Family Session: What to Wear 2

Coordinating vs. Matching

There is an old fashioned idea floating around that everyone in the picture needs to have on matching clothing. This is not true! Coordinating is far better than matching. Choose colors that look nice together, but don’t fall into the trap that you all need to be wearing the exact same blue shirt. Your photos will be far more interesting with some variation! Add interest to your photos by incorporating plenty of color and/or patterns. Don’t be afraid of either of these! If you’re overwhelmed with where to start, or wonder “How much is too much?” you might start with a print that you love, and pull in some of the coordinating colors with other pieces.

I always recommend having at least three colors in your palette. Adding in a couple of patterns looks nice too! Add in a solid shirt for one person, maybe some stripes for another. Remember, the key is to coordinate, so the colors in your prints and patterns are your friend!

If your personality is suited to a more subtle look, neutrals photograph beautifully as well. You can easily keep your color scheme neutral and add in smaller amounts of color for variety.

If you’re having a hard time deciding on a color palette, let the colors of your home inspire you! Since your home is where your images will be displayed, think about the colors that will coordinate well with your home and style of décor. I also like to recommend that my clients consider the Pantone Color of the year as well! Because fashion designers utilize the Pantone Color of the year in their design choices for the coming seasons, making selections from these options will usually result in color choices that are fashionable and on trend. The Pantone website will provide you with an array of coordinating colors and hues!

Finish off your look with accessories and layers. This can really make your photos “YOU” and looks fantastic in photos! Consider adding a statement necklace or scarf to your outfit, and for your family, consider accessories such as a vest, belt, jacket, hat, suspenders, headband, etc. Accessories are the perfect way to give a finishing touch to your look, and they can really set your photos apart.

Things to Avoid

There are a few tones that are less flattering for photos that I usually recommend my clients avoid, specifically neon colors, and wearing all white. White tends to wash out most people’s skin tones and isn’t most flattering. This isn’t to say you can’t have any white on, but it might be best to not make it your principle color of choice for every person in your photo shoot. Neon colors will cast bright colors onto your skin in photos, and can make it difficult to capture your natural skin tones. While neon colors are a lot of fun, it’s best to save them for occasions outside of photo time.

Helping my clients get ready for their photo session is one of my greatest joys! I hope these tips give you some ideas and help you to feel a little more prepared. If you have any questions, or even any more tips or ideas, don’t hesitate to ask!

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