STYLE GUIDE
I'm so glad you chose me as your family photographer!! By taking this first step, you have invested in your family legacy by creating memories that will be cherished for generations to come.
This guide will address everything you need to know to make this family session a low-stress and enjoyable experience for you and your whole family. Because making memories shouldn't produce frown-lines!
We hear it all the time: "What should I wear?" Don't worry, you're not alone! That's why we've put together this easy Photography Session Style Guide. It's packed with tips on colors, patterns, and fabrics that make you look amazing in photos. But here's the real deal – wear what makes you feel comfortable and beautiful. We're here to lend a helping hand, our main goal is for you to shine with confidence and feel absolutely special during your photography session!
Neutral Colors
All year long
They're the classics that never go out of style. Neutral clothing can be airy and fresh. It can bring a beautifully simple touch. Think about this colors mixed with crisp white pants, breezy dresses and beige linen pants.
Pastels
Spring
I wanted it to feel like Easter egg colors, with a light khaki and light chambray as neutrals to ground those fun pastels. Mom can always wear that beautiful flower dress and build the rest of the outfits around hers.
Bold
Summer
For those looking for photos with a bit more pop, These bolder colors simply scream summer fun, sunshine, and smiles.
Warm and cozy
Fall
It's that wonderful season when you can snuggle up with your loved one or gather the whole family, a time for bundling up in layers and dusting off those long-awaited boots from the closet.
Cold Holidays
Winter
Hats, scarves, mittens, boots, boot socks, faux fur wraps - you name it, it can be incorporated into your images, AND add warm during your session!
Do's and Dont's
Solid shoes: YES Multicolor: NO
when we do sessions off th sand, solid color shoes is a yes, no cartoon tennis shoes on kids if possible.
Iron or Steam
I always suggest trying on your outfits before our session to ensure they fit properly. Additionally, please steam or iron any items that need it, as wrinkles in clothing can be very distracting in the pictures.
Need more help?
If you need wardrobe consultation or further assistance, please don't hesitate to let me know. I'm always here to help.
Dresses and long skirts
There is just something about a long flowy dress that photographs so beautifully, the wind the movement the flow, just give it a try!
Wear sleeves
Or quarter-sleeves if weather permits. In my experience, the women I photograph are most insecure about the way their arms appear. Covering your arms may take the focus away from them and flatter their shape at the same time.
Blowout = YEHII
Ponytail = NAHH
Wear your hair how you like it, but stay away from ponytails. The looser and more flexible the style, the better, a Bounce Blowout is always a win!
Don't wear neon colors or busy prints
I’m not saying that I don’t love a little pop of color, because I certainly do. However, muted colors and earth tones look better on camera and are more flattering for skin tones. Of course we don’t want the attention drawn to some bright piece of clothing.
Don't wear baseball hats or floppy hats that cover your eyes!
I understand if that is your style, but choose an alternate that allows the light to fall on your face. And bring the baseball hat for a few shots at the end.
DON’T have your cellphone or keys in your pockets!
Consider leaving it in the car. It will show through your pants and you’ll have to remove it each time you sit down. Leave your key filled keychain in the car for the same reason. I’ll be happy to throw them in my bag during our shoot.
Don't forget diaper covers
If your daughter is wearing a skirt or dress make sure to cover up the diaper or underwear. Remember we’ll be playing, swinging and tickling. Little girls probably don’t care, but you most likely will.
Don't wear tinny short or dresses
Keep in mind when we transition to sitting shots, choose something flowy so that you can adjust it around your legs when you sit.
Avoid large patterns and big logos
Smaller patterns are great and can really pull a family outfit together. Layers, texture and neutrals are a much more pleasing to the eye and they create a warmer image.
Don't wear uncomfortable shoes
Many locations are in fields or the beach where the ground is not level. I want you to have the freedom to run and play with your children.
Go for something cute and comfortable.
Don't wear cloth that fits poorly
Moms- don’t wear shirts that don’t fit right in the chest. If they are too small it will cause gaping between buttons. If a top is too loose, or has too large of a neckline it will expose the bra strap. Don’t wear a shirt or dress with a low neckline. Remember the kids will be cuddling and playing with you.
Dads- don’t wear shirts that are too short for your torso. Dads should expect to be playing and swinging the kids . If your shirt lifts way above your belly when you raise your arms, it’s probably not the look you are going for.
Don't wear clothing that is worn out, old or wrinkled.
You want to look polished in your images. Faded colors, stretched out tops or sweaters with pilling don't photograph well.
If you've already looked through your closet and still can't find anything that fits the bill, then look on the bright side; at least it's a great excuse to go shopping!
No more than one busy pattern
If mom is wearing a beautiful long floral maxi dress, try to coordinate the rest of the family's outfits with colors from the dress.
Extra cloth
A change of clothing, especially for kids, everything van happens with the precious little ones.
PJs to and from home
PJs for the car ride to and from home (they might fall asleep, and we want to avoid wrinkles).
Full bellies
Come with full bellies - hungry kids are unhappy kids. But don't leave dinner for the car ride over and have to clean up kids in the parking lot.
Special Treat
Plan a special treat for sometime after the session - ice cream, a toy, or a special outing can keep everyone motivated to keep going!
Take enough time
Leave enough time to get ready, and navigate traffic, without rushing and stressing.
Enter a Heading
Your hands will be holding, hugging and gently stroking in many of your photos, so make sure everyone has clean and trimmed nails with no chipped nail polish.
Hair + Makeup
Get haircuts at least a week before, and keep makeup natural. Better yet, get your hair and makeup done professionally. The confidence boost and no-stress is worth it!
Pets
I strongly recommend bringing a friend or pet sitter along to handle and hold your pet while they are not in the shot.