What to wear to your family photoshoot.

So you've made the leap and booked a family photography session. Ah so exciting! You can't wait to show off your images on your Facebook page, hang them beautifully on your walls and your kids are going to have the cutest thank you cards for their birthdays this year. And then it hits...Oh God...what should we all wear?!

I've been a bit reluctant to blog about this.

I kind of like that people come to a shoot dressed as they normally would because who they are is then reflected in their images.

However over the last few weeks clients have been asking for a little guidance, even clients who always have their kids and themselves looking immaculate have asked for a bit of guidance.

So here is a quick guide of some do's and don’ts for a session. And the extra nice bit is that if you have booked a session with me and you are still unsure I will happily sort this out with you before the shoot to give you a hand.

Do - Co-ordinate

This is the main difference between a session looking good or a session looking amazing! You want your images to show that your family are connected and in a strange way this makes a massive difference.

When I say co-ordinate, I don’t mean matching. Images look better when there are a few complimentary colours running throughout the family. Have a flick through some magazine adverts or even a clothing catalogue for inspiration.

And clothes don’t have to be super expensive either. The plainer the better. We want the attention on your little's face, not what they are wearing. Plain clothes also don’t tend to date as quickly. Your images will need to look great on your wall for a very long time to come. Think simple and classic!

Pick a colour pallet and look for pieces that fit within it. You can add some stripes or spots on a top but try to team this up with a block colour cardigan.

Layers look great, as does a knit.

This gorgeous bunch got it spot on too. Navy and denim blue knits and khakis for a chilly day. The knits add a bit of texture which is great for a photograph. 

Do - Dress for the weather.

It’s all fine co-ordinating the main clothing items but if it’s blooming freezing and you haven’t thought about their outerwear then this causes problems. Children who are cold don’t tend to be terribly smiley or keen on having a giggle. They’re just cold.

I would always start with what jacket and shoes they’ll be wearing and co-ordinate around that. Jackets and shoes are the most expensive items of clothing so if we can avoid buying them then that’s great.

Do - Start with one member.

Let’s face it, the men are never terribly chuffed about the thought of a photography session. It can make them feel a touch awkward so let’s make it a bit easier on them. Start planning your outfit around them. What will they look good in and feel comfortable in? If they are at least happy with what they are wearing then the rest will hopefully not be too painful!

Do  - Think about where you will be hanging them.

Ok, this one might be a touch on the pernickety side but…have a wee think about where you will be hanging them. Think about the colours that are prominent in that room and possibly use this as one of the colours that you use when co-ordinating your family outfits. It’s the little things that make the difference.

This family nailed their holiday session by considering the colours in their home when they chose outfits for their session. The result is that their images tie in with their decor. Ah interior design...got to love it when you kill two birds.  

and now for the...

Dont’s

I’m going to clump these altogether because they’re fairly short and sweet.

No clothes with writing, logos or kids cartoons. It distracts from the main focus which should be your gorgeous children. Plain is good, Paw Patrol is bad.

No neon. This is generally a rule in life too.  Exceptions are only allowed for 80’s nights and roller discos. If in doubt keep it neutral! Or solid colours.

And that’s it.

I’m always happy to chat clothes so if you’re not sure then text, ring, send me photos of your wardrobe we’ll get you all sorted in no time. There may well be more to follow on this subject so stay tuned!

Text wardrobe photos to 3062817662!

Here are some great co ordinations