It's time for another rendition of Tips and Tricks. Today, I will be tackling probably the most frequently asked question I get as a photographer. What should we wear to our shoot? At first I was going to make this one post and include families, seniors, babies, and engagements. However, once I started, I realized that this is too large a topic to handle all at once. So, first I will address families and kiddos.
For some families, getting everyone dressed for a photo session is not difficult. However, it can be a major item of stress for a lot of families, and specifically moms. After all, these photos will be displayed in your home, in work places, grandparents will pack them around, and they might possibly be your Christmas card photos as well. Clothing choice for your family is definitely something that needs to be thought about and planned, but it doesn't need to end up ruining your photo session.
First, keep in mind that kids will be kids, and if they aren't comfortable they will probably end up being crabby, and I may not get to see your little one shine. So dress them in an outfit they love to wear. Even if it is their superman cape. They will be much more relaxed, and will have more fun if they like what they have on. (It is also a good idea to bring a spare change of clothes in case a little one ends up getting dirty or some other unforeseen event happens)
Next, don't be afraid of bright colors and prints. These little ladies pulled off prints and bright colors perfectly. However, don't over do it. Mom and dad wore solid colors that complimented their little ones.
Below, these two rocked the plaid. It works because the pattern matches so it allowed them to wear different colors, and once again it allowed mom and dad to wear complimentary solid colors.
Another thing that is very important is to match without being matchy-matchy. What I mean is to stick with colors that work together, but not everyone needs to wear the same color, or same colored shirt with jeans. Yes, it has been done, and a lot of people like it. However, I highly doubt that's how your family dresses in real life. You want these photos to be a reflection of your family. You want them to speak to you, and tug at your heart strings because your little sweetie was wearing her favorite dress at that age. If you are all wearing something generic, the photos might not have that affect on you. The photos might not end up looking like your family at all. They will look a little too much like a cookie cutter family that you've seen somewhere before, but isn't you.
The family below pulled off matching perfectly. However, to keep things interesting dad got to pick an outfit for the little man, and mom picked an outfit. Below is mom's choice, but what was great about that is that they have two totally different looks that will mean something to them both later.
Here is another example of matching without being too matchy-matchy. I love the mix of the argyle sweaters and Christmas dresses. Had everyone in this photo wore argyle sweaters, it might not have worked, but the solid dresses broke up the pattern, and says something about the little girls' personality. Plus it is such an unique and truly personal clothing choice that it fits this family perfectly.
Also, if you want to achieve a certain look for your photos, do not hesitate to visit with me beforehand. A few weeks ago, I took some photos of my cousin wanting them to have a vintage feel. I handpicked the dress for her to wear, and also did her hair. The result ends up being very timeless. These photos will stand the test of time for their simplicity and elegance. If you want to do something like this for your shoot, I highly encourage it. Also, if you want your images to be in black and white, talk to me before about your ideas. It works better if I plan on black and white images beforehand.
Lastly, if all else fails, choose black. I know I said not to all dress in the same color, but black is the exception. Just don't all wear the same outfit, mix it up. The black dress above has a quite different affect than jeans and black t-shirt does so don't be afraid to glam it up a bit. Black is the exception because it always looks classy, it is flattering, and it is perfect for black and white images. (I do not share this feeling about white because white just isn't as flattering as black)
Hopefully this helps. I am not an expert, and it's your shoot so most importantly, wear what you want! You are the one that has to look at the photos after all. :)