I’m pretty sure my sisters think I am CRAZY when I say I love getting to pick out family picture outfits or outfits for any session really. I LOVE it. Seriously, I do. It’s so fun to put pieces together to get a finished product I love! I realize I am in the minority here so I’ve decided to share my three secrets for achieving the perfect wardrobe for your next session. As a preface, I want you to remember that a little bit of effort will go a LONG way in creating a dreamy, classic, and beautiful finished product.

Secret 1: Achieving the look.

The key to success here is to dress it up. I get jokes from clients about wearing a dress in a field or dessert but I promise you won’t think it is weird when you get your final gallery. There is no set line for dressing it up but remember, you will never regret being overdressed. Maxi skirts and dresses flatter most every body shape (especially those expecting mothers) and when accompanied by a suit or a blazer and slacks combo a classic, timeless look is created and is always a safe bet! These pictures will last beyond a lifetime so treat yourself to a new outfit or even rent something if you feel it is too expensive to add. Now is the time to rock that tulle skirt, sequence gown, or flower crown that you’ve always wanted.

Secret 2: Choosing colors and prints.

The overall mood and look of your final gallery is greatly affected by the colors you choose. Light and airy is a style but also a mood which reflects well off of a simple, softer color palette. Think light neutrals: whites, creams, and tans accompanied by soft pinks, muted mauve, dusty blues, and earthy greens. Leather browns and heather greys are great accents to this palette. The key to remember is when you keep the outfits colors simple it allows the focus to be on your faces and the moments we are capturing. If you are worried about adding dimension to outfits, it is better to add depth with color and layers (hats, belts, jewelry) instead of adding prints. In regards to prints I believe it is better to have soft or minimal prints as they are distracting to the eye and the camera.

Secret 3: Focus on coordination over matching.

This is key. Gone are they days of family pictures with everyone in blue jeans and matching white shirts. Matching creates focus issues as well. Think of a zebra. When multiples zebras are together it is hard to tell them apart because the colors are identical and the stripes all melt into each other! This is NOT what we are going for! The goal for coordinating a family is to visually break up the colors and shades so that you’re not all wearing the same color on top and bottom. The more we can mix that up, the better. We encourage you to think about planning each outfit with “dominant colors” and “accent colors” in mind. Details are great ways to tie everyone’s colors in to one another without being overpowered.

I am positive that these three tips, tricks, secrets are the key to family pictures that feel light and airy. Less is more and more comes from less! I can’t wait to see what you come up with for your family session!

Happy Friday!

 

Ivory + Bliss Photography