WHAT TO WEAR : FAMILY PORTRAITS
Listed below are tips to guide you in styling your modern family portrait.
Coordinate colors...
Families should Coordinate but don’t match. This is the key to a modern look. The denim and white t shirt look is very dated and overdone. When styling a family portrait, I like to start out with a basic color palette of 3-5 colors and or neutrals and go from there. It can help to have one inspiration piece in the photos. One family member who has a pattern and color theme in their outfit. Then the rest of the group’s clothing or accessories pull their colors from it. Try and keep the colors spread out among the family. It's a good general rule to repeat each color at least three times to balance out the look. Lay your pieces out on a bed and see how they work together.
Add pattern...
Patterns are good in moderation. They can add visual interest and texture as well as a good dose of personality. Just make sure that your patterns are complementary. For example a small scale polka dot next to a large floral visually "works". The key is that they are opposites; small verses large scale pattern, soft organic lines verses strong geometric ones. Opposites make things interesting. Sharing a color palette among your patterns brings it all together for a unified look. Keep in mind that small patterns like pinstripes or a gingham check often read as a solid in your photo. Step back and look at your patterns from a distance to see how they appear in a portrait.
Add layers and textures...
Layers and textures are beautiful and create interest in photos. I love using multiple textures and layers, especially when working with a soft, neutral color palette. It gives subtle interest to the photo. Texture can be added in different clothing materials and accents. For example a leather jacket, a lace top, knit items, fur or metallics. Also, having different layers of clothing and accessories can add another dimension to the overall texture of the image. These details and added depth are especially important in black and white images.
Add accessories...
Accessories and layers can be easily changed up a bit throughout the session. This can give you multiple looks without having to do actual wardrobe changes. Accessorize with scarves, hats, flowers in the hair for girls, jewelry, sweaters, vests, jackets, etc. All these things can take a boring image and make it feel “complete”. But don’t let the accessories overwhelm the subject or the photos though. You want the viewer to notice the subject and their personality first. The accessories and clothing should just complement them, not be center stage. Spread your color theme throughout outfits with punches of color in accessories. For example, if sister’s patterned skirt has tones of pink and blue, have mom wear a pink scarf and little brother in a blue pair of Converse. Show off the kids’ and your unique personality with accessories.
Bring props...
Think about subtle props that blend with the the vibe of the session as well, but keep them simple and meaningful. A handful of flowers that coordinate with color pops in the subjects’ clothing. Or even better is a prop that is meaningful to the subject ; their favorite stuffed animal, a quilt made by great grandma or a book. A child interacting with a treasured toy can make a wonderful lifestyle type portrait.
Think about the end product...
How will the images be displayed? Think about the primary reason you are doing the session and dress accordingly. For instance, if it’s for Christmas cards you might want to dress in wintery, seasonal clothing. For a gallery canvas in the living room, think about coordinating with the colors and feel of your rooms decor.
Complement your location...
If you have a location in mind, think about it and make sure your wardrobe complements the surroundings. For example, at a field location with a rustic barn in the background would be perfect for a little girl dressed in a simple, vintage style dress. That same look might be out of place in an urban setting with a graffiti wall in the background. Also, consider how well the colors and patterns in the wardrobes will stand out against the backdrops of your location.
Make sure your comfortable in your outfit...
Everyone should be able to move freely and comfortably in their outfits. You especially want children happy and comfortable, not grouchy and miserable during the shoot! This means letting kids have some input in what they wear. Kids who help dress themselves will not only be much happier when shooting time comes, but you’ll let their own beautiful personalities shine through in the images. The same goes for adults. Make sure that you select an outfit that makes you feel stunning and relaxed.
A few things NOT to do . . .
• Avoid anything with logos, graphics, characters, labels, etc. These can be distracting (who wants people to first notice the Nike or Gap logo before the adorable little kid’s smile?). They will date a photo quickly too.
• While trying to stay current and fashionable, do avoid obvious trends that will be dated soon. You can do fashion forward while still remaining timeless.
• Don't forget to coordinate your feet. A pair of beat up sneakers doesn't work with moms fantastic leopard pumps. Shoes can make or break a photo.
• Make sure you remove items that you don't want in the photo. Cell phones, lipstick, wallets etc. often end up in pockets and distract from the photo.
These are all guidelines to get you looking your best for your family photo. Ultimately you want to show your family's personal style. Wear what "works" for you:)
For some inspiration check out my PINTEREST page.