1. DO NOT be matchy. Identical matching outfits are rarely flattering and do not show the true personalities of each family member. Your family will look more unified if you are using coordinating colors. In addition, each family member will be the focal point of the photo, not what they are wearing.
If you are having a difficult time deciding what colors to wear for your family session, I would be more than happy to assist in the process.
2. Don't be afraid of texture. A bit of texture will add some depth to your photos. It can never hurt to throw your little princess in a tulle skirt or tutu. Scarves and bulky jewelry will add a little flare. You can also add texture through patterns and color. It's okay to have a floral pattern with a stripe or plaid pattern. If done correctly it will make your photos really pop.
3. Flatter your figures! Moms, I have mentioned this before. If you don't feel good in what you are wearing, it doesn't matter what the rest of the family will be wearing. Make sure that what you choose is comfortable in any position, (sit, stand) and that you feel beautiful. Choose a color, pattern and shape that works best with your skin tone and figure. You deserve to feel beautiful no matter what your stage of life!
4. Try to keep your clothing classic yet current. If you are a family that does a shoot every year then this probably won't apply to you. In fact, it makes it kind of fun to look back at the trends. However, if you are a family that only gets pictures every few years, you may want to keep it more classic. There is nothing more horrifying than walking into your home and seeing that picture on the wall that is extremely out of date because of your clothing choices.
5. Accessorize. It's fun to throw on the latest trendy necklaces and bracelets, but keep it simple. You don't want to look back ten years from now and see how extremely dated your photo is. There are many ways to accessorize with style. Let your children look like children. Let their personalities shine through. If your daughter wouldn't typically wear a huge bow on her head, please don't make her wear one now. If your son does not wear hats, don't put him in a fedora.
6. Keep your hair natural. It is always best to keep your hair how you would normally wear it. No need to go all out with crazy curls on your daughter or spiking your son's hair. If you go to too much trouble with the hair, chances are that by the end of the session your child's hair will look different than it did at the beginning. Therefore, your photos will not be unified.
The best example I can think of is my own wedding. Disregard the hat and the candles. Those are a post all on their own.
7. Think of a theme. If your family really enjoys something in particular, let's focus around that. You want your gang to be as natural and to feel as comfortable as possible. Let's do something that you all enjoy. Because, let's face it, most men and children don't ENJOY having their pictures taken. Make the session a good memory.
8. Your session needs to be about YOU. Why not stylize it to fit your family and their individual personalities. You like pancakes? Go to a pancake house and shoot there. Into vintage or retro style? tTake a little ride to the laundromat or an old cafe'. Kids like amusement rides? Shoot at the nearby county fair in the carnival area. The possibilities are endless. Think outside the box, think about your family and their interests. Have fun!
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