What to Wear

Be Comfortable

Always wear clothes that you will be comfortable in and can move around in. Make sure that your clothing flatters your body and you feel confident wearing it. Ideally, your choice of clothing should stand out against the backdrop of the selected location.

Don't Match

The key to looking timeless as a family or couple is to coordinate your clothing choices, but not match them. You should complement each other in terms of color - and selecting a color theme is one of the best ways to accomplish this easily. Go with 2-3 bright colors and offset them with a few neutrals, select a pastel color palette, or wear simple cream or gray with pops of color. Each family member should carry through their own style and really express their personality with their clothing choices. I find it easiest to achieve a coordinated look if I start with one patterned/print piece and then pull coordinating colors from it.  

Layers, Accessories & Textures

Layering and using textures are very important. Adding a scarf, a knit cardigan, hat, or jewelry is one of the best ways to add color, individuality, and interest to your portrait. Textures in particular add an incredible amount of visual interest to pictures and especially look great in black and white.

Patterns Are OK!

There's nothing wrong with wearing patterns and stripes. Just make sure they go with the color theme you select and include plenty of neutrals to carry them through. Pair small patterns or big stripes with some textured pieces and you're set!

Think About Your Shoes

Don't ignore what goes on your feet. This is the best area to get creative - leather boots, red ballet slippers, sequined Toms, ... all look better than sneakers and add loads of personality to your photos.

Coordinate With Room Colors

If you have a specific idea about where your portrait will go, look around the room and coordinate what you wear to your choice of interior decor. It doesn't need to be an exact match just to look right in the space.

Still not sure? View examples of suggested styles and color palettes on this Pinterest board for maternity and family inspiration. And remember each session includes the option to consult with me on session styling!