The Style Guide

One of my most commonly asked questions is “What should we wear or not wear for photos?” so I’m bringing you some more tips today!

1) Do your clothes fit you well?

I would love to tell you that I’ll be on the lookout for bra-straps peaking out, but when I’m working with kids, an adult’s clothing is rarely my priority. I’ll be far more focused on getting your kids to smile! So please don’t assume clothing mishaps can be edited out. Instead, wear clothes you won’t have to worry about adjusting. Then you can relax and enjoy photos fully!

Quick tip: If you’re putting your young daughter in a dress, I highly recommend putting shorts under the dress.

2) Is everyone dressed 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.

3) Have you selected a color palette?

For a cohesive look in a group, I recommend choosing a general color palette (rather than identical outfits). I like to include at least 1 print (this usually ties the color palette together) and at least 1 texture (great for visual interest/depth). If you have multiple prints, consider picking ones that vary in size and style (ie- a larger plaid and a small floral).

Dresses photograph beautifully, and Amazon ships quickly…check out my list of Amazon dresses for mom if you need some ideas! I also love Altar’d State, Francesca’s and Baltic Born for dresses! Pants are great too, but I’m a sucker for dresses, personally.

4) Is anyone wearing bright 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.

5) Any other 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.

6. What about 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.

7. Anything else?

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…

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