Are you gearing up for your annual family photo session? Capturing precious moments with your loved ones is a wonderful way to preserve memories, but it often comes with the stress of coordinating outfits and ensuring everyone looks their best. Fear not! With a little preparation and some stylish choices, you can create a picture-perfect family portrait that you’ll cherish for years to come. Here are some tips to help you prepare.
Choose a Color Scheme
Before you start picking out individual outfits, decide on a cohesive color scheme for your family photo. This doesn’t mean everyone needs to wear the exact same color from head to toe. Instead, select a palette of 2-3 complementary colors and have each family member incorporate them in their outfit in some way. Neutral tones like cream, beige, and gray photograph beautifully and can be easily mixed and matched. Add pops of color with accessories like scarves, ties, or hair bows to bring visual interest.
Consider the Season and Location
When selecting your color scheme and outfits, take into account the season and the location of your photo session. For a summer beach photo, light, airy colors and flowy fabrics are perfect. A fall photo in the park might call for warmer tones and layers like cardigans or shackets (shirt-jacket hybrids). If you’re taking photos in a more formal setting, like a studio or elegant garden, consider dressier options like collared shirts for men and dresses or skirts for women.
And don’t forget about skincare! Depending on the time of year, the air can be especially dry or have a lot of moisture. Make sure you and your family invest in a clean skincare routine that leaves your skin glowing for your photos–and throughout the year!
Incorporate Timeless Pieces
While it’s fun to incorporate trendy pieces into your family photo outfits, it’s also a good idea to include some timeless, classic items. These could be a well-fitted blazer, a little black dress, or a crisp white shirt. Timeless pieces never go out of style and will help your photos look fresh and relevant for years to come. You can always add trendier accessories like a statement necklace or a fashionable fedora to give your classic pieces a modern twist.
Consider Personalized Pieces
Make your family photo even more special by incorporating personalized clothing items. Monogrammed clothing, like matching monogrammed shirts, jackets or even shackets for a trendier look, add a unique touch. You could also design your custom rings for the adults to wear in the photo. Having your initials or family name displayed not only creates a cohesive look, but also reinforces the sentimentality of the moment you’re capturing together.
Mix Textures and Patterns
While you want your outfits to coordinate, you also want to avoid being too matchy-matchy. Mixing different textures and patterns within your color scheme adds depth and visual appeal to the photo. For example, if Mom is wearing a flowy floral dress, Dad could wear a solid-colored shirt with a textured vest or sweater. The kids could wear complementary patterns like stripes or polka dots. Just be sure not to go overboard – stick to one or two patterns and let the rest be solid colors. Need some ideas? Don’t be afraid to browse fashion and lifestyle blogs for outfit tips and tricks you can use the day of your family photo.
Plan for Comfort
Your family photo session may involve sitting, standing, and even playful poses, so comfort is key. Choose clothing that allows for easy movement and won’t restrict your natural interactions. Flowy dresses, stretchy leggings, and soft knits are all great options. If you have young children, consider their comfort too. Itchy fabrics or fussy suits may lead to grumpy faces in the photos. Opt for soft, breathable materials to keep the kids happy throughout the shoot.
Don’t Forget Footwear
Your choice of shoes can make or break your overall look. Coordinate your footwear with your outfits, but prioritize comfort. You may be walking or standing for extended periods, so avoid shoes that pinch or cause discomfort. For an outdoor photo session, consider the terrain as well. Heels may look great but can be tricky to walk in on grass or uneven ground. Opt for wedges, flats, or boots for a more stable and comfortable option.
Prepare for Touch-Ups
On the day of your photo session, bring along a small touch-up kit with essentials like hairspray, bobby pins, lint roller, and makeup for quick fixes. Take some candid test shots beforehand to see how your outfits translate on camera. Make any necessary adjustments, like removing distracting jewelry or fixing flyaway hairs. Don’t forget to check teeth for any food remnants before the official shots!
Have Fun and Be Yourselves
Above all, remember that your family photo session is about celebrating your unique bond and capturing genuine moments. Encourage everyone to relax, have fun, and let their personalities shine through. Candid, joyful shots often end up being the most treasured. Trust your photographer to guide you and capture the essence of your family’s love and connection.
With these tips in mind, you’re well on your way to styling a stunning family photo that showcases your family’s style and spirit. From coordinating colors to personalized touches like monogrammed clothing and custom-designed rings, small details can make a big impact. Most importantly, focus on creating a comfortable, enjoyable experience for everyone involved. Your smiles and laughter will be the true stars of the photo, and the memories you make will last a lifetime.
