Okay, you’ve sent your photography inquiry. You’ve scheduled your session for 4 weeks out and double checked to made sure your spouse isn’t working that day. You’ve paid your deposit. You’ve checked the weather Almanac SEVERAL times. It’s been raining the past five years, but that’s okay, it was partly sunny in 1967. You’re standing in front of your closet and you STILL don’t know what to wear and your session is next week.
Not only do you have to pick out your own outfit, but your spouse hasn’t bought a new shirt since that one wedding how many summers ago and your kids’ clothes all have raspberry stains from eating all the berries off the plant in the backyard. (It was a fruitful year.)
Don’t worry! A quick (HAH!) trip to Target will provide you with coordinated outfits making you look (and feel) like rock stars.
For a little nudge in the right direction, I’ve put together a few tips to help you choose your outfits. These work for families, engagements, and seniors.
Decide on a palette of 3-4 colors to base your outfit on (including pants and dresses). You want a cohesive feel, but without being too matchy. You want your outfits to compliment each other. Please, no solid white shirts with khaki pants. Don’t even think about black polos with jeans. It’s outdated… like 2002. And try not to put all the males in plaid. It starts to look a like a Magic Eye.
I always suggest that the women to choose outfits she feels confident and beautiful in and then have everyone’s outfit coordinate from there. It’s easier to start with one item or color and build from there.
Long dresses flow elegantly in the wind and look amazing on every body type.
Layer your clothing to add texture and dimension to your outfits. Include a belt or necklace or if its cooler out, don a scarf or sweater cardigan.
First and foremost: be you. For example, I love earrings so I would wear big feather earrings and a few bracelets. Do you love hats? Bring one (but don’t wear it, yet). Does your family love boots? Wear them!
Arrange your outfits ahead of time. Lay all of them out on a big bed in natural window light including accessories . Make sure all clothes are clean, pressed, and ready to go on hangers a few days before your session.
Avoid: T-shirts with large graphics, neon colors, tube socks, overly formal clothes, and dirty shoes (unless they’re boots, in which that’s okay). I don’t recommend high heels either. We’re likely going to be outside walking or playing.
Ladies: Pamper yourself by getting your hair styled and makeup done before the session. Makeup should be natural but slightly heavier than normal. I recommend hiring a Make Up Artist. I work with a few MUAs that also do basic hair (curls/waves). For make up and hairstylist recommendations, contact me!
Men: Plan a haircut for a week or so before. Shave the night before or in the morning and put on aftershave to reduce redness and irritation. Cut and clean your fingernails.
Large groups have a little bit of a challenge, but as long as you stick with the above tips, you’ll all look amazing!
If you are needing ideas, I suggest looking at Pinterest to find inspiration. Find my Pinterest page @foxandwagon and click on Session Wardrobe Ideas. I’ve also created an outfit shopping list on Amazon so you can buy online right away.
You can always text me with pictures of your outfits if you’re concerned!
It doesn’t take a rocket surgeon to decide what to wear for your portrait session. It does take a little bit of planning, but as long as you wear something that you feel good in, you’ll look good.
Still have no idea what to wear? I have a few dresses and a top in my Client Closet to choose from. I will update as soon as I get someone to model them!