What should we wear?
This is one of the most common questions I get during pre-session communications. It can be daunting to choose clothing pieces for the whole family that feel great and photograph well. Luckily for my clients, I love answering this question and assisting with wardrobe selection. I do maintain a client closet, but I don't have every style in every size, so sometimes clients bring their own wardrobe, or do a mix of mine and theirs. But here is the standard advice I give for dressing families.
First, start with a color palette. I typically suggest going with neutrals or earth tones. When choosing pieces for the family, go with coordination over matching. Choose pieces of the same color tone/family. Instead of going with a different color or pattern for everyone, choose different textures to add interest. Avoid patterns, especially large ones. Avoid having more than one person with a noticeable pattern on their clothing. Avoid logos, writing, and athletic material. Go for natural fabrics like cotton and linen.
Choose a neutral palette and vary textures and accessories to add visual interest.
Women & girls
I do love me a flowy dress. Not only do they look beautiful and feminine, but they allow for movement which often looks lovely in photos. Pair a neutral dress with a hat, sweater or jewelry to complete the look. If you're newly postpartum, choose dresses that won't restrict your midsection and might allow for easy breastfeeding. If you're not into dresses, that's okay too. Choose pieces that make you feel great and stay true to your own style. A flowy top with jeans or leggings can allow for the same movement a dress does.
For girls, the same rules apply. Choose something she loves and feels comfortable in. Hair bows, headbands or even tiaras might make her feel special. My girls loved "spinny" dresses when they were little; there's nothing more precious than a little girl twirling in a dress. Make it fun and simple.
MEN & BOYS
Keep it simple. A coordinating cotton henley with jeans or khakis often looks perfect. Even a nice, dressier t-shirt will work, just make sure there isn't any writing or distracting logos on it. Keep it neat, keep it simple. Iron or steam shirts before your session for a polished look (trust me, your photographer really doesn't want to photoshop wrinkles out of clothing in all your photos). Wear a belt if necessary. Stay away from athletic material, even if it's a nicer shirt. Sometimes these materials create a strange pattern in images called moire. Stick with cotton and linen. Not only are they more comfortable, but they also photograph better.
GO-TO BRANDS FOR PHOTOSHOOT OUTFITS
JOYFOLIE ($$)- For girls and women. Large selections of dresses that photograph really well. They also carry cute shoes, sweaters & outerwear. Keep an eye on their website if you see something you like, because there are frequent sales.
BALTIC BORN ($$) - A wide selection of dresses for women in many styles, many of which are bump-friendly for maternity and postpartum.
RECLAMATION ($$$) - Stunning boho dresses made from vintage materials. Many of their dresses are splurges, but if quality is important to you, you might want to check them out.
AMAZON ($-$$) - For everyone. I find that searches for "boho dresses for photoshoot" or "girls photoshoot neutral dresses" often pull up what I'm looking for. Be careful and read reviews when purchasing, and give yourself enough time to return and re-order if necessary. Sometimes Amazon's quality is hard to predict. You can find great dupes for girls Tutu Du Monde dresses and Joyfolie.
RYLEE & CRU ($$) - For children's outfits. Great quality neutrals and fun prints for kids.
THE SIMPLE FOLK ($$) - For kids. Timeless, good quality neutral outfits for little ones.
CARTER'S LITTLE PLANET ($) - For babies and toddlers. This is Carter's organic line, and is sold through the Carter's website. I believe Target now carries a small selection in their stores as well. Adorable knits and cotton outfits.
