The Style Guide

One of my most commonly asked questions is “What should we wear or not wear for photos?” Here are my tips!

1) Start with Mom!

I know it can be tempting to jump right in and select kids’ clothing first, but I never want a mom’s outfit to be an afterthought. Kids looks great in everything. It’s us moms who tend to be self conscious and only prefer certain garments. So just like on an airplane when you’re told to get your mask on first before helping those around you…I want you to pick YOUR outfit first. THEN pick the outfits for everyone else.

2) Select a Color Palette

For a cohesive look in a group, I recommend choosing a general color palette rather than identical outfits. For example, perhaps you dress everyone in a color palette of blues and neutrals.

I like to include at least 1 print; this helps tie the color palette together. If you have multiple prints, I recommend selecting prints that vary in style and scale/size (ie- a larger plaid and a small floral). When mixing prints, I also recommend using prints that have a different base color.

If possible, consider mixing in a garment that has some texture (like waffle or knit). This adds in some visual interest and complexity without overhwhelming the color scheme.

3) Make Sure Clothes Fit Well

The clothes that give us confidence are the ones that fit us well. And no one wants to be worrying about whether their dress is long enough or their bra straps are showing. So do yourself a favor and make sure everything fits well without needing constant adjustments. Then you can relax and enjoy photos fully!

This applies to kids too! If you’re putting your young daughter in a dress, I highly recommend putting shorts under the dress. If you’re dressing your baby in overalls…make sure they’re the right size so they’re not swimming in them.

When you’re dressing young kids, consider what their outfits look like when you’re holding them. Here are some things to consider:

-Babies in vests (the vest will pop up and cover their face when the baby is being held)

-Babies/toddlers in ruffle sleeve dresses/shirts (the ruffles sometimes cover their faces when they’re being held at an angle)

-Girls in mini skirts/dresses (these pop up and look odd when the child is being carried)

-Babies/toddlers in overalls (these rarely fit well, and tend to pop up and need adjustment when the child is picked up)

4) Dress for the Weather

Shivering kids tend to be unhappy kids, and unhappy kids don’t photograph well. You can usually get a general weather forecast 10 days out, so even if the temperatures are unseasonably cold, try to layer up to avoid everyone looking cold! (And not all layers have to be visible - you can put 2 pairs of tights on your daughter or put a long sleeve shirt under your son’s sweater.) If you have an outdoor session in the morning, pay closer attention to the forecasted low than the forecasted high. And remember that mornings can be dewy, so shoes may get wet, depending on the location you’ve chosen.

5) Avoid Red

Bright red and super saturated pinks are known for casting a pinkish/reddish hue onto the nearest victim. Lifestyle photography is full of cuddly shots, so mom’s red sweater will make that precious toddler’s face look very…well, red. If your entire family shows up in red, I’ll never say a thing. But if you’re asking for tips…avoid red (at least the bright kind). Bright, saturated pink and most neons have a similar affect.

6) Additional Thoughts on Color

I tend to love lightly colored neutrals! Just keep in mind that certain hues can wash out certain skin tones and hair colors (beigey-creams and melon tones, for instance).

If you’ll be in a very green environment (ie - many parks in the middle of summer), consider wearing a color other than green.

If your photo session takes place in-home, and you’re worried about your home having low natural light, consider wearing lighter colors (like white) that reflect light rather than darker colors (like black) that will only make your photos moodier. If moody is your vibe, then don’t worry about this one.

7) Don’t Forget Footwear

Some men show up in dress pants with sneakers. If this is your vibe, then cool! But this is your reminder to consider everyone’s footwear, including the guys. And truly…I don’t care if you want to wear sneakers, go barefoot, or wear dressy footwear. Just give it some thought so it’s intentional.

8) Temporary Tattoos

Do your kids have temporary tattoos up and down their arms? If yes…do you WANT those in photos? If yes, then I’m totally fine with that! If not, try nail polish remover on a cotton ball…takes temporary tattoos off in an instant. I understand that nail polish remover isn’t a gentle skincare product, and you’re welcome to use whatever you’d like! But if you get desperate…

9) Text Your Photographer!

My clients are always welcome to send me pictures, if they want a second opinion on outfits!

Now, if you’d like a little inspiration, here’s a family that totally nailed it!