The hardest part of family portraits isn’t taking the photos – that part’s fun! It’s figuring out what to wear for family pictures. But don’t worry, that part can be fun, too. Just follow a few simple guidelines and tips (or check out my Client Closet), and your whole crew will be looking like your favorite Pinterest board! And, as a Woodland’s family photographer, I’m always happy to answer any questions and offer ideas to get you going.
8 Ways to Nail Your Look for Family Pictures
Wondering what to wear for family pictures? Try these tips!
1. Choose Mom’s Outfit First
As moms, we often take care of everyone else before ourselves. However, when it comes to family portraits, it’s Mom’s turn to go first! I recommend starting with the leading lady’s outfit since it’s typically easier to find matching kids’ and men’s clothing. I think flowy dresses look stunning and flattering on almost every body shape, and floral prints add a lovely touch, too. Ultimately, choose something that makes you feel confident and beautiful – because you are!
Next, choose coordinating kids’ outfits. Pull in complementary colors or a similar pattern as an accent. Choose Dad’s outfit last since his is usually the easiest to put together. For Dad, choose a different color than Mom’s outfit so you don’t look blended together while standing next to each other in photos. For instance, if Mom is wearing a burgundy dress, he might opt for gray, cream, or a patterned button-down.
2. Consider the Location
Choose your outfits based on the location. You don’t want to blend into the background. For example, if you’re taking photos in the forest, you’ll probably want to stay away from earth tones and dark colors – no navy, black, green, brown, etc. Instead, select colors that will pop more against the pines, such as mustard yellow, burgundy, light blue, cream, blush, pink, and other pastels (keep the season in mind as well).
3. Add a Pattern or Texture
Contrary to popular belief, you aren’t stuck with solids for portraits. Without going overboard, an accent pattern, floral print, or fun texture (or sparkle!) can add definition to your photos. Matching solids (especially dark solids) will make everyone appear lumped together. So, use your outfits to add extra definition to your photos.
4. Think about How You’ll Use Your Photos
Keep in mind where you will display your photos, too. Maybe you’re taking pictures during the winter, but you want to hang a portrait in your dining room. As cute as the outfits might be, Christmas colors or plaid may not be your best bet for year-round wall art. Choose attire that complements your home décor. On the other hand, if you only plan on using them for themed holiday cards, by all means, go for the adorable buffalo plaid shirts and fuzzy vests. Or dress up for formal holiday photos like this crew — it’s perfect to display front and center on a Christmas card!
5. Coordinate, Don’t Match
Choose colors that are in the same family or complementary/coordinating colors. Thankfully, we’re no longer in the ’90s, when the whole family wore jeans and white button-downs for photos. Go ahead and display some personality and flavor through your outfits. I love this mom’s turquoise jewelry with her purple dress while her sweet-cheeked baby rocks a big bow and floral romper.
6. Pull the Look Together with Accessories
Accessories can help to complete the look and tie everything together. Blazers, suspenders for boys, bows and headbands for girls, scarves, vests, chunky jewelry, and hats are great options.
7. Match the Style
Pick outfits that feature the same style. For example, if Mom is wearing a beautiful gown from my Client Closet, Dad should not be dressed for a hike. A t-shirt, jeans, and tennis shoes won’t cut it. For formal photos,everyone needs to look formal, or your photos will look disjointed. Typically, most families land somewhere between business casual and semi-formal. Although some summer or winter-themed sessions sometimes call for their own seasonal styles.
8. Ask Kelley!
I also have an ever-growing client closet for you to utilize if you can’t seem to find the right piece or want to look glamorous without buying a new dress. It also helps kiddos get excited about the session when they can pick out their own Dazzling Diva princess dress or a handsome vest. My closet includes:
- Designer couture dresses for girls 9 months to 12 years old.
- Rompers for girls 3 months to 3T.
- Pants, shirts, vests, shorts for boys newborn to 8 years old.
- Maternity and non-maternity designer dresses for women in a variety of colors and styles.
- Bows, headbands, bow ties.
- And more!
Let me know if you’re interested in selecting outfits from my closet, and I can show you what’s available – I’m constantly adding to it. I’m also happy to offer outfit guidance specific to your photo location. Connect with me here to find out what to wear for family pictures.
Book Your Woodlands Family Session with Kelley
Summer is a great time to schedule family photos. Take advantage of the off-season, which offers more location and time availability. Dazzling Diva Photography still has a few spots left for Summer 2021. We serve families throughout the Greater Houston area, including Huntsville, Conroe, The Woodlands, Tomball, Spring, and Houston! Get in touch today to reserve your spot.
