Clothing selection for your photo shoot can feel daunting, but it doesn’t need to feel that way with a little thoughtful planning. The goal is to feel coordinated and timeless and suit your personality and decor. Let’s plan together!
Start With a Color Palette
There is no need for everyone to wear the same color. Consider choosing a palette of 3–4 coordinating tones. I provide color palette ideas during our session planning time. The idea is to create visual cohesion without needing to match.
Tip – Build your color palette around one perfect outfit. Bonus points if it’s Mom’s outfit!
Solid Colors Bring Attention to the Face
Mix various textures – denim, knits, linen, cotton… These add interest and dimension to your portraits.. If a pattern is used, make sure that the pattern is small to avoid distracting from faces. Continue your palette with solid colors. Please be aware, should you choose to incorporate a pattern, it can become more difficult for me to merge images to incorporate the best facial expressions for each person.
Timeless Over Trendy
Timeless clothing always keeps your family portraits fresh looking. Think classic simple and clean. What will you still love on your walls many years down the road?
Have Clothing Make Sense with Your Location
Your environment plays a role with your clothing selection.
- Outdoors – consider browns, creams, blues, rust tones depending on the location and atmosphere of your portraits.
- Studio portraits can support a variety of looks, I have many backgrounds available and I will choose a selection based on your color palette.
Comfort Is Key
Choose comfortable clothing. If someone is uncomfortable, it will show in your images.
Layers Elevate the Look
Layers photograph well and add interest to your images. Consider jackets or blazers, cardigans and vests. Fabrics with different textures also add visual interest.
Consider the Finishing Touches
Pay attention to your shoes, hair and accessories.
Think neutral and simple when it comes to shoes and accessories. Hats can cast unwanted shadows and in most cases, I do not recommend them for your portraits.
Plan Clothing Ahead of Time – Lay Everything Out
To double check your selections, lay everything out on your bed. This makes it easier to see if your wardrobe is cohesive and can allow time to make modifications if needed ahead of time.
Clothing selection can help highlight your family’s natural connection and create images that you will always treasure!
Welcome to our fine art photography studio based in Algona, Iowa, specializing in creating custom, heirloom-quality wall portraits and albums designed to become treasured family keepsakes. Our studio focuses on providing a personalized, stress-free experience from planning to finished artwork. We specialize in family & children’s portraits. Come visit us in northwest Iowa or Contact Me for more information! Let’s have fun and create amazing art together!
