Hey friends! If you're wondering what to wear for your family photos, I’ve got you. The goal is simple: coordinate without matching, choose pieces you feel confident in, and keep the focus on you, not the clothes. Think soft, timeless colors, layers, and textures that play well together. Aim for outfits that make you feel like the best, polished version of your everyday selves. When you feel good, it shows — and that’s what makes the photos magic.
Tips on dressing the Women in the family:
• First, choose a palette of 3-4 colors for your family. If you're unsure of what looks best on all of you, I can help or just go cream, gray, tans, and/or neutrals.
• Secondly, don't stray too far from your personal style. You'll ideally want a glam version of you.
• Third, don't have the whole family too "matchy".
• Say Yes to the Dress. Dresses and skirts look most stunning because they really flatter every female body, especially on camera — which is probably why the red carpet is always full of so many dresses and not very many pantsuits! Remember though, these are just recommendations.
• Long, full-length, flowy dresses and skirts. These look amazing on camera because they bring extra movement to the photos. Especially when juxtaposed with nature, like a park or the beach. Consider softer fabrics which allow for beautiful movement in your images. Also, skirts and dresses tend to elongate legs.
• Add accessories. They add a lot of pop! If you have a favorite jacket or scarf, bring it!
• Solid colors tend to work best. They leave the focus on YOU. Stay away from neon colors as they cast shades of color on your face. If you have dark hair, stay away from dark tops as your hair tends to blend in.
• Dress for the location. Don't wear anything too tight or too short as you'll be moving around.
• Layer, layer, layer! Layering creates depth and can give you different looks.
• Sleeves. Three-quarter length sleeves create an awesome slimming effect on all arms, so be on the lookout for an option with a longer length sleeve. You could also bring a cute jacket, blazer or cardigan along, too. Skinny straps or strapless dresses have the opposite effect on arms on camera, so I recommend avoiding those whenever possible if your goal is a set of slimmer-looking arms.
• Give your outfit a test run. Make sure you can move around with ease. Make sure you feel great in the outfit because if you don't, you will see it in the photographs. Snap a couple of pics of yourself to make sure you like what you see.
• Avoid logos, tube tops, and low-cut shirts.
Hair and Makeup:
• Think about having your hair and makeup done. You will love what being pampered brings to the portraits.
• If you get your hair/makeup done, you will want to wear a button down shirt so that it slips effortlessly over your head when you change into your session outfit.
• If you don't like a lot of makeup, have them do a "natural" look. If you like glam, lashes always add a pop if you choose to wear them.
• Pick a lipstick or lipgloss color that will work with your outfit(s). Even if you don't wear lipstick/gloss in your day to day life, wear it for your session. You'll be surprised how much of a difference it makes. And, BRING YOUR LIP COLOR TO THE SESSION. You'll want to bring makeup to touch up with as well.
• Very Important: Don't try dramatic, new hairstyles or cuts before your session. Sleek hair and romantic waves photograph really well. *Be sure to bring your brush to the session.
• No spray tans. Your normal skin tone will look fantastic in the photographs.
• CLEAN nails. A pretty coat of paint or none at all.
• Shape your brows. Either have them done or clean them up. They really make your eyes pop when well groomed!
Tips for dressing the Men in the group:
• Long, fitted pants and closed-toed shoes are the most sophisticated and masculine looks for men. They draw attention away from his legs and feet and place it where you want it: on his handsome face.
• It's best to avoid clothing with neon and logos. It takes away from you.
• Graphics can work. For example, if you are really into music, then a tee with your favorite band logo is great. As long as graphics are part of "you" and what you would normally wear.
• Layered Looks. Layers on men look great on camera, so even when it’s hot outside, trust me when I say that it’s worth an hour or two of discomfort for photos that will last you both a lifetime. Layers will bring extra dimension and visual interest to your photos. Blazers, vests and coats up the level of any look.
• It’s All in the Details. Brown leather dress shoes complement almost every look, whether he’s wearing a full suit or a blazer and colored pants. Ties, bowties, pocket squares, colored socks, belts, tie clips, suspenders, vests and watches are sharp compliments to any outfit for men and boys alike.
If you want a deeper dive with examples and extra tips, you can read more on the blog. (https://www.robynschererphotography.com/post/my-family-photo-outfit-planning-tips)