Preparing for your family photography session can be stressful enough as it is without worrying about what everyone is going to wear. I've put together this guide with some suggestions to keep in mind as you're planning your wardrobe so you and your family look your absolute best for your photo session.
Color
The key is to be coordinated, but not matching. Aim for two or three main colors and/or an accent color for your session. Primary colors always look great on camera. All shades of blue, red, and yellow really pop (think navy, burgundy, mustard yellow), especially if you're in an area with lots of greenery. For a beach setting softer colors are beautiful. Mixing in some neutrals works well too, but stay away from a lot of white as it can wash people out. Also, don't be afraid to mix stripes and plaids with solids. It makes the photo more playful and less uniform.
Please don't wear fluorescent or neon colors as they can reflect onto skin and faces and tend to pull focus away from faces. And avoid anything with logos, graphics, characters, or labels. These are distracting and can date a photo quickly.
Comfort
Please dress in clothing that makes you feel comfortable and in which you can move freely. If you feel great in what you're wearing, your ease and confidence will show on camera. And likewise, if the kids have itchy sweaters or scratchy tags, they'll be less likely to cooperate.
It's also important to consider the weather. In Seattle it's no surprise that it's often wet. Layers are great to keep everyone warm and dry and adding scarves, jackets, sweaters and blazers also adds depth and dimension to photos.
Coordination
Can we talk about shoes for a minute? (I mean really, who doesn’t like talking about shoes.) Here's the thing. Footwear is an important part of your wardrobe but it can easily be overlooked. Again, the thing is to keep everyone looking coordinated. I have a friend whose toddler is so in love with his Paw Patrol sneakers. But if the rest of the family is wearing boots and oxfords those sneakers are going to stick out like a sore thumb in the photos. In this case, I'd suggest that we take a few photos in those darling sneakers. As a mom I'd want to remember that detail forever. Then change into another pair of shoes for the rest of the photos. Classic sneakers like Converse or Vans generally work well for kids and look great in photos too.
Also, make sure everyone's shoes are comfortable enough to walk in. For moms, if you want a heel, wedge heels are relatively comfortable to walk in and do well on grass. Boots are always a good choice too.
Children
Here's a final few tips specific to kids that didn't fit into the categories above.
No bright white socks (actually, this goes for adults too)
If in doubt, something timeless and classic always works
Don't dress the kids in clothing that is too big. I know it can be tempting to buy something new that has a little room to grow but it just doesn't work in photos.
Comfort is key! Kids are relaxed and act more naturally if they feel good
Dress them in something that lets their personality shine through