Family Session Outfits: What Not To Wear
Once you have scheduled a family photo session with me and chosen a location, the next thing to do is to decide on your family session outfits!
Clothing does make a statement and you want to choose outfits that will make you feel comfortable and confident. That said, it can be tricky to know not just what to wear, but what not to wear for your family photo session.
In this blog article, we run down some of the top issues clients have when choosing clothing that is photography friendly for their family photo session. We will also explore some of the best ways you can let your personality shine with your clothing choice!
So, let’s get started!
Unusual Clothing, Patterns, or Designs
I always recommend choosing a variety of coordinating colors and patterns for your family to wear. However, harsh patterns and designs, or neon colors, can be very distracting in your images. You’ll want to avoid these when choosing pieces.
You’ll also want to avoid very small pattern, like tiny checks on a button down shirt. These can cause distortion in the camera lens and do not photograph well. I generally recommend patterns no smaller than a quarter.
Branded Clothing
It can depend on the brand of course but avoid wearing any clothing with large brand names or logos on the front.
You want your family photos to be focused on you and your family, and not a brand that may not be in fashion in decades to come.
The same is true for any t-shirt or hoodie that has a print with wording on it. Again, the wording can be difficult to read in a photo and some of the words can be cut off in the image. You still want the focus to be on you and your family, right?
If you do want to make a statement, there may be some times when this can be appropriate. For example, for a pregnancy announcement or baby shower. You could add a cute onesie with an announcement written on it.
Correct Footwear
There is nothing more uncomfortable than having the wrong footwear, especially so during your family photo session.
If you are having an outdoor session, wear comfortable shoes that will allow you to enjoy nature. Wearing heels, for example, where there is rocky or uneven terrain is not a good idea. You could change for cowboy boots or wedges, and bring along a pair of flat shoes to the session as well.
It is a good idea to bring a couple of pairs of shoes along to the session, just in case you decide to remove footwear or change it.
Distracting Accessories
Accessories can be a great way to add your unique personality and style to your outfit. However, just like with branded clothing, accessories can distract attention away from you in the photos. For example, any kind of hat or very large jewelry may be overpowering in the final image. You’ll want to avoid these, if possible.
Perfectly Matching Outfits
Have you ever seen a family photo taken on a beach, where every member of the family is wearing the exact same white shirt and khaki shorts? Yeah, me too. This was a popular trend about a decade ago. In some instances, wearing matching outfits can work. However, when the whole family wears matching outfits, this can look cheesy and that’s not something you want in your family photos for the years to come.
Instead, consider wearing coordinating colors or a matching color on one or two accessories. This will look less obvious, and blend in well.
For babies and children, matching outfits can be appropriate in some cases. Twins, for example, can look cute and dashing in matching outfits at a young age.
Consider what is best for you and your family so that each member can bring out their uniqueness.
Conclusion
Overall, we want to create a series of photos that make you shine as a family!
You can do this by wearing simple but classy clothing, wearing colors that coordinate, and by focusing on having fun!
If you are still unsure about what to wear, don’t worry. I am here to help you! All of the families that I work with have my assistance in finding the right things to wear for all of their family photos.
Have you booked your family photo session this year yet? Head over to this link to get started and book your family photo session. I can’t wait to hear from you!
Lavender Lemonade Photography specializes in family, senior and brand photography and serves the Eugene, OR area. Follow along on Instagram for the latest booking dates and tips for your session!
