I get this question very often and I wanted to share how I normally respond to my clients:
“What should we wear and how should we dress our families for our next photo shoot?”
I am very convinced of two issues when it comes to how to dress for an upcoming photo shoot.
First, I believe in not getting carried away by the “look” of everything. As the subject of the photo, you naturally think, “Oh, I want us all to look our best for our shoot” and “I want our outfits to coordinate.” That is, of course, at the top of everyone’s list, and for good reason. The problem arises when a well-intentioned individual deviates from the natural aspect of his family and ventures into uncharted waters.
For example, imagine there is a family with two little girls who play in the dirt and dig for worms and climb trees. Chances are good that most days those little ones are dressed to play. On pleasant occasions, the girls’ parents may dress them in a more appropriate outfit, but still, they probably know it’s safer to dress them in nice play clothes rather than high-end boutique clothing! If that family doesn’t usually dress in fancy clothes, and in fact, most of the time those girls’ shoes don’t match their dresses or they go on the wrong feet, as their photographer, I want to capture those badass and tumbling girls, those girls They climb trees and charm snakes. Parents may not realize it at the time, but ultimately that’s what they want too. They want to remember their children as they were, their little personalities frozen in time.
Having said that, there are definitely other little girls who are dressed to the nines in ruffles and dresses every day. And those girls should surely be dressed like that for their photos too!
The bottom line is to let your clothes reflect your personality and that of your family, not project their character onto you… And let those little ones be comfortable!
Second, try not to choose colors that blend with your background. If your shoot is scheduled to take place among the fall leaves, think twice about using brown and orange, or at least add balance with other colors as well. If you’re taking pictures in a lush park in spring, don’t dress in green from head to toe! It’s pretty simple. I tend to be satisfied with the way cool colors are photographed as a general rule, but all colors work, just depending on when and where we’re shooting, and what you’re looking for! Many people like to choose a “theme” color and make sure there is at least a hint in each person’s outfit. A good idea that almost everyone already knows is to coordinate, not pair. Also, don’t underestimate the accessories. Shoes, jewelry, hair items all add a touch of character to photos.
There are some other tips to remember as well. First of all, photographs live years and years after they are taken. It’s a good idea to choose a somewhat vintage outfit (unless that’s not your thing, and then don’t!) that won’t date the photo for years to come. Let your age, not your outfit, date the portrait. In addition, many adults have expressed that they wish they hadn’t worn a strapless or sleeveless shirt, that all the bare skin distracted them. Third, plan for unpredictable weather. Your outfits may need to be flexible enough to incorporate a sweater or scarf, for example. Last but definitely not least, if your shoot is going to be in the colder months, add more layers than you think you need. For adults this is great, but for babies and toddlers it is absolutely essential for a successful session.
And one more little post about something I’m passionate about: A lot of women don’t like how they look in photos. Please don’t let this stop you from having your family photos. And don’t put it off. You’ll want to have been IN the photos with your family when you’re old and looking back, and your kids will definitely wish they had photos with their parents. Don’t let the image of the image override the moment in time it’s captured. An image is much more than outfits and hairstyles, it is about remembering a phase of your life that you will never live again. So take those photos and be proud of the person you see in them when the proofs are returned to you!