AVOID LARGE PATTERNS! LARGE PATTERNS CAN OVERWHELM AN IMAGE AND I PROMISE YOU, YOU WANT THE FOCUS TO BE ON THE FACES.
Smaller patterns are great and can really pull a family outfit together. Layers, texture and neutrals are a much more pleasing to the eye and they create a warmer image.
DON”T WEAR CLOTHES THAT FIT POORLY! THIS MAY SEEM OBVIOUS, BUT IT DOES HAPPEN.
Moms- don’t wear shirts that don’t fit right in the chest. If they are too small it will cause gaping between buttons. If a top is too loose, or has too large of a neckline it will expose the bra strap. Don’t wear a shirt or dress with a low neckline. Remember the kids will be cuddling and playing with you. The last thing you want to do is be constantly adjusting your clothes! Dads- don’t wear shirts that are too short for your torso. Dads should expect to be playing and swinging the kids . If your shirt lifts way above your belly when you raise your arms, it’s probably not the look you are going for.
DON’T WEAR UNCOMFORTABLE SHOES! OUR SESSION WILL BE BUSY, WE’LL BE WALKING AND ON THE MOVE.
Many locations are in fields or the beach where the ground is not level. I want you to have the freedom to run and play with your children. Forego the wedges and go for something cute and comfortable.
CHOOSE COORDINATING COLORS, NOT MATCHING.
Knowing what colors to wear for family photos can be tricky. Start off with colors that coordinate well. You can accomplish a cohesive look without every family member wearing the exact same outfit. In fact, that can seem overly-matching. By selecting a color scheme and using hues that complement each other, you can achieve a more natural look across the board. Pick two main colors and then add softer tones to accent and complete your color scheme.
DON’T WEAR SHORT SKIRTS OR DRESSES! BUT HEY, WHO DOESN’T LOVE A CUTE SUNDRESS IN THE SUMMER, RIGHT?
But keep in mind when we transition to sitting shots, how will it feel with a child or two on your lap? If you wear a short dress or skirt choose something flowy so that you can adjust it around your legs when you sit.
AVOID HEADBANDS AND LARGE BOWS FOR SMALL CHILDREN! KNOW THAT THEY ARE CUTE, BUT WHATEVER THE AGE OF THE CHILD THEY TEND TO SLIDE DOWN.
Remember we will be playing, tickling and cuddling. I’m sure you’ll grow tired of adjusting the sliding down headband. If you child’s hair needs to be pulled back choose an elastic band instead.
DON’T WEAR COATS WITH THE INTENT TO TAKE THEM OFF! IF IT IS COLD OUTSIDE, DRESS ACCORDINGLY.
Cold kids aren’t happy kids. Putting a coat on and off will ultimately result in a cold child.
Instead, dress in layers and keep those little ones happy.
DON’T WEAR NEON OR BRIGHT COLORS! THOSE COLORS CAN CAST ONTO THE SKIN.
I’m not saying that I don’t love a little pop of color, because I certainly do. However, muted colors and earth tones look better on camera and are more flattering for skin tones. Of course we don’t want the attention drawn to some bright piece of clothing.
DON’T WEAR BASEBALL HATS OR FLOPPY HATS THAT COVER YOUR EYES!
I understand if that is your style, but choose an alternate (like a beanie) that allows the light to fall on your face. And bring the baseball hat for a few shots at the end.
DON’T HAVE YOUR CELL PHONE AND KEYS IN YOUR POCKETS! I GET IT, WE ALL CARRY OUR PHONES WITH US.
But consider leaving it in the car. It will show through your pants and you’ll have to remove it each time or I’ll be happy to throw them in my bag during our shoot.
DON’T FORGET THE BIKE SHORTS OR DIAPER COVER!
If your daughter is wearing a skirt or dress make sure to cover up the diaper or underwear. Remember we’ll be playing, swinging and tickling. Little girls probably don’t care, but you most likely will.
AVOID WEARING LOTIONS
Lotions tend to attract dirt, making it hard to keep your legs and arms clean. You may be on the ground with your children.
AND LASTLY, DON’T BE SOMEONE YOU’RE NOT!
You will look and feel uncomfortable if you aren’t dressing for yourselves. Wear what speaks to you, what you feel good in and what makes you comfortable. After all this is YOUR