With fall coming upon us come the fall mini sessions, Thanksgiving and Christmas portraits. I had a lovely mother say to me tonight in a message on Facebook Messenger, "I want to do family pictures but I don't know what to expect." I did assure her that uncooperative children and husbands who just want the shoot to be done will be part of what to expect. She was actually the inspiration behind tonight's blog. Have you ever stressed over what to wear to a family shoot? Well, stress no more! I'm here to, hopefully, save the say.
Now keep in mind, I'm using fall as an example since that's the season we're in (although in Georgia it sure doesn't feel like it with "feel like" temperatures of 100º) but this guide can work with any time of year.
To keep it simple, start with three colors and put outfits together using those three colors. Try to keep one of the colors neutral if possible. Neutrals can be colors like black, grey, khaki, white, etc.
Now, add a small pop of color. A purple, bright yellow, whatever suits you. Just keep in mind that the eye is going to be drawn to that pop of color in your photos. With that being said, try to make that brightest color an accessory. a little girl's hair bow, a scarf, shoes, etc.
Something I cannot stress enough is this....there is a HUGE difference between coordinating and matching. I mean, if you wanna appear awkwardfamilyphotos.com then by all means, feel free to match LOL. Coordinate your outfits so that your color scheme fits, but compliments one another and do it in the style that you're comfortable in. There is nothing worse than taking photos of a family or individual wearing something that they are clearly uncomfortable wearing. It shows through in every photograph.
Don't be afraid to blend patterns and solids but please, please, please make sure the pattern is easy on the eye and doesn't stand out so much that it takes over the whole photo.
The most important thing though is to bring your smiles, your personalities and be prepared to have a great photo session. If the kids don't cooperate 100%, then that's okay! As photographers we not only know this but we totally understand as well.
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