What to Wear for Your Family Portrait Session: A Complete Guide
Planning outfits for your family portrait session can feel daunting, but it doesn’t have to be! This guide breaks it all down into actionable tips that will leave you feeling confident and ready to create timeless, polished photos. Let’s dive in!
Why Outfits Matter
What you wear plays a big role in the overall success of your family portrait session. The right outfits can enhance your photos by complementing the location, capturing your family’s personality, and ensuring everyone looks their best.
Actionable Tips for Selecting Outfits
1. Pick a Color Palette
Choose 2-3 main colors that complement each other and your surroundings.
Best for Colorado: Earthy tones (sage, cream, rust) or muted jewel tones.
Avoid bright neon shades and busy prints.
2. Coordinate, Don’t Match
Instead of identical outfits, go for complementary ones.
Example: Mom in a flowy cream dress, dad in a sage sweater, and kids with accents like plaid or mustard yellow.
3. Keep It Comfortable
Clothes should allow everyone to move freely.
Prioritize soft fabrics for kids to keep them happy during the session.
4. Add Texture with Layers and Accessories
Layers like scarves, cardigans, or hats create depth.
Accessories such as necklaces or textured belts add personality.
5. Dress for the Season
Spring: Pastels and flowy materials.
Summer: Light, breathable fabrics in soft hues.
Fall: Cozy knits and warm, earthy tones.
Winter: Bold reds or greens with textured outerwear.
FAQs About Family Portrait Wardrobes
What Should We Avoid?
Busy patterns or large logos that pull focus from your faces.
Ill-fitting clothes that require constant adjustment.
How Do We Match Our Outfits to the Setting?
Mountain Backdrops: Neutral, cozy tones like creams and soft browns.
Urban Locations: Sleek, modern outfits in monochromatic or jewel tones.
Fields and Parks: Flowing dresses and soft textures that catch the light.
Should We Bring Extra Outfits?
Yes! A backup look can be helpful, especially with young kids who might have accidents or spills.
Pro Tips From a Denver Photographer
Plan Ahead: Lay out outfits days before the session to check for wrinkles or missing pieces.
Consult Your Photographer: I’m always happy to help you refine your wardrobe choices.
Be Yourself: Embrace your family’s unique style—genuine moments always stand out!
Your outfits are an essential part of telling your family’s story through portraits. They set the tone for the session and enhance the overall look and feel of your images, helping to create timeless memories you’ll cherish forever. By following these tips, you’ll create a look that feels natural, cohesive, and perfectly 'you,' ensuring your family’s true essence shines through in every photo.