7 tips on what to wear for your in home photo session

You are super pumped about your upcoming photo session and can’t wait to update your photos on the wall.  I mean… the last family portrait you have hanging up doesn’t even include your youngest.  But wait!  You need to plan what everyone will wear!  If you are anything like me, this is the one part of the photo session process that can cause stress.  But don’t worry, a little advance planning can help you from wanting to pull your hair out.

1.  Moms, pick your outfit first!  As moms, we usually put our needs last.  When deciding what you want to wear in photos, it is so helpful to choose your outfit first.  This will ensure you love what you are wearing and feel fabulous instead of choosing something because the color matches what everyone else is wearing.  Look in your closet for pieces you already love and that flatter your body.  You can always add new layering pieces or accessories to make it more fun.

2. Choose a color palette.  The colors you will be wearing may be the hardest decision to nail down when it comes to wardrobe.  Do you like bold colors or is your style more soft?  This is important to keep in mind both the decor of your home and the colors the room where your images will be displayed.  I suggest picking three to four colors that complement each other.  Some of my favorite color combinations are different shades of blue and gray and burgundy, cream and navy.

 

3.  Include Textures. A cozy, knit sweater or a sweet eyelet top adds beautiful visual interest to images.  If it is fun to touch, it probably will photograph beautifully.  Don’t be afraid to mix patterns with neutrals in the color palette you selected.  The results will be fun!

4.  Don’t forget the details.  Sometimes while planning our clothing, we can forget about the little things that may stand out in a photo.  Nails should always be clean and polished, unless we are digging in the dirt!

5.  Treat yourself.  Getting everyone ready in the hours leading up to your session can be hectic.  Keeping a small child clean is a task within itself!  Time can get away from you and soon you may be rushing to make yourself camera ready.  If possible, have your hair, makeup and/or nails professionally done the day of your session.  Having someone else take care of you will give some time to relax and just focus on the children.  Plus, if you aren’t the best at doing those things yourself if will give you more confidence in front of the camera.  This is the one thing I try to always do before a session!

6.  Keep it causal.  We all want to look our best in photos but when we choose something we aren’t comfortable wearing, that apprehension can be seen on your face.  Make sure what you pick out is something you would naturally have in your closet.  You want to look at your photos and see you! Also, since your home will be the setting of your images, there is no need to get super fancy. Causal clothes photograph best in home.

7. Let the kids be themselves too! If your child is a little fashionista, be sure to give them a say in what they will be wearing. Kid style is fun to watch and you will enjoy looking back on their mismatched tops, pants and choice of accessories years from now.

With these 7 tips, you will be able to pick the perfect outfits for your family’s photo session.