What to Wear and How to Prepare for your Family Photoshoot

Aug 15

You have a family session coming up, hurray! I know the planning of outfits can be stressful, so here are some tips that will hopefully help you out.

I also have information at the bottom to keep in mind as you prepare for your session. Please let me know if you have any questions and if there is anything I can do for you!

family of 4 on a white blanket in front of a tree

What to Wear

The most important element in deciding what to wear is comfort. I take a lot of candid shots, so you don’t want to be adjusting your clothing and you want to feel good in your clothes. Wear something you can sit, stand, walk, and move freely in.
Start with the pickiest dresser in the family first and work your way around that outfit.
Think about what the photos are going to be used for and plan the style and colors accordingly. If you plan on using it for your holiday cards, do you want holiday outfits and colors or Fall colors? That can differ based on which type of card template you plan on using. If you plan on hanging these photos on your walls, you may think about a more neutral palette or one that will go well with the colors in your home and your style.
If you prefer a light and airy look, I would recommend wearing neutral colors or light shades of colors to brighten the photos a bit.
For outdoor photos, try to avoid solid greens as there is a lot of green in the background with the trees. A little green in a pattern is fine, but just avoid a solid green dress or shirt.
Try to avoid too many people wearing patterns. Depending on the number of people in the session, 1 or 2 patterns is fine but avoid too much.
Ladies, if you have a small child, keep in mind that you may be holding them in some of the shots, so be mindful of low cut dresses/shirts and the tugging and natural shifting of the outfit that occurs when holding your child.
If you have little girls that will be wearing dresses, consider putting on small shorts underneath their dress in case any candid moments or twirly moments reveal undergarments.
Feel free to bring along any makeup or a hair brush for any touch-ups.
For outdoor photos, if anyone is wearing heels, consider purchasing some heel covers to prevent sinking into grass/dirt.

mom and daughter in front of yellow flowers

What to Expect

I will shoot a combination of posed and candid photos. If you have any requests for poses or any specific ideas for shots, please let me know when you arrive (or even in advance via email) and we will do all your requests first.
I will send your gallery of photos to you approx 2-3 weeks after your session (can you get your photos rushed for an extra fee)

family of 5 in a studio with a wooden ladder behind them

Getting Smiles

Depending on the age and personality of your child, sometimes getting those smiles can be a challenge when a stranger is holding up odd equipment in front of them. Especially the itty bitty ones. Even my own daughters will be all smiles when I'm looking at them and the second I put up my camera they often stop. So I may need your help at times to stand behind me and work your mommy and daddy magic to get those sweet smiles.
Talk to your kids ahead of time about where they are going and what to expect. I will have a box of small prizes for them to choose from if you need some extra incentive for them!
Take some time to think about the things that make them smile or laugh. Feel free to bring along any of their favorite toys or be prepared to play/sing their favorite songs. Depending on the age of your child, you may bring along snacks and drinks for your children to keep them energized, nourished and happy.
Most mini sessions are best for babies 3 months and older. Anything younger than 3 months, it would probably be best to schedule a newborn photography session.