What the heck do I wear to my photo shoot?

FAMILYSESSION INFO

Nov 4

So you have decided to book a photoshoot, exciting?!? Until you go to your wardrobe to pull some outfits for the session, and just like a first date- you have NO bloody clue what to wear, little own what to dress the rest of the family in! These photos are going to be around for a long time so you want everyone to look amazing…. Want to dress to impress? Read on friends….

Don’t Match, Co-Ordinate!

Matching chunky knit jumpers in the 80’s, families running along the beach in white shirt and denim in the 90’s…. lets just stop before my eyes start to bleed! There’s nothing worse than a photo that’s forced or not genuine -identical outfits can be a big cause of this. You can avoid the cringe of matching clothes by just selecting a colour palette of three or four complementary colours, and then dress your family in the shades of that palette. I always advise clients to start with a main outfit that has a “statement” pattern (usually a patterned dress or shirt), and then have the rest of the family’s clothes borrow colours from that palette. If your a little lost, Natural or muted palettes (such as greys, tans, whites and creams) always work well- they are easy to coordinate and it leaves the attention on your gorgeous faces rather then your outfits.

With that being said, always choose colours/styles of clothing that compliment your family. It can be very tempting to stalk pinterest boards and put together beautiful outfits that dont actually suit your family or really feel like “you”.

Vibe check

When it comes to dressing up for a family photo shoot, think about the vibe you want to rock! Are you feeling those earthy, boho vibes? Picture yourselves in flowy fabrics, natural and warm hues. Or, perhaps you're all about that crisp, coastal or minimalist look, with clean lines, fresh whites to match your home decor. If cozy whimsy is your jam, snuggle up in soft textures, playful mis matched textures patterns, and colors that make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside. And hey, who says you can't bring the party with bright, fun outfits that pop with personality? Go bold with vibrant hues, energetic prints if that suits your vibe. Whatever vibe you're vibing, let your clothes do the talking and capture your family in a way that is true to your style.

Cant think of what to wear… wear nothing!

Ok…. so this may not be for every shoot but there is just something about showing skin at a session. Whether its a artsy maternity session, or stripping down to your cozzie and playing with your kids in the waves, you do not always have to be fully clothed for your session. If you are little shy, think about cozzies with a lace throw over, or maybe a bralette and a flowy skirt. I only shoot very tasteful photos, and I will make sure you look flippin amazing!

Look To Your Home Decor

Family photo shoots are very likely to result in a beautiful artwork displayed on the wall of the family home. Ensure clothing choices match the vibe/colour scheme of the room where you are planning on hanging the portrait, otherwise some unwanted clashing may occur.

Keep Comfort in Mind!

There’s no point in everyone looking sharp, when Dad is grimacing in every photo because his collar is too tight, little Jacks shorts are itchy or mums boobs are falling out of her top. Of course you want to look snazzy, but remember you need to be comfortable as well!

Shoes

Shoes can often stand out like a sore thumb. I’m a big fan of going barefoot, but if its not possible at the location, then make sure everyone has shoes that go with their outfit choices. Please leave daggy joggers at home or chuck in some thongs to get from A to B and kick them off when its time to shoot.

Grooming

Movement from hair can inject some life into a photo so feel free to leave hair out. If your worried about it blowing in your face or your kids hair being everywhere while we shoot, consider tying or braiding a section of it back. Plan your haircuts/colour at a couple weeks before the shoot, that way if your hair dresser gets a bit carried away with toner or cuts your sons hair and little to short, it has a little bit of time to settle down before your session.

Some other helpful hints….

Characters and Logos are a No-Go

This is specifically directed towards kid’s (and usually dads) clothing. As much as you don’t want to step on their proud love of Paw Patrol, having it plastered on shirt is a distracting element in a photo. Same goes for dad’s favourite Metallica shirt. The main focus of the shoot should be the people in your family - not the logo or words on clothes.

No for neons….

Neon tones are a hard no. It doesn’t photograph well, and you will have to deal with crazy colour cast on skin. I do not recommend it, unless you’re a family that goes to a lot of raves.

Check out my client wardrobe?

Feeling stuck and don’t know where to start. Check out my client wardrobe. Available free of charge to anyone who books a session with me! Visit my insta highlights to view pieces available. Or even take some time and browse social media for anything that pops out at you,

Accessorize!

Adding accessories to photos is an easy way to introduce different textures - adding different elements add interest to a photo. Scarves, hats, jewellery, head bands, belts, vests, kimonos; if its fun and shows off their individual personalities, encourage your clients to wear what they normally would in the photoshoot.

Look for pieces with movement.

This one is for the ladies. There is nothing more breathtaking then an outfit that has movement, it brings fun, life and drama to an image. This of swishy skirts and dresses that are perfect for whirling and twirling.

Maternity and Newborn sessions.

Try to avoid blacks and really dark colours if you're having an in-home family or newborn session OR if you’re having a maternity session (as black can hide your beautiful bump, black bikini/bra is all)

DO’s

-Consider a palette of 3 to 4 complimentary colour and patterns

-Neutrals are always a great go to

-Mix plain pieces with some pattern pieces

-introduce some textured elements such a linens, embroided shirts or vests to add interest.

-Wear something comfortable and that you can move

-Wear bare feet or shoes that blend

-Accessorize & add textures and layers to outfits

-Consider outfits with movement flowy dresses, twirly skirts for girls, hair out

DONT’S

-Wear neons

-Shirts with lots of graphics/large logos

-Ratty shoes or joggers

-Super short outfits or anything to low cut that your likely to pop out of

-Ladies, don’t wear anything too loose, it is not flattering

Where to Buy?

So you got the idea but dont know where to start shopping? Check out some of these fab retailers. I have included a diverse range of options to suit all budgets. Also, before you blow your hard earnt $$ be sure to check out my client wardrobe and make sure there is not something you could nab from there first!

WOMEN

Tree of life
Bohemian Traders
Co and Ry
Daughters of India
HAZEL AND Folk
Spell
Free people
Forever New
Roolee
Filly Boo
Showpo

KIDS

Cotton on Kids
Best and Less
Kmart
H & m
Ghanda
Country Road
Seed Heritage
Children of the Tribe
My Brother John
Luca the Label
Rylee and Cru
Zara Kids