Hello & Welcome!
If you are new here my name is Natalie, and I'm wedding and portrait photographer based in Three Oaks, Michigan. In this blog post I'm going to be sharing some tips & outfit inspiration for your next family session, because I want you to have photographs that you'll be excited about displaying in your home! For those of us who do not always dress-up that often (me included!) these sessions are a great time to put on a new fancy outfit, and enjoy yourself! Make this a memory, a tradition, Have fun together, laugh A LOT, and make your next session a sweet memory to look back on all together!
+Styling Tips for the Whole Family+
DRESS IT UP!
There is no such thing as “too dressy” for your portrait session. Dressy photos always stand out amongst those who go the more casual route, and they are so captivating to see. You’ll be sure to turn heads as you walk on
the scene looking fantastic! I always recommend selecting lighter tones and more muted shades. By avoiding ultra-bright, bold colors, it will help bring all the attention to your faces and let the eye focus on the way you feel about each other. The camera loves shades of soft pink and muted blues, mixed with sophisticated light neutrals like heather gray, creams, leather brown, navy, and white.
AVOID “MATCHY-MATCHY”
Although it may be tempting to dress everyone up in the same plaid print or in that white tee and jeans, photos really look stunning when there is nice coordination without overly matching. I typically suggest dressing no more
then two people up in the same print or color. This helps to balance out your photos so the attention is drawn to YOU! Instead of having everyone wear the same color, try picking two or three colors that blend well together and coordinate that way! Try experimenting with different shades of colors, or adding different prints or fabrics to the
mix!
+Styling Tips for Mom+
It's your time to shine and purchase that long, flowy dress you’ve been eyeing! Your family’s outfits will be coordinated to match yours so take this opportunity to make a memory where you feel your best. Start doing your research now and feel confident and gorgeous for your session with your family. And don't forget, add a little more makeup than you normally do. A colored lip and extra blush will really look great in pictures!
1. SAY YES TO THE DRESS
Dresses and skirts look most stunning because they really flatter every female body, especially on camera! Long, fulllength, flowy dresses and skirts look amazing on camera because they bring extra movement to the photo. Consider softer fabrics like chiffon or tulle!
2. FLATTER YOUR FEATURES
Choosing flattering silhouettes and colors that complement your natural features is the best way to ensure you’ll love the way you look in your photos. Remember, heels elongate women’s legs, making them look fabulous!
3. MAKE A STATEMENT
Pairing an accessory or two with your outfit can really help bring some extra dimension and pop to your images. Try a statement necklace, earrings, or flower crown for fun!
4. TREAT YOURSELF
This is a great time to treat yourself and go pro! Pamper yourself by getting your nails, hair, and makeup done professionally. It makes you feel beautiful, and it looks stunning on camera!
+Styling Tips for Dad+
I always think a nice pair of khakis or navy pants dresses up any neutral colored button up and could coordinate with almost any color dress you choose for yourself!
1. FIND THE BEST FIT
Long, fitted pants and close-toed shoes are the msot sophistocated and masculine looks for men. They draw attention away from his legs and feet and place it where you want it: on his handsome face! For your session, it’s best to leave the shorts, sandals, and loose-fitting pants at home.
2. BRING IN LAYERS
Layers on men look great on camera, even when it’s hot outside. Trust me when I say it’s worth the hour or two of discomfort for photos that will last you both a liftime! Blazers, vests, and coats up the level of any look and will bring extra dimension to your photos.
3. MIX IT UP
Many of my guys love to mix a suit coat, blazer, or sport coat with a different pant color. It adds some extra visual interest and helps to break up the color tones.
4. DON’T FORGET DETAILS
Ties, bowties, pocket squares, colored socks, suspenders, and watches are sharp compliments to any outfit for men.
Although small, they add great pops of class to your photos.
+Styling Tips for the Kids+
DRESSY OVER CASUAL
I always suggest dressing the little ones in something more dressy instead of their casual play wear. Dressy clothes, even on kids, will automatically make your photos stand out! Some great places to look for unique, beautiful outfits
are Moderne Child or Etsy! Remember, there is no such thing as “too dressed up” for your portrait session, so have some fun!
THINK LIKE ADULTS
I know they may be little, but many of the tips For Her and For Him still apply to the kids. (They’re basically little adults anyway, right?) For the girls, dresses and accessories are perfect! Maybe add a fun flower crown or bow for an extra pop of beautiful. For the boys, layers are adorable! And don’t forget about the cute details like suspenders or a fun bowtie!
