The Ultimate Guide To Planning Outfits For Your Next Photo Session
So, you can’t seem to figure out what to wear for your engagement session? Or how to coordinate your family of 5? Trust me, you’re not alone! I’ve been asked several times, now, for tips on planning outfits for all sessions - engagements, families, anniversaries (obviously not weddings ;D), so I thought I’d put together what I’m calling The Ultimate Guide to Planning Outfits For Your Next Photo Session to help clear some confusion!
Choose your color palette!
Just like when decorating a room, it’s a good idea to have a few colors in mind when putting together your outfits for your session. It’s best to stick with 2-3 main colors so you don’t overwhelm or distract from the photos. Ultimately, we want YOU and your connection to shine through. Stick with natural, neutral colors (no neons and no logos!) and simple prints that won’t grab the eye. Mixing prints is always a great idea, but make sure the print sizes are varied (this important lesson comes from What Not to Wear on TLC!). Think small polka dots with thick stripes.
Compliment - don’t match!
If the white shirt with blue jeans look is what you’re going for, then by all means, do it! If you’re going for more of an artsy, varied combination of outfits, this tip is for you! You don’t HAVE to all be wearing the exact same colors or the same kinds of pants to look cohesive and put together. As long as you remember the first tip - to choose 2-3 colors - you’ll be golden! Or blue…depending on your palette. ;D
Layer and don’t be afraid to accessorize!
Layering helps give your outfits visual interest and depth. In summer months this may be more difficult, so adding accessories may work better. A belt or some fun heels are great ways to add some personality without adding excess clothing if it’s a hot day. In winter months add on a sweater or scarf with an interesting texture, a beanie, or ear muffs for some seasonal fun at your session. Along with layers, accessories add so much visual interest to your images! For babies, choosing a cute soother, a clean, pretty swaddle, and even a bow add immense interest to photos.
Keep location in mind.
Keep location in mind when choosing how fancy or casual you’d like to be. If your session is in a downtown type setting you may want to dress up or even go for a street style kind of vibe. If your session is in the country, casual outfits may be more appropriate. At the beach you may consider a sun dress or boat shoes.
Go for natural makeup.
Ultimately, we want you to look like YOU! If your usual style is to be super done up, go for it! But don’t choose a photo session to try a new smoky eye or wear false lashes if you’re super uncomfortable in them.
Be timeless!
If you follow current trends too closely you can date your images very very quickly. Think leg warmers and huge bell bottom jeans. There’s nothing inherently wrong with wanting to do something super trendy! We all love looking at photos from the 80s because of their crazy outfits! But, if you’re wanting a timeless look it’s best to think back to the first tip and stick with natural, neutral colors and simple pieces.
Optional: outfit changes.
Depending on the session you book you may be able to bring more than one outfit. If this is the case, you may want to do one outfit super fancy and one more casual. Or (if we will also be stopping at multiple locations) you may want a trendy outfit in the city, in an art museum, general urban settings and a casual outfit in a park, at home, etc.
If you’re more of a visual person I’ve put together a couple Pinterest boards:
Some of my favorite shops and boutiques:
For kiddos:
Gap and Old Navy - yes Gap and Old Navy! They have some great, simple pieces for kids and adults alike!
For mamas: