Family Style Guide
Hi there!
I’ve created this style guide to help you get the most out of your photos, and by the time you’ve read through this, you'll have all your questions answered and feel more than ready and prepared for your session. Then I’ll take care of the rest! Your only job is to be yourself, laugh a lot and let me create photos you’ll love forever. I can’t wait to get you and your family in front of my camera!
I photograph family sessions using only natural light. I do this because this type of light makes for some stunning photographs. I begin all portrait sessions approximately one hour before the scheduled sunset during “the golden hour,” when the light is the dreamiest.
Choose your palette first.
Pick a palette of 3-4 colors. Neutrals will be your best friend! Let this be your starting place. Think in terms of tones: blue tones, earth tones, neutrals, pastels, even some deep earthy colors like orange and maroon etc. Everyone in the family can express their own sense of style within the chosen color palette, and the whole group will coordinate beautifully.
Don’t Match. Coordinate.
Try to coordinate, not match, when deciding what to wear for photos. Start with the youngest and pull colors from their outfit to dress and layer everyone else. Layering can make a huge difference in tying in all the colors.
Choose neutral clothing
I suggest wearing any combination of cream, gray, and tan. It is pretty hard to mess that up and looks good in almost every setting, especially dried-grass fields which are readily available in the fall. The result is a monochromatic look that I love. The soft neutrals always bring the focus back to the people in the photos. This timeless look is easy to pull together, and (bonus!) dads love looking comfortable and not all dressed up.
Add a pop of color.
My work is filled with joy and happiness so adding cheerful colors to the mix can complement the mood so well! Try to pick only one or two happy colors and use some neutral details (white or grey) to tame them a bit. You don’t have to go overboard, but picking up bold colors from a more subtle outfit for a pop of color can look amazing. For example, if dad is wearing a plaid shirt, draw one color from it and have one child wear a pop of that color.
Keep comfort first.
For my family sessions, I want to have a lot of it based on movement and playful behavior. A mom in a tight short skirt and high heels is less likely to play wildly with her kids or get messy, so try to think about being comfortable first. Pick the clothes that will let you run freely and be blissfully carefree!
*Quick Tip: If you do want to wear some shoes with a heel, bring a pair of easy-to- kick-off flats to wear when moving from place to place in between photos. Your feet will thank you later!
Favorite places to shop for:
LADIES: Baltic Born, LuLus, Free People
If you’re running short on time for ordering something, Amazon is a life saver and has great outfit options for the whole family!