The question “What do I wear?” is something I hear ALL the time, so I’ve decided to make a post about what to wear for your photo session! Whether you’re having an engagement session or family photo session, many of the same rules apply.
1. Wear clothes that make you feel like yourself
First things first, when thinking about what to wear for your photo session, ensure you are dressing in something you’re comfortable in! If you’re a jeans and t-shirt kind of person, I don’t recommend wearing a ballgown to your photo shoot. Wearing something that you don’t feel comfortable in can result in feeling awkward, which usually shines through in the photos. Wear something that feels like you. After all, the most important thing in your photos is that you have a genuine connection with your family or partner.
2. Coordinate, rather than matching
Find a way to coordinate without matching completely. Remember that you don’t have to wear exactly the same colour – the same colour palate works well (different tones of the same colour). Another important thing is the style of the clothing. If one person is dressed to the nines, the others shouldn’t show up in a ball-cap. Try to keep it consistent.
3. Choose from a colour pallet: choose pastels, cools, and neutrals
Choosing a colour theme for a photo session can seem like a daunting task. My advice is to stick to a few neutral colours for you and your family or partner. Stay away from too many bright colours as the base, and save those for accents (mentioned below). This will keep your photos looking more timeless, which in my opinion is a really beautiful thing.
4. Accessorize
Accessories are a great way to jazz up an otherwise plain outfit. This could be shoes, scarves, jewellery, etc; or you could accessorize in the way of props. A picnic blanket and wine glasses is a super cute prop, and doubles as a way to loosen you up a little for the shoot! Other props like bicycles, vintage cars, musical instruments, or other items that have meaning to you are always fun to incorporate.
5. Don’t be afraid of colour
I know I mentioned earlier to keep things cool and neutral, but an accent colour pop photographs so well! Especially if one (or more) family members are wearing neutral colours, don’t be shy to bust out a bright skirt or top. It will be a great focal point in your photo session.
7. Location
Although not directly related to your outfit, the location is also a very important aspect of your photo session. I usually try to encourage couples and families to choose a location that is special to them. Whether it’s a favourite beach or cafe you love to spend time at, it adds a personal touch to the photos.
7. Have fun!
Last but not least, is to remember to have fun at your session. Focus on you and your family or partner, and make this about what makes you special! Don’t try to recreate someone else’s Pinterest board. Hang out and interact with each other the way you normally do. It’ll be fun, I promise 🙂
