Whether you're planning outfits for your entire family or just coordinating with your partner, this guide will help you look and feel your best in front of the camera. If you want timeless, classic photos where you are the focus, you've come to the right place!
1. Start with the Big Picture
Before choosing colors or styles, consider the final destination of your portraits:
- Where will you display them? Will they hang in your living room, above your dining table, or in a photo album?
- What’s the setting? Choose outfits that complement the scenery. If your session takes place in a location with bright greens and yellows, avoid bold reds to prevent an unintended holiday color scheme.
2. Choose a Color Palette
For a soft, timeless look, I recommend:
- Light, neutral tones: Cream, taupe, camel, light gray.
- Muted shades of pinks and blues.
- Avoid bold, neon, or overly bright colors, as they can be distracting and take focus away from you.
If you're unsure about color choices, a neutral palette is always a safe bet. Trust me—you’ll love the results!
For all you visual learners out there, enjoy the examples below! Feel free to use these colors or get inspiration to make your own.
3. Patterns: Less is More
Some patterns can enhance your look, while others can be distracting. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Avoid loud, overwhelming patterns, logos, or graphic designs.
- Stick to one pattern and build the rest of the outfits around it.
- Mixing patterns can work if done subtly—for example, pairing a soft floral print with a solid color outfit.
4. Coordinate, Don't Match
Gone are the days of white shirts and blue jeans for everyone! Instead:
- Break up colors and shades so each person’s outfit is unique but complementary.
- Think in terms of dominant colors (main outfit color) and accent colors (small pops of color in accessories).
- If you have multiple children, let them wear different styles. A dress for one, a skirt and boots for another—it keeps things visually interesting!
- Choose your color palette
- Pick mom’s outfit first (it’s often the hardest to decide on!)
- Coordinate the rest of the family around mom’s look
- Accessorize! Use accessories like scarves, jewelry, or pocket squares to tie everything together
5. Dress it Up
It might feel odd wearing heels on a dirt path or dressing up for an outdoor session, but trust me—elevated outfits always look incredible on camera. If you’re on the fence about dressing up, let’s chat! I’ll happily convince you that a little extra effort is totally worth it.
6. For the Girls: Say Yes to the Dress
Dresses and skirts are flattering on all body types and add movement to photos. Consider:
- Long, flowy dresses or skirts for elegant, timeless movement.
- Midi or cocktail-length dresses for a fun and flattering look.
- Layering options like textured tights, denim jackets, or sweaters.
7. Layering: The Secret Ingredient
Layers add depth and visual interest to photos.
- For men: A v-neck sweater over a collared shirt or a blazer.
- For women: Jackets, scarves, and textured elements.
- Keep layers fitted and intentional—bulky layers can overwhelm your shape.
8. Take a Test Photo
Before the session, lay out everyone’s outfits and snap a quick phone photo:
- Does everything look cohesive?
- Are the colors complementary?
- Need a second opinion? Send me a pic—I’d love to help!
9. Final Thoughts & Details
- Dress authentically: Your style should reflect you.
- Choose an outfit that makes you feel confident: If you’re comfortable, it will show in your photos.
- Have everyone try on their outfits before the session: You don’t want last-minute surprises!
- Need help? Text or call me—I’ve seen it all and am happy to help!
While I recommend a soft, neutral color palette because it photographs beautifully, your style is a representation of you. No matter what you wear, I’m here to capture the real, joyful, and authentic moments that make your session special.
If you love your outfit, I will too. Let’s make some magic! ✨
xoxo, Jen
