More than any other question, my clients want to know what they should wear to their family portrait session. What you wear sets the tone for your images, so choosing your outfits can feel like a daunting task. I am here to help and make things a little easier for you.
While every session is different, there are a few tried and true tips that will make it easy to plan your family's wardrobe for your next session.
1. BE PREPARED
This is not a day-of-the-session type of decision – trust me! I recommend starting with mum / mum-to-be's outfit and then building the rest of the family's wardrobe around what she's wearing.
Lay all of the outfits out together; it will be apparent if there is a piece that doesn't belong.
Your family should not match exactly, but keep your clothing in the same tonal range.
2. ASK FOR HELP
My clients often message or email me images while they are going through their closets or out shopping. I am happy to give advice and help you come to a cohesive look. I also have some Pinterest pages for inspiration.
3. BORROW FROM MY CLIENT WARDROBE
Check out my growing collection of gorgeous, floaty dresses for mamas and sweet options for your little ones. These clothing items are complimentary to borrow for any of my sessions. A pre-session consultation can be arranged to try on dresses.
4. MAKE-UP & HAIR
If hair and make-up are not your thing, I recommend booking a hair and make-up appointment prior to your session. It's not every day that you invest in a photo session for you and your family. The right foundation will allow light to reflect beautifully off your skin and give you a dewy, more polished look. You will want to avoid a foundation that makes your skin look 'orange' or different to your neck, shoulders and arms.
A touch a lipstick, tidied eyebrows and blush do wonders! Be sure to bring some lip gloss or lipstick with you for touch ups as there may be lots of smooches from your partner and little ones.
5. TEXURES AND PATTERNS
Textures are one of the best ways to add variety to your outfit. Think lace, crochet knits, and embroidered fabrics – the possibilities are endless. Patterns and prints work well in moderation and can add some interest if used selectively. When choosing patterns, look for small simple patterns in soft or neutral colours.
6. ACCESSORIES
You can really play up an outfit and add personality and interest to your portraits with accessories but keep it simple so that they don't draw all the attention. Hats are my favourite accessory for a bit of variety.
7. FAMILY SESSION CHECKLIST
Save date, time and location
Choose your outfit
Schedule hair and makeup appointments if desired
Review guide for style tips
Pack a bag with:
Flats or flip-flops for walking between photo spots (if you wear heels)
Second outfit (if you’re doing two)
Touch-up makeup
Water bottle
Coat or wrap (colder weather)
Snack for little ones
If you have a toddler, a small eye-catching toy to hold their attention