I often get asked,
"What should my family wear for our outdoor portraits?"
I have a whole list of helpful information at the FAQs page of my web site (
click here)... but here is what it comes down to. (Please note: These guidelines are for outdoor sessions. For indoor sessions with a newborn or maternity sessions, please be sure to visit the FAQs page at my web site as there is detailed information for you there.)
First and foremost, think about the rooms in your home that you will be hanging wall portraits. Work your clothing color scheme around that. For example: If you have red couches, you don't want anyone wearing pink. If you have a very neutral color theme in your living room, you might like to accent it with images of your family wearing a more colorful wardrobe.
Here are a few pointers to help you dress for success.
DOs:
- Definitely check out this link from Amy Coe (click here) for AMAZING pics of what to wear!
- Also, check out this link from Taryn. Great visuals of several outfits!
- DO wear what reflects you. Have fun with it! Solids are great, but don't be afraid of a little pattern or texture.
- DO lint roll everyone before the session to avoid any fuzzies.
- DO make sure there are NO phones, keys, wallets, or sunglasses in any pockets.
- DO bring wipes if you have children, and wipe their faces 2-3 times during our shoot. (Pay special attention to noses, eyes, and around their mouth.)
- Ladies: DO wear cool jewelry, scarves, necklaces, bracelets, etc. Just make sure they are on properly during the shoot.
- DO let Sarah know what your kids will be wearing before our session together, as she has lots of cool props that might go perfectly with it.
DON'Ts:
- Don't be too "matchy-matchy." It is great to wear similar / somewhat solid / gem tone colors, but don't be afraid of a little print and wearing what really reflects your personality!
- Groups: Don't wear all black, as it won't accurately reflect your personality. All white shirts with khaki pants can work well, but make sure the ladies accessorize with some colorful jewelry.
- Don't wear flip flops. They just don't photograph well.
- For non-summer sessions where shoes are necessary, leather loafers or lace ups - or single color shoes are better than tennis shoes, Nikes, etc.
- If it is not "Summer in Texas" weather, wear pants/jeans. They photograph better than shorts. But if it is a hot Texas day, wear what you feel will keep you most comfortable.
- Don't wear shirts with low necklines. Especially if kids will be in the photos, as they tend to pull down an already low neckline while they sit on you.
- Moms-to-be and newborns: Don't wear elastic socks and/or waistbands for an hour before the session or marks may show.
I have included some images here of great color schemes from some of my past sessions.
Gem tones also work great together. Blues, purples, greens, mauves, etc.
You can even find color inspiration from animals. Think about how beautiful the colors of a peacock are. Those colors work amazingly well together when worn too! This guy was totally showing off for my camera.
Also, for more great color schemes, click:
If you have any questions about what to wear for your session that I haven't answered here, feel free to contact me - I'd love to help!
