The last few weeks I’ve been totally consumed with trying to plan my family’s wardrobe for this year’s fall photos. Hands down this is the number one area I get quizzed about by my clients in my photography business. Styling can impact your photos just as much as the location itself, sometimes even more. Getting it right is important and it doesn’t have to be rocket science.
Number one.
Start with yourself. You’re likely the one who booked the photos and you are likely the one who’s going to be picking which photos to purchase. In other words, you have the highest standards. You should feel your best in front of the camera. Decide upon your look and build from there.
Number two.
Don’t be matchy-matchy. Coordinate. Choose patterns and complementary colors. Make sure everyone in the family is the same level of dressed up or dressed down. Lay out all your clothes and see how they look together.
Number three.
Add visual interest. Overly basic outfits tend to be a little bland in photos. You know I like my basics, and if that’s how you like to dress too, plan to include accessories to add depth to your look. Remember the fundamentals of interesting outfits: color, pattern, texture, sheen. Thank you, Stacy and Clinton.
Consider your location. How dressy or casual is the setting? Your clothes should work with it. Don’t don formal wear in the woods and don’t wear jean shorts if you’re shooting in an urban location. Furthermore, what are the colors at your location and how can your wardrobe tie in with it? If you’re shooting somewhere with lots of earth tones you can play into that with a tonal pallet or you can contrast it with a jewel-tone pallet.
Consider the colors in your house and the rooms in which you will display these photos. What colors do you want to see on the wall of your home?There you have it, my top five tips for how to style your family (or group!) for photos. If you have any go-to tips when styling shoots I’d love to hear in the comments below!
cheers,
andrea
