What to Wear to Your Photo Session: 6 Tips for Fantastic Photos

Planning your family photos (or any other photos!) and wondering what to wear? Choosing the right outfits can make a huge difference in how your final images turn out! As a photographer who loves a light, true to color edit, I always recommend soft, light, neutral tones, and there's actually a scientific reason for it. Deeper, darker colors absorb light creating a much higher contrast image and can actually wash your skin out, while lighter, more neutral colors reflect light back which lights up your face and skin and keeps the overall contrast of the image consistent. Typically, I try to shoot on lower contrast backgrounds like fields or lakes or light colored walls which keeps your photos looking the way that I prefer them. If you love the bright and light images that I do, here's my tips to help create that specific look and simultaneously appear put together.

1. Stick to light, neutral colors, and pastels.

Your clothing choices have the biggest role in how your photos feel. To keep things light, airy, and natural, opt for:

Neutrals - Cream, beige, soft gray, and warm whites
Soft Pastels - Blush pinks, dusty blues, sage greens, and light taupes
Earthy Tones - Muted browns, rust, and olive tones for a natural feel

These types of colors work beautifully together and help ensure that your faces - not your outfits - are the focus of the images. I also suggest avoiding black, deep, or dark colors as it changes the overall vibe of the images. Avoid bright, neon colors or busy, bold prints that can distract from the natural beauty of your family & the setting.

2. Coordinate, don't match.

Thank heavens, the days are gone of everyone wearing identical shirts and jeans - whew! Instead, aim for a coordinated look where colors and textures complement each other. There are a couple of ways to do this, but here's my go-to:

Select 1 (or two) lightly patterned shirt or dress - like florals or small polka dots
Choose 2-3 colors from the patterned outfit and mix them among the remaining family members
Incorporate a few different textures (like linen, knits, denim or lace) for depth

For family sessions, I like to suggest starting with Mom's outfit first, and then build the rest of the family's looks around it.

3. Dress for the weather.

Comfort is super important during your shoot! Make sure your outfit choices match the season and location.

Spring & Summer - light fabrics, flowy dresses, short sleeves
Fall & Winter - cozy layers, sweaters, jeans

If it's chilly, layering is your best friend - think cute cardigans, stylish coats, or textured scarves, to add warmth without bulking up. If it's really warm and you're worried about sweat stains, put the biggest culprits in really loose button ups or patterned outfits - it hides pesky stains much easier.

4. Keep patterns minimal & avoid logos.

A little pattern is great to wear, adds depth to a photo, and is visually pleasing, but too much can be very distracting. Stick to one subtle pattern, like a soft floral, tiny polka dots, or a lightly colored plaid, and let the rest of the outfits be solid colors. Avoid bold stripes, large prints, or anything with big logos, as they can take the attention away from your faces. I kind of mentioned this in point one, but I'd also double check the colors in the patterns and make sure that they fit with the colors and vibe of the photos you're looking for. A few large navy blue flowers on a white dress will photograph very differently than tons of sky blue flowers on a cream dress.

5. Think about your shoes and all your accessories.

Shoes can make or break your outfit. Keep them neutral and classy - avoid bright sneakers, overly casual flip-flops (unless of course, you're doing beach photos), or anything too trendy that might date your photos. Instead aim for classic, neutral-toned boots, keds, loafers, flats, or sandals that will blend in with your outfits.

Jewelry and accessories should also be simple and timeless - delicate necklaces, small earrings, a soft hat or scarf, or anything that feels like you, can add a beautiful touch without overpowering your outfit.

6. Make sure you feel comfortable and confident.

Last but not least, my most important tip is to wear something that makes you feel like you! If you're uncomfortable in your outfit, it will tend to show in your photos, and while I can guide you in poses and prompts, I can't change subtle facial expressions, etc. Moms, this means making sure your neckline is not going to bother you anytime you bend down to interact with your little ones. Dads, this means choosing an outfit that won't have you sweating miserably the entire time and trying to hide it. Kids shouldn't be wearing scratchy clothes that make them cranky and fussy. Choose something that compliments you and your personality, while also allowing you the freedom to move and interact naturally, so you can feel your best! Remember, your photographer can only do so many miracles and if you hate your outfits... that's one thing that I can't really fix as much as I wish I could.

At the end of the day, the photos that you receive back will be primarily dictated by the colors that you're wearing and if you're comfortable in them. And if you really want to get into color theory on outfits... my husband is obsessed with this and could probably give you an hour long spiel on what colors and outfits to wear to best compliment your skin tones. As always... feel free to message me and ask for recommendations before your session, I'm always happy to help!

CassandraMarie Photography

Services in Omaha, NE

and surrounding areas

Email: cassandramariephotography3@gmail.com

Phone - What'sApp: 402-238-6309

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