We’re all booked and ready to go and now the age old question- what should we wear? Here are a few tips as you prepare for your session.

1. Start with the most difficult person to style

There is usually one person in the family who has either strong personal tastes- or may be a little more difficult to style for whatever reason. For example, a few years ago, that was me! I started by planning my own outfit and then we built the rest of the family’s outfits from there. This year, with a teenager, they have very strong opinions, so we started there.

Our family portrait by Autumn Skye, 2020.

2. Coordinate, don’t match

While coordinating outfits is essential, avoid dressing everyone in identical outfits. Instead, go for a harmonious color scheme or theme that complements each other's attire. This allows individual personalities to shine through and adds visual interest to your photos. If you are having a hard time choosing colors, choose ONE patterned piece- this could be a shirt, dress, scarf, etc. Pull the colors for all other pieces from this pattern.

Opt for classic, timeless pieces that won't look outdated in a few years.

3. Consider the background

Modern Studio (morning sessions) - The modern studio has two looks- North Star and Winter Ice. North Star is mainly emerald green and gold. Winter Ice is more white/silver/evergreen.

Colors that will look nice for morning sessions include: Plum, maroon, gold, camel, ivory, warm neutrals. I would avoid green, navy blue, and classic red.

Traditional Studio (afternoon sessions) - The traditional studio will be decorated with a Christmas tree, greenery, timeless holiday decor, and has a camel colored couch.

Colors that will look nice for afternoon sessions include: jewel tones, warm neutrals. I would avoid bright white, black, and classic red.

4. Play with textures & layers

Layering can add depth and texture to your holiday studio session. Consider wearing sweaters, cardigans, scarves, or shawls. Layers not only keep you warm but also provide opportunities for creative styling and posing. Textures add some visual interest to your photos. Examples include chunky knits, tweed, denim, and wool.

5. Dress for your personality

While embracing the holiday theme is important, don't forget to let your personality shine through. If you have a quirky or unique sense of style, feel free to incorporate that into your outfit to make your photos uniquely "you."

Embrace individuality! Instead of forcing kiddos to conform, embrace their individual flair! Less stress and the kids will be happier. For our own family photos, this meant letting my son wear his “comfy pants” as opposed to khakis or jeans.

6. Keep comfort in mind

The key to a successful photoshoot is comfort. Make sure you can move freely in your chosen attire, as your session will involve sitting, standing, and some playful prompts with your kids.

7. Footwear

After all this planning, don’t forget the footwear! Shoes don’t have to be fancy or expensive, but do consider how your footwear complements your outfit.

8. Be festive but avoid overdoing it

While it's important to embrace the holiday spirit, remember that subtlety can go a long way. Avoid over-the-top outfits that may distract from the people in the photos.

9. Test outfits in advance

Before the big day, try on your chosen outfits and see how they look together. This will help you identify any wardrobe clashes or issues before the photoshoot. If you have any questions at all, throw your outfit choices on your bed, take a photo, and text me! We can talk through options together.

Headshot by Madison Noel Photography

Here are my top 5 things to avoid:

Multiple patterns
Solid black and solid white tops
Too many colors/ clashing colors
Shirts with lots of graphics, logos, or writing
Lots of classic red
Overall, I’m here for you! Don’t hesitate to email or text with any questions you may have. I’m looking forward to seeing you!

-Tracey