fun dress for your little girl (as seen below), select colors within the outfit to dress the rest of the family.

For more ideas, visit our Pinterest Page with things to get you inspired!