Booking the photographer feels like the main job but really, there is a lot more that can be done to ensure that the photos capture your family at their best and are photos you’ll look back on with pride and gratitude.
So what is the best to wear:
The main thing is to be comfortable. A family photoshoot should be a relaxed and happy event. Wearing clothes that make you feel comfortable will help you to ease into the shoot.
I would suggest a semi-casual look. I tell people that they can think about what they would wear to an afternoon at the theatre. Nothing too dressy, but something they take pride in wearing. Outfits that make them feel beautiful. I want to see them looking like the best versions of themselves.
In terms of what to avoid, the main thing I suggest people avoid wearing any clothing with large logos or motifs/characters. These graphics, particularly logos and well-known characters can really detract from the focal point – your lovely faces. People’s eyes will naturally be drawn to those in the first instance. But there is always an exception to every rule. For example, your whole family loves certain style:
I would select to choose few styles and at least one should be something more timeless and less distracting for a professional session.
About colours and fabrics:
I prefer to see people in outfits that don’t match but go together. Like those that have a similar colour palette.
When you don’t know what colours you want to choose for a photo shoot, choose one piece and build around it.
I like to have a mix of fabrics for texture. Lace is beautiful for little girls or as an accent for a woman.
Knit jumpers are something that photographs well. I also like to suggest layers so that there is some visual interest in the outfits. Putting a solid colour cardigan over a dress or a blazer with a t-shirt and jeans can add just that extra little touch of style that makes a portrait special.
While I would advise people to stay away from bright whites on a regular basis (as bright areas of white clothing draw the focus away from the subjects) I do think that everyone in white on the beach or in a white studio looks gorgeous. The hi-key effect is lovely.
Next, look to your skin tone. If you are about to pop on your favourite red winter knit, have a look in a mirror (in natural light if possible) and look for any colour reflections underneath your chin. Does the colour of your top give your skin an altered appearance? Does it make your normally rosy complexion more red? Does that grey top make you look washed out, or does that rusted colour give your skin a sallow appearance?
I also like spots, stripes and plaids together with block colours if they are subtle and of the same tones. I think just a touch of those extra elements on one or two of the family members makes the collection of clothes together look interesting and slightly spontaneous.
Scarves are great for adding colour and interest, as are statement necklaces or other pieces of jewellery. Hats and caps are fine, but don’t hide the eyes.
Shoes …. People usually forget about this part. Make sure your shoes are neat and go with your outfit. They don’t have to be top shelf, but ensure that they are clean and in good appearance.
If you wear foundation, ensure that the coverage is even and there are no lines around your neck. If you go for the spray tan, that’s absolutely fine, but just don’t overdo it or you could appear too orange or muddy looking.
If you are a hair-up person, make sure you choose a style suitable for the day – you don’t want to constantly be fighting the wind blowing stray hairs over your face.
To get some ideas and inspiration it is good to type “family look” or “family photography” on Pinterest.
If you wish to style your shoot a certain way, you should feel comfortable in doing so. These photos are going on your wall in the end! Your photographer should respect your ideas and styling.
Considering background
For instance, if you are having a garden shoot, surrounded by lots of leafy green foliage, muted greens, browns and oranges will only aid in camouflaging you. If it’s a dreary, overcast day, you might want to re-consider wearing whites and greys and going for a pop of colour or contrast instead.
Contrast is your friend. Make sure you set yourself apart from your background.
But also wearing pastels and blend a bit with a background can create beautiful images.
Plan in advance
It is always good to allow plenty of time to decide what you would like everyone to wear. So plan in advance in case if something doesn’t fit, to find the right shoes or something or if your child refuses to wear it. Also, make sure you have a backup plan.
Consider your home decor
Matching your clothing to your home decor? I know it may sound silly, but this is more about matching your personal style. As you will likely want your pictures to be on display for a very long time, consider if you are normally drawn to bold colors or neutral tones. This will allow your photographs to blend seamlessly with your home permanently.
Think timeless
Fashions and styles come and go. You want your family photos to be timeless, so it is best to aim for more of a classic look, not one that instantly dates you. Just as we can easily point to wedding photos from the 70’s and 80’s, noting the hairstyles, the frills and lace, your goal is to have this year’s photographs blend right in.
Prepare things for your kids
Please bring multiple outfits, snacks, drinks, props to keep them entertained and a favourite toy in case the little one needs some comfort. I hope to capture your kids’ personality, not just a cheesy smile so would be good for you to encourage them to be themselves and don’t be too strict with them. Kids can feel when you are stressing and can stop enjoying the photoshoot. Make sure you are calm and relaxed.
