The #1 question I get asked after someone books a session with me is, "What do we wear?"



This blog post should break down all of my styling advice for you!


There are several factors that truly "make" your session look like my work that you've come to know and love.

First, it's your family's natural love and connection-brought out with a little help from me with gentle posing and guiding.

Next, is timing and light. I only shoot outdoor sessions at golden hour, and I only shoot studio session during specific times where the light is most favorable.

Last, but not least, are the clothing you and your family members wear. This may seem silly, but the wrong colors or patterns can make or break an image, especially of the colors are too loud or distracting. Below are a few simple "rules" I like to follow when giving styling advice to my clients.

The "Rules"...


#1. Everyone should coordinate, NOT match. You want your color choices to mesh well with one another. Coordinating colors add so much more dimension to an image, as opposed to everyone being dressed in matching colors where the individual person gets lost. No one should be wearing the exact same colors or outfits. An example of coordinating colors are olive, mustard, and cream.


#2. Stick to neutral, earthy, or jewel tones. Colors that photograph well and coordinate with my editing style are creams/beiges/taupes in all shades, browns, earthy colors like olive, mustard, and rust, and the muted version of most other bright colors. For example, instead of royal blue, choose a denim blue. Instead of bright white, choose ivory or cream. Instead of canary yellow, choose mustard. Instead of bright green, choose olive or moss. Instead of bright pink or coral, choose blush pink, mauve, or burgundy. Instead of bright red, choose a brick red. Instead of black, choose charcoal or a darker gray. Deep jewel tones like emerald, navy, burgundy, and eggplant also photograph well. Just make sure to stick with a color theme. Do not mix and match earthy colors with jewel tones, just stick with one theme. Either theme works well with neutrals like browns and creams to coordinate. Colors to avoid are black, neon or bright colors, and anything with a loud or distracting pattern or logo. If anyone wears a pattern, it should be minimal, like a dainty repeating floral design on yours or your little girls dress.


#3. Add different textures! Coordinating interesting textures can really help make your images pop. For example, throw a knitted pullover under your toddler boy's corduroy overalls, or pair a lace kimono over your dress.


#4. Movement is SO important! This tip is mainly for mom. One of the ways I add movement and interest in my images is by having mom wear a dress. It adds beautiful flow, and just brings out something romantic in your images. I know wearing a long flowy dress may not be someone's usual cup of tea, but TRUST me. You'll feel like the queen you are during your session, and you will love your images! Avoid very tight fitting and short dresses and skirts, and instead opt for a longer flowy dress.


#5. Details. Mom, this is the time to spoil yourself! Its not often that your celebrating a new baby or getting family photos taken. Use this as an opportunity to spoil yourself. Have your hair/nails/makeup done! You will feel and look amazing. Wear accessories that make you feel beautiful, and do something a little different like wear a brimmed hat, or gold bangles. Bring along a flowy knitted cardigan to pair with your off-shoulder dress. These things add just a little more something that can truly make your images stand out more. For your kiddos, you can add in flower crowns or dainty bows (avoid large cheerleader-type bows) for girls, and perhaps a beanie or suspenders for your little men.


#6. Footwear. Always go neutral and non-distracting. Stick with brown sandals, flats, boots, or loafers. If your in the studio, I do typically ask for you to be barefoot, but if someone (usually dad) insists on shoes, just be sure that its a neutral brown. Always avoid sneakers, black or white shiny mary-jane type shoes for little girls, and anything in bright colors or sneakers with characters.

Need some help? Let me style you!


If there is one thing I love it's helping style my clients! I do have a client closet most mamas like to borrow from, and it takes much of the styling stress off of your shoulders! I also have everything you need for your baby, as well as a few outfits for younger siblings. If you'd like me to help style you with items from your own closet, or help you shop, simply reach out! I like to make sure outfits are chosen 1-2 weeks prior to your session date.



A FINAL CHECKLIST BEFORE YOUR SESSION:

-Avoid daily jewelry like apple watches or rugged watches.

-Check wrists for hair ties.

-Remove phones/keys/wallets from pockets.

-Wear a bra that won't show or need adjusting. I always recommend a nude bra just in case it peeks out.

-If you cannot part your baby/toddler from their pacifier, be sure to bring one that coordinates well with your colors. A couple of my favorite brands are Bibs and Natursutten.


I hope all of these tips help you more easily coordinate your outfits for your session! As always, if you have any further questions or need a second opinion, feel free to reach out!



xoxo,

Victoria



P.S. Now I know I called these "rules," but these are just my strong suggestions. If you truly can't stand the way you look in a dress, wear what makes you most comfortable and whatever makes you feel beautiful! This is your day. I never want anyone to feel like I'm forcing them to wear what they don't want to wear. These are just my tips and advice based off of my experience ;)