Wardrobe Do's & Dont's

       When you book family portraits you are making an investment, creating a lasting memory, and boosting your overall happiness. So why not make the very best of your session by making sure your families wardrobe choices are top of the line. I always start by letting clients know that family portraits are a special occasion, and you should dress as such.. whether you choose business casual, Sundays best or even black tie. These are photos to be passed down through the generations.

    For some people trying to coordinate colors and patterns in clothing seems like such an overwhelming task, but to me its exciting and fun. Its honestly my favorite part of booking my own family portraits, and so I have decided to help make your life a little easier with these fool proof tips!

​       So let's start with a do's and don'ts list.
DO
*Pick solid colors, or more mellow patterns. So what I mean is pick a solid shirt with little to no graphics or branding. Pick a floral dress that's subtle, and keep the different patterns to a minimum. While your outfit should stand out, it shouldn't be the first thing you notice.

*Think about layers and textures. They show through in your photos more than you realize. A little boy in corduroy khakis with an a button down shirt and vest looks more thought out than jean's and a Tee. Scarves, layering boots and leggings, vests, cardigans, and a nice statement necklace are a great way to add texture and layers in the fall. While adding a belt to your dress, or a fashionable hat, rolled up sleeves and suspenders are great for spring.

*Pick outfits that flatter your shape. If you have to pull down your top to feel great, skip it! A nice structured shirt in a light color will flatter you more than a plain black tee (contrary to popular believe that just wearing dark will make you look slimmer)

*Find a color palate and stick to it. I suggest picking a neutral to start with. Cream, brown, grey..... and then pick a color pop you like. In spring in summer you would want to pick more bright and cool colors while in the fall you would pick more deep, warm colors. If you need help use a color wheel, and choose the color directly across the wheel from your pop color to add more contrast. They will compliment each other well.

*Not everyone has to wear every color in your palate. We are going for coordinating not matching.

*Most importantly make sure everyone is comfortable. Let's not stuff little Joey into a button down, and bow tie if he absolutely hates it.. we want everyone to be able to move freely in their clothes and feel confident, it will shine through in your photos.

DON'TS
*Dress everyone in crazy patterns, and try to avoid stripes.

*Dress everyone in the exact same outfit.

*Don't wear all white shirts, especially if you are doing your photo session in bright light.

*Wear loud and obnoxious sneakers. You will look back on your photos and regret it.


       Now please don't be worried or scared off about these tips. They are not iron clad laws to live by. They are guidelines to help you. The most important thing is that you are comfortable, natural and overall happy with what you chose.

       I always try to pick things I already have in our closets, and only end up buying a new piece or two. If you are going to go buy all new I suggest you shop at the same store for every family member. Kohls, Old Navy, and other similar stores carry many different options within the same color scheme.

      Pinterest is a great place to get ideas. You can find a million different coordinated outfits, color palate ideas for every season and feel, although to many options can get overwhelming.. I like to find a color palate or two and then head to my closet to see what I can come up with there first! Lay everything out where you can see each outfit together and change up the things you aren't in love with. If in doubt feel free to send me a photo.. Honestly I love helping you pick items that look great together, and make you feel amazing.

       Now that the hard part is done, you can relax, show up stress free and enjoy your family portrait session with Ela Photography by Kaylynne..

                                             See ya soon,
                                                       Kaylynne Sims