Fall photo season is upon us and hands down the most frequent question I hear from clients is “What should we wear?”
I don’t consider myself a fashionista, but over the years I have learned what photographs well and what doesn’t. So, I’ve put together some DO’s and DON’Ts to help you plan your family’s wardrobe for your next photo session.
When planning outfits for your session, I recommend starting with one outfit you really love and building the other outfits around that one. I also highly recommend starting with mom’s outfit first! Once you have mom’s outfit figured out, it makes looking for coordinating outfits much easier.
WHAT TO WEAR
- Soft, deep, and/or neutral colors (earth tones are my personal favorite)
- Twirl dresses for girls
- Chino shorts/pants for boys
- Patterns that aren’t overwhelming
- Shoes that blend (think, brown, tan, or camel boat shoes)
- Wrap dress, maxi skirt, bell bottoms, high waist pants/skirts for women
- Accessorize to finish the entire look
Things to look for when selecting:
- Have 2-3 main colors that are cohesive and fill in with neutrals
- Have at least 1-2 solids for every print/pattern
- Movement is your friend – pick items that are flowy, light weight and move with you
- Textures add depth and visual interest – lace, crochet, velvet
- Think coordinating, NOT matching
- When in doubt NEUTRALS, NEUTRALS, NEUTRALS – simple, solid, and natural are timeless
PHOTO SHOOT NO-NO’S
- LOOSE FITTING DRESSES OR TOPS FOR WOMEN
- LARGE LOGOS, CHARACTER PRINTS, BIG WORDS
- BRIGHT AND/OR NEON COLORS
- JERSEY KNIT FABRIC FOR ADULTS
- ATHLETIC TENNIS SHOES
- FRILLY COSTUME DRESSES FOR GIRLS
- EVERYONE WEARING JEANS
- SHORT DRESSES FOR WOMEN
- NO MATCHY-MATCHY
LET ME EXPLAIN:
- Women may think that blouses or dresses without definition will help “hide” what you want hidden, but its actually the exact opposite. Women should wear something that gives shape to the body.
- Large logos, busy, bright prints and neon colors, Nike tennis shoes all stick out like sore thumbs.
- Short, tight dresses on women can hinder poses, movement and be a worried distraction.
FOR THE LADIES
It’s important to wear what you feel comfortable in, but it is also important to look and feel your best! If you get dolled up for a wedding, then you should do the same for your photos! Dresses are flattering on women of all shapes and sizes. Especially wrap or faux wrap dresses, so ROCK that dress, ladies!! If dresses are not your thing, maxi skirts or nice jeans with a fitted top is a good alternative.
FOR THE GENTLEMEN
Henleys are my favorite for boys and men! Button ups and polos can also work, just avoid stiff, heavy fabrics. Fitted khakis or colored chino pants/shorts look relaxed but polished. Always add some layers or details – beanies, suspenders, vests and light jackets/sweaters are great additions. And don’t forget the importance of footwear. Say NO to white athletic shoes!
But where to look for inspiration?
First, if you’re my client, make sure you check out Style & Select, an ingenious online styling tool that I’m pleased to offer ALL of my clients! Second, check out some of my favorite stores and websites for ideas
Women: Baltic Born, Joyfolie, Roolee, Bohme, Vici Collection, Madewell, Free People
Kids: Crewcuts, Zara, H&M, Rylee and Cru, Boden, Joyfolie (girls), GapKids, Old Navy
Dad: Gap, Old Navy, H&M, Banana Republic, Madewell
0 Comments