Styling Basics for a Family Photo Session

One of the most important things to do after you schedule your family photoshoot is to figure out what everyone will wear. I recommend choosing one outfit first then build on that for the rest of your family. Typically, I’ll start with moms outfit because let’s face it, we’re the hardest to dress. From there, it will be much easier to dress everyone else.

While you choose your first outfit, you’ll also need to decide what colors you want to use. Think in terms of tones for the color palette: blue tones, earth tones, neutrals, jewel tones, warm tones, etc. Once a color palette is established, it will be easier to choose the other family members outfits so everything will coordinate. Everyone in the family can express their own sense of style within the chosen color palette, and the whole group will coordinate beautifully. From there, we will layer with accessories, clothing and headwear for a cohesive look for the entire family.

One of my favorite things when styling is to layer! It’s more difficult in the summer, but you should definitely layer your outfits whenever you can. Not only will it provide more visual interest in each photo, but it will also allow a lot more variety in your shots and poses. Have a ton of images of yourself in just your dress or cute top and jeans? Throw on a little sweater or jacket and a hat and you have an entirely different look. Adding cardigans, sweaters, vests, leg warmers, socks with boots, all will help elevate your outfits and the final look of your photos.

Another thing to consider while selecting outfits is to think about the texture of the fabrics you select. Using different types of fabric will also help add interest and diversity to your images. Things like lace, fringe, cotton gauze, denim, velvet, satin and linen will each help curate the perfect outfits for your family.

There are a lot of different aspects to consider when you dress your family for family photos but remember that you don’t have to do it alone! I am available to help with dressing your family for your session, and I also have a client closet full of beautiful dresses for you to borrow during your session.