1. SEASON

Before you even begin contemplating outfits consider the season and weather. Dressing appropriately will ensure that everyone is comfortable because nothing is worse than being uncomfortable in the perfect outfit. Summer outfits will layer with hair accessories, jewelry, hats, ties/bowties. Whereas winter outfits will layer with coats/jackets, hats/beanies, scarves, and gloves.

2. LOCATION

Then consider your location. Will you be dressed up downtown or hiking in the mountains? Your location matters a lot as you choose your outfits. For example heels are appropriate for an urban location but less practical on an uneven trail.

3. COLOR

Once you’ve selected the season and location of your family portrait session. Choose three colors that complement the season and location. One of these can be a vivid pop of color. For example outdoor sessions taking place in the spring or summer sessions will often have green in the background. Therefore, be mindful of colors schemes that coordinate well with green foliage.

Fall/Winter – blush, berry, burgundy, burnt orange, forest green, hunter green, indigo, maroon, mustard, navy, peach, sage, slate blue.

Spring/Summer – aqua, blue, coral, forest green, green, lavender, navy, pink, purple, orange, salmon, teal, turquoise, yellow.

Neutrals – beige, grey, ivory, tan.

4. PATTERNS, TEXTURES & SHADES

In moderation patterns and/or textures can add visual interest to your photos. And solid colors work best.

Pattern: simple stripes, floral and polka-dot patterns.

Texture: lace, cable knits, chambray, tweed, herringbone, chambray, faux fur and wool.

Shades: use different shades from the colors you picked to add depth. For example if one of your dominate colors you choose is blue select different shades of blue.

5. COORDINATE

The goal is of coordinating is to visually mix up colors and shades so that outfits are diverse in tops and bottoms. Find outfits that compliment each other and coordinate well together. If selecting outfits for everyone becomes overwhelming I recommend starting with mom and/or daughter. Since female clothing tends to have more color schemes and prints.

Don’t forget about shoes or boots! These are often the last element but are very important. Your shoe choice does make a difference.

6. MODEL

I highly recommend trying on and modeling your outfits well in advance. You’ll want to make sure every family member can move comfortably in their outfits because during your session there will be a lot of walking, running, spinning, tickling, flying, swinging, and hanging upside down. Also let your kids have an input too. If your daughter hates dress or your son loathes hats, ditch it! Comfortable and happy kids make for easier sessions.

7. BE YOURSELF

Lastly, the biggest piece of advice I can offer you is just be yourself and be comfortable! Please don’t feel like you need to go out and buy new outfits that you’ll only wear once. Instead starting out in your own closet to find an outfit first. If you still feel like you need to buy a new outfit purchase clothing and accessories that already fits your style. Choose clothing that gives you the freedom of movement, keeps you cool/warm, and won’t require a lot of maintenance.