10 Tips for Family Photo Styling

10 Tips for Family Photo Styling

A family photography session is intended to be a fun and memorable event (for most). But I talk to so many families and they always mention how much they stress over what to wear! There are a few things that can be done ahead of time to highlight you and your family at their best. Here are several tips to help you prepare for your next session, give you some idea of what to wear and take the stress out of being the chief stylist in your home.

1. You Do You

Always remember that you are unique and wonderful, just as you are. So hard to hear right? But that’s the main reason I love taking family photos because I find the extraordinary in what you see as ordinary. First, wear something that makes you feel great about yourself and you’ll be amazed at the difference! If you feel self-conscious or out of your comfort zone, you likely can’t completely relax and enjoy these special moments. Pick something you know that you love and want to look at on your wall or shelf for years to come! Don’t be afraid to go out and buy something new for yourself or your crew that makes you feel modern and chic! Wearing clothes that make you and your family feel comfortable is what matters most! Comfort is key and will allow you to shine on in your beautiful images that you’ll cherish for years to come!

2. Matchy-Matchy

Gone are the days of feeling obligated to have all your children be ‘twinsies’ to make a beautifully composed family portrait, even though that’s exactly what my daughters wear right now and does work beautifully for so many sessions. Pick a couple of colors and choose clothes that will fit in this color scheme. Is your family more laid back and relaxed? There are plenty of ways to highlight the vibe of your family in a casual way with coordinating colors and styles. So, if you can’t find the right sizes in the exact same dress or button-down shirt it’s totally acceptable to switch it up a bit.

3. Colors in Your Home

Are you classically neutral or bold and bright? Since you will likely be placing these images throughout your home, think about the colors of your clothes complimenting the colors in your home décor. If you don’t know where you want to put these precious photos yet, take a walk around your home and scout out a few locations you have in mind to find some color inspiration. Also, be careful if anyone chooses bold and bright colors. Go to a sunny window in your home with said colors and first check to see if there are any cast shadows that end up on a neck, chin, or arm when he/she may wear the item next to someone else.

One thing that I found while shooting families for timeless shots - you can never go wrong with hues of blues!

4. ‘Tis The Season

Coordinating the colors of the seasons can help an indecisive stylist. Beautiful pastels in the spring compliment the surroundings. Airy, light and fun colors or whites match the good-vibes of the need for cool undertones for summer. Bolder, richer colors in the fall and winter do well too.

5. Pattern Play & Characters

I always enjoy a fun pattern and awesome graphic tee. Having an outfit that complements you, your personality and all the colors surrounding is key. But, this is a tough one because distracting the eye with multiple patterns may detract from the final image. If you know a thing or two about style and coordination, go for it! Alternatively, if not done right or don’t have a lot of time to plan ahead like a lot of us, steer clear of your kids favorite cartoon character, logo tee, or sports jersey that can change the focal point and those shining faces. It may be better suited for the ride home after a successful shoot rather than during the session.

6. Texture

A mix of fabrics tends to make for a dreamy photograph. Lace is pretty for the women of the group or as an accent, complimented with cool denim or corduroy! Wool, satin, or chiffon works too! The flow of materials is important too. Something flowing and not too tight or clingy works exceptionally well for the end result of the photos.

7. Plan Ahead

I always love a semi-casual look. Nothing too dressy, but something you feel proud to wear and show off later in images. Flip-flops or barefoot, either way, looks great to me as long as you think about it ahead of time and would be happy with the end product. My job is to capture your essence. Make sure to think about those wrist culprits like hairbands, bracelets, or sport watches too. Band-Aids beware! I’ve been caught myself several times wishing I had taken these things off prior to getting pictures! Hair is always a big piece of the portrait puzzle too. We are often outside a lot during photo sessions, so keep in mind the weather conditions. The wind, temperature, humidity (we are in the Mid-Atlantic), or salt-air are all contributing to the end result.

8. Accessorize and Layer

Scarves are great for adding color, interest and depth. A statement necklace, earrings or other pieces are fun too. Hats and caps are fine, but keep those eyes visible. Shoes – we are at the beach so I’ll leave that up to you. If you do wear them, ensure they are clean and in good appearance. Make sure they fit too – especially the little ones – which will transfer over into facial expressions even when they try to behave.

9. The Background

Contrast is your friend. Set yourself apart from your background. For example, if you are having a beach session surrounded by lots of sand, blues skies, ocean waves, and neutral tones, those same colors may camouflage you. If it’s an overcast day, you may reconsider wearing grays and whites and going for a pop of color instead. Picture the background where you may be and picture the opposite colors on the color wheel.

10. Have Fun!

Planning ahead takes the stress off early on and makes for a much more enjoyable time leading up to the session! Having fun during the planning process can also trickle down to your family. It might even help them relax (or less whining) a bit, while not feeling overwhelmed at the thought of getting in front of a camera. Whatever you do, if you are a planner or not, remember these are your memories and moments to share with your family today and tomorrow, so make them uniquely fitting to you and your loved ones.