Styling Guide


Preparing for a family photoshoot often comes with the perennial question, "What should we wear?" I understand how busy life can be for parents, but fear not! By following a few key guidelines, you can simplify the process and ensure your family looks coordinated and camera-ready.


Selecting a Harmonious Colour Palette

When it comes to choosing outfits for your family session, colour takes center stage. Neutral and earthy tones are your steadfast companions in this endeavor. These shades seamlessly blend with the natural settings, ensuring your attire complements rather than clashes with the backdrop. Think whites, beiges, muted greens, and soft pastels; they work wonders no matter the location.


Embracing Texture and Patterns

Texture and patterns introduce depth and character to your ensemble. Consider incorporating natural textures such as linen, knitwear, or high-quality denim pieces to elevate your look. Subtle floral patterns can break up solid colours beautifully, but exercise restraint by having just one family member don a patterned piece to maintain visual harmony.



Accentuating Shape

The silhouette of your outfit can accentuate your best features. Flowy dresses create movement and charm in outdoor settings, while form-fitting options showcase elegance and sophistication. Loose-fitting attire sets a relaxed, romantic mood, while form-fitting outfits evoke a chic and refined aura.



Coordinating Family Outfits

Now that you have the basics, let's break down the steps to coordinate your family's outfits.


Start with Parents' Outfits

Begin by selecting the parents' outfits as the foundation for the family's style. This ensures coordination at the forefront of the frame, as parents typically occupy a prominent space in the photos. Once their attire is decided, the rest of the family's outfits can fall into place more easily.


Don't Overlook Footwear

Shoes can make or break an outfit's overall appeal. In the summer, opt for natural and neutral shoes in good shape. Wearing beat up and run down shoes creates an eye sore. During the cooler months, stick to comfortable, single-colour boots in black or brown with minimal detailing.


Prioritize Comfort

Comfort is key to confident, genuine smiles in your photoshoot. If your session is outdoors in chilly weather, ensure your outer layers are both stylish and warm to avoid discomfort. Remember, when everyone feels comfortable, it shines through in the photos.



Additional Tips for Elegance


  • Dress It Up: Don't hesitate to explore styles beyond your everyday wardrobe. Consider flowy dresses or fashionable linen pants to add a touch of elegance.
  • Pay Attention to Details: Subtle accessories like a delicate gold necklace or simple earrings can infuse character into your portraits. Neatly manicured nails can also make a difference, as hands often feature prominently in family photos.
  • Consider Your Home Decor: If you plan to display your family portraits on your walls, consider coordinating your attire with your home decor. It might sound unusual, but it can make a significant impact on the overall aesthetic.


Things to Avoid


  • Logos: A timeless aesthetic is the aim, and logos can date a photograph and detract from the moment.
  • Unnatural Colours: Stick to natural hues; bright jewel tones can clash and create colour issues under varying lighting conditions.
  • Intense Plaid and Bold Patterns: While matching plaid shirts have their place, in elevated family portraits, intense plaid and large patterns can distract and clash with the environment. Opt for subtle plaid in natural colours for a refined look.


By adhering to these guidelines and avoiding the pitfalls, you can ensure your family portraits capture the essence of your unique bond and the beauty of the season, creating cherished memories for years to come.



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