I have had a lot of recent requests for family sessions this summer and I’m loving it! Capturing those special moments with smiles, giggles, and watching the family grow over time is something I cherish as a photographer. Within a week, I shot five family sessions, which is a lot for this time of year! May and June have become a popular time of year for updated family portraits in Ohio. As a family photographer, I want to make sure that my clients have all of the resources they need in order for their session to be a success! This includes sending information leading up to the session such as location ideas, how to prep, and most definitely what to wear. My family outfit and inspiration guide is my foul proof formula for family sessions!

To gain some insight into what my family inspiration guide includes, here is a glimpse on what my clients receive when they book a session with me:

Start with the Season

Each family session is associated with its own colors, weather and landscapes depending on what season you are planning for portraits. Spring and summer can be bright and airy with light dresses and sandals, while fall and winter tend to have cozy layers and stylish accessories such as scarves and jackets. Think about what colors would look best at the location you have in mind for that time of year.

Always Be Comfortable

Make sure to always choose an outfit that you and your family feel comfortable wearing. This is important because if you or the children are uncomfortable, it will show in the images. Trust me! Choose outfits and shoes that the children like to wear and that are comfortable for them. Your children might be running or twirling during the session and they need to wear something that will move with them.

Compliment, Don’t Match!

Everyone’s outfit doesn’t have to match exactly! It’s actually better if you and your family coordinate their colors together. Start with your own inspiration outfit, pattern, or pick one color you absolutely love. Determine what accent colors work best with it and then formulate your family’s color palette. The palette will then guide everyone else’s outfits. Each person can have a different focal color. Try to limit patterns to one person. Any patterns that are smaller than a dime are hard to photograph.

If you want colorful images, you can choose a more vivid color scheme. In general, solids always work best. If you’re interested in neutral tones, then stick to everyone wearing light pinks, creams, light blues, tans, and white.

Be Sure to Accessorize

Be sure to finish your look with layers that complement your outfits. Consider adding a statement necklace, scarf, vest, belt, jacket, hat, suspenders, tie or bow tie. Simple, subtle touches and fabric textures add visual interest to your outfits and polish to your photos. If you’re planning a family session in the spring or summer, floppy hats add a fun element to your portraits. Accessories help enhance your family’s personality.

Don’t Forget Your Shoes

More often than not, shoes are the forgotten last element. However, they can really make or break your outfits! If you can’t find shoes you love, consider going barefoot. You can just bring matching shoes to get from one location to another. The kids’ clothes should work well in motion so that we can play during your session. I love for my families to dance, twirl, fly, and possibly hang upside down.

Some last minute reminders and mistakes to avoid:

• No neon, dark, or saturated colors
• No shaded glasses or sunglasses
• Keep patterns to a minimum of one person
• Avoid clothing with logos or text
• No see through outfits
• Make sure diapers are covered

With these easy steps, all of my clients have my foul proof formula for family sessions any time of the year! My calendar is becoming very busy as we start getting closer to the fall season. If you’re ready to document these precious years of your family, I’m ready to plan a session with you!