Here are 10 tips to help you with making decisions of what to wear for your family portraits! I know this can be a stressful thing, so my hope is that these tips can help make it a little easier.
1. Coordinate... don’t get too matchy matchy! Pick two or three coordinating colors and weave them into each outfit. A good way to get started may be to choose one outfit and choose coordinating colors from that. Keep in mind that the brighter the color, the more sparing you want to use it across the whole family. For ideas of great color combinations, you can check out my Pinterest board where I have collected some ideas: https://www.pinterest.com/kim_creative/ideas-for-what-to-wear/
2. Ladies, flatter your figure and make sure you (and everyone else too) are comfortable! Sit, stand, and pose in front of the mirror to evaluate your outfit and make sure you are comfortable. Work with your body and bring attention to what you love! Light colors draw attention and dark colors minimize. So if you want to minimize a certain body part such as your hips, then consider a darker color for your pants or skirt. Fitted, not tight, clothes are best to flatter your shape. Excess fabric can make you look bigger, so consider a belt under your bust if a top is loose. For children try not to get clothes that are too big because even if they look good when positioned just right, your child will move and it’s impossible to always be fixing extra fabric on little ones.
3. Aim for classic but current with your clothing choices. Wear timeless pieces and update with current accessories. You don't have to go buy all new clothes, you can go shopping in your own closet!
4. Add texture to increase visual interest – add a scarf, denim jacket over a lace top, fur vest, etc. Especially when it's cold, it will be a good idea to layer!
5. Accessorize thoughtfully. Pick a few gorgeous accessories that you love rather than piling them all on. If accessories have sentimental value, that’s even better! Make sure to take off watches or hair ties prior to session, unless it is a sentimental piece!
6. Groom the guys too! Make sure shirt and pants are clean and unwrinkled. Shoes should be shined and socks should match the pants.
7. Consider dressing kids individually, even if they are twins. Celebrate each personality in your family.
8. Wear your best shoes...or go barefoot! If barefoot, make sure feet are well-groomed. If you want to wear your best shoes consider that heels improve posture, creating a more flattering silhouette and can make you feel more confident. However, if the session is outdoors, consider bringing a pair of shoes to walk in and a pair for photos if you opt for heels. Consider getting a pair of loafers, ballet flats, or single-colored shoes for children rather than their favorite character shoes.
9. Makeup...don’t be afraid of color, but also be careful not to go too overboard! You should give eyes, cheeks, and lips more definition with rich colors such as berries, reds, corals, plums and pinks for lips and cheeks. For eyes, be careful not to go too dark and smoky with your eyes, but do use deep jewel tones as well as grey or black. Use powder to avoid shine!
10. Keep Hair Natural. Mom might consider a professional blowout, but keep it similar to natural style. For kids, choose a style that will last through the session. Maybe a headband or clip if hair is always in your daughter’s eyes. Little boy’s hair should be kept tidy but not so slick that he is unrecognizable. Men should be clean shaven or trimmed if they have facial hair. Consider hair accessories just like jewelry or other accessories, keep from overwhelming the image with too many bold accessories.
It's important to remember too...I give all these tips as a guide, not to add more stress! I am always happy to help give guidance with wardrobe, so feel free to reach out prior to our session! Even if your perfect outfits don't come together as planned, the most important part is your family. So no matter what you are wearing, we will capture beautiful memories of your family!
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