Family Session – What to Wear

The question I most often receive as a lifestyle family photographer is, what should we wear for our family session?

I recommend something that makes you to feel confident and comfortable!

I want to capture you and your family naturally, and in something that makes you feel beautiful. I encourage my clients to dress true to themselves and also what feels good!

When choosing your wardrobe, it is best to stay within a neutral, organic color palette if you want your images to look light and dreamy. My favorite colors to photograph are soft neutrals and earth tones.

If you want a pop of color or a statement dress that feels like artwork, go for it, and make sure the other outfits are a bit more muted so your combined clothing is not distracting from your beautiful interactions as a family. Colors that are too vibrant may reflect on skin.

Darker colors are encouraged only if they are muted in their brightness, such as mustard, emerald or merlot. Too many dark colors can cause shadowing and make your images appear dark.

Select prints and patterns that are minimal and soft. Look for solids that layer together, with details in the texture such as knits and linen. Mixing subtle patterns adds interest without looking too matchy.

Combine light plaids, soft floral prints, chunky knits and linens in a similar color pallet for the ultimate textural experience.

Layers in your outfits such as baby bonnets and sweaters, sweaters over shirts, hats, scarves and other accessories can be fun and change a look quickly. Flowing material that provides movement will make your images look especially dreamy!

Above all, keep in mind that simplicity is always more! Perfection is not the goal. The memories you are making with your family are most important. You should feel your best and be confident you look amazing while loving your people!

Some of my current favorite places to shop for sessions:

mothers: Doen, Free People, Faithfull the Brand, Zimmerman, Revolve, Baltic Born and Nothing Fits But

children: Fin & Vince, Nora Lee, Zara, Jamie Kay, Yaya & Lou

I really enjoy helping my clients to style their families. Together, we can come up with a custom mood board to curate a cohesive look for your family that feels true to you and coordinates beautifully together. Reach out for details about booking a session!

Follow along @rootedlovephotography for more inspo!!