If you’re like me, the most stressful part of getting family pictures taken is deciding what to wear. You don't want to clash, but everyone should wear something flattering.
My friend Corinn (in my opinion) does a great job of dressing her family for pictures. She manages to choose outfits that are creative and go together, but don’t leave everyone looking like twins. She shared these tips with me:
1. Start with an inspirational piece of clothing.
This might be a shirt you really love, some fantastic red pants, or an adorable dress you just found for your baby.
2. Build around this piece by finding one thing that goes with it for everyone else.
If your inspirational piece was purchased recently, go back to that store. Typically stores and brands will have the same color scheme for their season’s styles, so it will be easier to find matching colors this way. Bring the piece of clothing you're trying to match so you can compare them before you buy.
3. Try not to have more than one person in a pattern (or perhaps 2 if you have a larger family).
Otherwise, too many bold patterns can look confusing and busy.
4. Consider the backdrop.
Think about the season and location where we will be shooting. How can you stand out from it, but not clash?
If it’s springtime or summer in the park, greens won’t make you pop–but other bold colors or pretty blues will. If you want to wear green (like this adorable dress below that popped brilliantly against the Blue Bridge), try pairing it with another piece that will separate it from nature. If it’s autumn in the woods, some colors might pop, but a pattern with fall colors will fight too much with the leaves.
5. Above all, choose outfits that make you feel confident.
If an outfit doesn't quite fit or isn't your style, your discomfort will come through on the pictures. You don't want to worry about adjusting layers to sit just right. What outfit makes you beam when you look in the mirror?
Now that you're dressed, book your shoot!