What to Wear for your Lifestyle Family Photography Session

The number one question I get from clients during the pre-session consultation is about what to wear (or what not to wear) for family portrait sessions. This is actually a pretty big deal so I've compiled my top tips below to help you sort out your family's wardrobe ahead of your session. 

Whether you plan to use your portraits for holiday cards, celebratory announcements, social media profiles, or on display in your home, you want to make sure your clothing is on point. 

Keep it classic and comfortable. I always recommend choosing simple, classic clothes that will help give your images a timeless feel. Most importantly, you want everyone (especially the kiddos) to feel comfortable, playful, and happy. If you or your children are distracted by uncomfortable or restrictive clothing you'll have a hard time relaxing and feeling good in front of the camera. 

Choose coordinating colors, not matching. You can accomplish a collective look without having everyone wear the exact same outfit (i.e., everyone wearing a white shirt and jeans). Selecting mix and match hues that complement each other will result in a natural, seamless look in your portraits. Try picking two main colors that coordinate well and then adding softer tones to accent and complete your scheme. 

Look at your home decor. Do you like warm or cool tones? Neutral or bright colors? If you plan to hang these photos in your home then you'll want to make sure the colors of your clothes complement the color scheme in your home.

Keep your location and season in mind. Is your portrait session at a park with a lot of greenery and natural tones? Or at the beach near the water? Inside your home? Will there be bright-colored spring flowers or fall leaves? Or (my favorite) SNOW?  Select a color palette for your outfits that will accent the portrait setting and complement the background, not compete with it.

Limit patterns and skip the characters, large logos, and text. It's always fun to have an outfit in the mix that has all the colors in it. However, not everyone in the photo should wear patterns as it may distract the final image. Including articles of clothing with multiple patterns, large logos or characters is too distracting and takes away from the portraits. Our little ones love their Transformer t-shirts, GAP hoodies but it is usually best to skip them for your family photo session.

Sprinkle in fun textures and accessories. Consider adding a fun scarf or belt and a necklace or hat — these can help tie outfits together as well as add interest (and they can also make for fun props)!  Just be sure to limit it to a few items so you don't overdo it. 

Layout each family member’s outfit and accessories together ahead of time. This will allow you to view how the pieces will look next to one another. You'll also see what works (or doesn't work) and make sure that you’re not missing any essential clothing items.