A family photo session is an opportunity to capture memories that will last a lifetime. With a little preparation, you can ensure that everyone in the family looks their best and the photographs turn out fantastic. In this blog post, we’ll discuss what to wear and how to prepare for a family photo session, so you can create beautiful, cohesive images that you’ll cherish for years to come.
Choose a Theme or Color Scheme
Before selecting outfits, it’s helpful to decide on a theme or color scheme for your family photos. This can range from something simple like “autumn colors” to something more specific, such as “vintage elegance.” Having a theme in mind will make it easier to choose outfits that complement each other and create a cohesive look. If you’re not sure where to start, browsing through Pinterest or looking at professional family portraits can provide inspiration.
Coordinate Outfits, But Don’t Match
Gone are the days of everyone wearing identical outfits for family photos. Instead, aim to coordinate colors and styles, but don’t worry about being matchy-matchy. Choose a color palette with two or three main colors and have each family member wear something in those hues. This will create a unified look without looking too uniform.
When selecting clothing, consider the location and season of your photo session. Choose outfits that are appropriate for the setting and weather to ensure everyone is comfortable. For example, if you’re taking photos at the beach, lightweight, breezy clothing is a great choice, while cozy layers work well for an autumn photoshoot in the park.
Keep Patterns and Prints in Check
While patterns and prints can add visual interest to your photos, it’s essential not to overdo it. Too many bold patterns can create a busy look and detract from the main focus: your family. If you decide to incorporate patterns, limit them to one or two family members and choose smaller, more subtle prints. Also, avoid clothing with large logos or text, as they can be distracting in photos.
Dress for Comfort and Confidence
Your family photo session should be enjoyable, and a big part of that is feeling comfortable in what you’re wearing. Select clothing that fits well and flatters each person’s body type. Avoid overly tight or uncomfortable garments that may cause fidgeting or self-consciousness. When everyone feels confident in their outfits, it will shine through in the photographs.
Plan Ahead and Prepare
To ensure a smooth and stress-free photo session, plan and prepare in advance. Schedule a date and time that works for everyone and give yourself plenty of time to shop for outfits and accessories. Lay out the clothing the night before the shoot to avoid any last-minute scrambling.
Consider Hair and Makeup
While it’s not necessary to have professional hair and makeup done for your family photo session, it’s essential to consider how each family member will style their hair and, for the ladies, apply makeup. Choose hairstyles that are comfortable and flattering and won’t require constant fussing during the shoot. Similarly, apply makeup that enhances natural features without being overly dramatic. The goal is to look like the best version of yourselves.
