How to style any photo session: 4 no fail tips!

I often get asked about how to style family photos and what takes family photos from good to great. Outfit coordination is the number one thing that will make or break photos. The best way to ensure that your photos come out looking like the rest of your photographer’s portfolio is to follow what your photographer recommends for wardrobe. Those portfolio images did not happen by accident, they were carefully curated.

Here’s a handful of tips that will help take any photo shoot with any photographer from good to great.

1. Solid Colors. Limit your patterned clothes as much as possible to ensure that you and your family are the focus of the photos. Too many patterns create busyness so I suggest wearing almost entirely solids.

2. Neutral or Earthy Colors. Wearing warm neutrals like cream, tan, oatmeal will keep your skin tones looking creamy and beautiful. When selecting colors choose earthy tones like rusty red, burnt orange, sage green, dusty navy or muted pink. This helps eliminate unflattering shadows from the colors on the skin. Neutrals and Earthy tones are also more timeless and will help your photos stand the test of time. Don’t let the whole family wear the same colored pants.

3. Dressy shoes. Choose shoes that are not athletic or bulky. Feet often are closer to the camera in seated poses which can distort them to look bigger and not that big feet is a problem, but you don’t want them to appear distractingly big. I also recommend avoiding shoes with tall heels or that are overly formal. Opt for colors like brown or black. Many people assume that feet will not be visible in the photos which is the furthest thing from the truth, they’re almost always visible.

4. Dress Comfortably. Be sure that clothing fits well and is something you feel confident in. I highly recommend mom wears a dress with some type of sleeve and dad avoids shorts. Also try to wear clothing that is seasonally appropriate. I want you to be comfortable!

There’s a million ways to style a session well and fashion changes constantly, but these tips are tried and true. They will cause your photos to be timeless, which will make them lasting photos that you want to keep up on your walls.

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Styling Your Outdoor Family Photography Session: Spokane Family Photographer

Lifestyle family photos in Spokane, Wa.

Styling your session can feel stressful and overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be! I’m here to help you simplify the process and get it done quick and easily. You don’t have to shop at expensive boutiques and sometimes you can dress the whole family all at one place.

Dress Mom First. Mom this is your time to shine! I love a dress for mom, it just adds a warm, feminine element to the photos. Mom’s outfit sets the vibe for the rest of the family- dressing up or down. Elevated casual is the way to go, avoid formal gowns. Think wedding guest, not the bride. Keep the whole family reasonably comfortable and true to the best version of themselves.

Choose Creamy Neutral Colors. The majority of your color palette should be warm neutrals- this will give your skin tones a beautiful creamy look. An earthy toned color or two is okay as well. You’ll want to avoid anything too vibrant or bright, as it may cast unflattering shadows.

Limit Patterns. As a rule of thumb I recommend two patterns or less for families with under 5 members. Too many patterns will look busy. I want your family to be the focus of the photos and the best way to do this is to eliminate the busyness of too many patterns which can be distracting to the eye. It is also best to avoid clothing with print graphics for this reason.

Layer, Texture, Fit are key. Choosing clothing that is well fitting is always recommended- I want you to be comfortable!. Using a variety of textures and layers adds warmth to your photos.

Accessorize. This is a great way to add your own flavor to your photos. Add hats, jewelry, the perfect pair of shoes to your wardrobe to really personalize your style. I recommend choosing shoes that are an equal level of formal to your outfits. Avoiding selections like athletic shoes for your children, booties can be a great alternative for kiddos with shoe struggles.

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