One of the most common questions I get from clients when booking in for a photo session, whether it be one person or a family is:
“What do I/we wear?”
In my experience there is no one set answer that I can give because each client I have worked with over the years tends to have their own personal fashion style.
There are a few things that I do suggest that come top of mind though, especially when it comes to working with a family group:
– Consider where the photos will eventually be displayed (a colour scheme/style that will work with the wall/room where the photos may hang on the walls or be displayed on shelves)
– Consider some tones and colours that will hold the test of time and not seem dated (eg.possibly steer clear of fluorescent colours that will date the photo very quickly)
– On the flip side of the last point, if you and/or your family have a quirky style and love to show this, use this to your advantage and high light the colours and patterns that you love to wear…
– If neutrals are more appealing to you, I suggest finding one colour that can be used to connect a group and have at least two people wear this colour even if it’s just a small splash.
– Try to stay away from one person wearing something completely clashing to the group, even if it is a beautiful article of clothing,it will jump out at you when you look at the photo!
– My preference is not to have families/groups where matching outfits….colours and tones that match, but not outfits(exceptions being sisters/brothers etc).
– Finally, make sure everyone is wearing clothes that they feel comfortable in and makes them feel good…..this can dramatically affect the outcome of a portrait.
Trying to work with these suggestions to come up with a beautiful series of portraits can take more than a last minute gathering of clothes and shoes, so when you are ready to book a photo session, keep in mind that you will need to leave some time to prepare for what you would like to wear.
This part can be fun and it can also be a great way of engaging children/teens and dads in getting ready for the photo session, encouraging them to have some choices, as well as preparing them for what sort of photos they will get by being prepared.
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