I completely understand the anxiety that comes with trying to figure out what the heck to wear an upcoming photo session! It can be so completely overwhelming to figure out what you should wear and which store to buy it from (do they even have it in stock?). Add to that the task of coordinating your outfit with your significant other, your child(ren) and/or extended family - and it can be even more difficult to figure things out.
But don't fret! Here are a few tips from yours truly that will (hopefully) make things a little easier on you.
Choose Your Color Palette
If you take any advice from me, start with this: always, always, always figure out your color palette first! To do this, you will want to keep a few things in mind:
The Season
In this case, we are talking about Spring, so you will want to choose one to two colors (max) that compliment this time of year. I, personally, tend to go for a palette that compliments all of the gorgeous greens that tend to pop up this time of year - pink, peach, coral and lilac are perfect options for this. Not in to wearing pastels? Navy and Burgundy are great alternatives.
If you prefer to go the neutral route - tans, grays and creams also photograph well in Spring. One caveat to this is that you will want to make sure to use a variety of layers and textures among your family members. You will also want to make sure that at least two people are wearing darker shades (i.e. camel, dark tan, charcoal) - otherwise, your photos will lack the necessary contrast needed to prevent your photos from being too flat from all of the white/ivory/cream shades.
Your Skin Tone
Do you know whether your skin is considered warm, cool or neutral? No? Simply walk over to your closest window, turn your wrist over and look at your veins. Typically, your veins will appear to be: blue (cool), olive/green (warm) or blue-green/purple (neutral). Now that you know that, you will have a much easier time trying to figure out which palette will look best ON you!
Here are a few options for Spring palettes:
Once you choose a palette, then you will want to add in your neutrals (i.e. layers, accessories, etc.)! They help pull different shades and patterns come together within your palette, which prevents everyone from looking super matchy-matchy.
Add Textures & Patterns
When in doubt, always choose your textures and patterns that highlight each INDIVIDUALS own unique style and make sure that they are dressed in things they would choose to wear themself (i.e. it's comfortable). The last thing you want to do is put your son a nice dress shirt and cowboy boots, only for him to end up running around barefoot in his undershirt, because he got too hot. Just saying.
When it comes to fabrics, cotton is always going to be my number one recommendation. It is comfy, photographs well and it's (usually) machine washable. It also will not irritate your skin, like some fabrics might, so won't have to worry about anyone itching their skin or readjusting their clothes every 10-seconds.
Speaking of uncomfortable fabrics, a few that you should avoid all together for this photo shoot: rayon, silk and polyester. Basically anything that is too shiny, as it tends to be the most unflattering - sticking to problem areas, adding folds where you probably don't want them, catching light at bad eye-catching angles, etc. It's also a good idea to skip tulle underskirts. Opt for fabrics that have more of a matte texture and dresses that are more flowy (i.e. easy to twirl in).
And for the love of all that is holy - do NOT match! I know it sounds counterintuitive, but trust me, you want to add variety and depth to your portraits by incorporating different styles, textures and patterns. Add a cute cardigan or a fun jacket, throw a scarf or sun hat into the mix, or maybe even wear a knitted maxi skirt (if you are blessed enough to be able to flaunt one) - anything that helps the overall asthetic of your portraits seem more cohesive and natural. Just make sure your neutrals balance out any bold patterns.
Accessorize
When it comes to accessories, I only have two words for you: Simple and Practical. Think of accessories as the sprinkles on top of a cake. Use them to pull together the colors that you have chosen, while also providing an extra layer of texture and depth to your photos.
The thing I like most about accessories is that they often tend to help us show off a part of who we are as individuals. I gave a few ideas above for things adults could potentially use as accessories. For boys, this could look like a fancy bow tie or a ball cap. For girls, it could be a tiara or their favorite pair of rain boots. If it is special to them and makes them smile - I say, just let them wear it.
And don't forget about your shoes! If you are going to be outside and/or going to be walking any amount of distance, be sure to wear shoes that will allow you to do both comfortably. For instance, if you want to wear high heels, consider bringing a spare pair of flats with you that you can wear between locations, that way you don't chance twisting an ankle or developing insane blisters.
Pull It All Together
Here are a few sample palette's to get you started! Hopefully, there is at least one that catches your eye and helps you get inspired for your upcoming Spring Portraits. I can't wait to see what you come up with!
