the first step to picking out family photoshoot outfits...
the number one question I get from clients is "what should I wear for our family portraits"
So here is my number one tip!
Be selfish! That's right! You know how on an airplane they tell you to put your mask on before you help anyone else. That is my advice when picking out an outfit. Chances are, if you are the one reading this, you are also the one who booked the photos and the one who needs to plan the outfits. So, choose your own outfit first! This will eliminate so much stress!!
Here is how it usually goes when picking outfits for family portraits... You find something super cute for your kids, so you buy it. Then, you need to find something for you and your partner to wear that matches. Because you've chosen your kids outfits first, it's limiting what you can wear that will match.
If you're anything like me, when it's time to pick an outfit for something special, everything in my closet is all of a sudden garbage - it's all ugly and nothing fits right. This is made especially difficult by having to match to something you've already purchased for your kids. So, you order something new, but the colour isn't right or it doesn't fit comfortably.
This is exactly why you should be selfish and pick your own outfit first!
This will make it much easier to find something you like and feel good in, and then you can pick something for your kids & partner that works with it.
Want more tips? Keep reading to find out how to match outfits together.
here are five tips for choosing outfits for a family photoshoot
Choose something you can move in
When selecting an outfit for a family photoshoot, I always suggest choosing something that has movement. If you are looking for fun, candid, family photos, you will likely be running around, laughing, having fun, so it's important you're not in something that's tight or uncomfortable. This advice goes for everyone in the pictures!
choosing colours
As I mentioned above, my best advice is to choose something you want to wear first. By doing this, you are setting the colour palette for the outfits. I don't think there is one colour palette that is better than others. We all look different in different colours, we all like different colours, so it's really about what you like! However, you may want to think about where you're taking the photos. If it's in the woods, maybe don't wear all green. If it's in a studio with a while backdrop, don't wear all white. Here are some outfits I suggested for Mother's Day Minis this year.
Mix & match
A simple rule to follow when coordinating outfits is to stick to a ratio of one pattern per every three solids. For example, if one family member is wearing a patterned dress or shirt, the others can complement it with solid colors pulled from the patterned outfit.
save by using what you have & thrifting
You don't have to spend a lot of money when choosing outfits for your family portrait session. Consider thrifting for unique pieces that fit your style and budget. You may also find hidden gems in your own closet that you've forgotten about. Mix and match pieces to create new outfits that are comfortable and you feel great in.
Windsor has some awesome thrift shops. I often find great things at In The Bin. Windsor is also home to thrift stores such as The B's Rainbow Thrift, Cheeky Chic Boutique, and Pearl & Nanny's.
think about accessories
Accessories can elevate your outfit and add visual interest to your photos. Consider adding subtle touches like layering necklaces, a hair clip, or a cute hat to enhance your look without overpowering it. Just remember to keep it simple and avoid overly flashy accessories that may detract from the overall aesthetic.
above all...
Remember, the most important thing is to feel comfortable and confident in your outfit choices! And the first step is to choose your outfit first. It seems selfish, and maybe you found something really cute for your kids, but I promise, it'll make choosing outfits for your family photoshoot so much easier!
Are you interested in booking a session with me? Shoot me a message here & let's chat about options.
