Whether you have them done annually or on occasion, preparing for family photos is no small feat. What to wear? Will the weather cooperate? Will the kids behave? While kids are just as unpredictable as the weather, I’m here to help you at least check one concern off the list. Following are some clothing tips to consider when planning your family’s attire for photos.
Consider colors and editing styles
Choose colors that fit the editing style of your photographer. Before we had our family photos done with Jackie Beachy, I had followed her for years, admiring her vibrant editing style and taking note of what colors worked best with her photography. I opted to style my family in vibrant jewel tones. My daughter and I wore prairie style dresses to fit the aesthetic of our surroundings. My husband and son wore button down shirts in deep, rich hues with similar patterns and different colored slacks that complemented their shirts. The results of pairing our outfit selections with our photographer’s editing style exceeded my expectations. I ordered three 22×44 inch framed canvas prints for display in our living room. They definitely make a bold statement as you enter our home, and I have selected decor for our living room that accentuates our wall art and brings a cohesive feel to the room.
Use color theory
In addition to taking your photographer’s editing style into consideration when planning your attire, color theory plays a crucial role in bringing the wow factor to your photos. Complementary colors bring the most pop, but you may also opt for triadic colors (colors that make a triangle on the color wheel, such as purple, orange, and green). If you prefer a more harmonious and subtle color selection, choose analogous colors (three colors next to each other on the color wheel, such as blue, teal, and green). For an even more subtle look, opt for monochromatic colors (different shades of the same color, such as navy to sky blue).
Get bold with mixing colors, patterns, and textures
Don’t be afraid to mix colors and textures. In addition to choosing earth tones to fit our photographer, Lauren Grayson’s, style last year, I got brave and threw in some mixed patterns. The purple in my floral dress was muted enough to mix with the earth tones of the rest of my family’s wardrobe. My dress also had browns, deep mustard yellow, and burgundy that were drawn out by the color of my son’s shirt, my husband’s pants, and my daughter’s dress. The checkers of color in my husband’s shirt were subtle enough to coordinate with the floral pattern and colors of my dress.
Opt for comfort and confidence
Wear clothes you can move and be comfortable and confident in. While the color choices for our family photos in Utah were much brighter to fit the editing style of our photographer, Jennifer Fauset, we made sure to wear clothing that allowed us to sit, stand, walk, and play. Flowy dresses for my daughter and I and relaxed khakis and button down shirts for my husband and son allowed for free movement. I’m so grateful for the genuine laughter and connection that Jen captured for us. It remains one of my favorite family photos years later. I had it made into a 12×18 metal print that is on display on an accent table in our dining room. Had we been wearing clothes that were stiff, tight, or uncomfortable, we may not have been able to get into position for this shot that I treasure so much.
Throw perfection out the window
Bottom line, it doesn’t have to be perfect. What matters is that you make family photos a priority. If I waited to be the ideal weight or have my hair freshly done, I wouldn’t have any of these photos that I treasure today. Get in the frame. And if you need help with wardrobe planning and confidence boosting, I’m here for you and would love to capture your family’s connection, unpredictable kids, weather, and all. You can book your family photo session here or email me at katie@katrinawinterphotography.com with any questions.
XO, Katie
