#1 Be Comfortable
Always wear clothes that you will be comfortable in. Make sure that selected clothing flatters your body and you feel confident wearing it. Garments that allow movement are definitely a plus, especially for little children. Think about your location. Ideally, your choice of clothing should stand out against the backdrop of the selected location. Wear similar tones that will go nicely together. Choose solid colours, or consider monotones of neutral colors with soft, flowing fabrics. Try to avoid shiny fabric and logo’s. Wear colours that compliment your eye colour / skin tone / partner’s outfit. Men’s collared shirts should have long sleeves and wear long pants. Ladies, consider a pretty dress and sandals. Dress/skirts should be long or just above the knee. Longer / short sleeves are both flattering and more comfortable.
#2 Makeup
Some photographers make it mandatory to hire a professional makeup artist for your shoot. I don’t require it but I strongly urge it. Over the years, I’ve learned how important professionally applied makeup is for the success of women’s portraits (guys are lucky – they don’t usually need it). Whether it’s an outdoor shoot with natural light or a at home indoor session, you need a stronger application of makeup than you normally wear. Most people don’t know how to do this themselves. A skilled, trained makeup artist knows how to make it look natural on camera. This will be especially beneficial since I will be taking a lot of close up shots as well.
#3 Don’t Match
The key to looking timeless as a family or couple is to coordinate your clothing choices, but not match them. You should complement each other in terms of color – and selecting a color theme is one of the best ways to accomplish this easily. Go with 2-3 bright colors and offset them with a few neutrals, select a pastel color palette, or wear simple cream or gray with pops of color. Each family member should carry through their own style and really express their personality with their clothing choices. I find it easiest to achieve a coordinated look if I start with one patterned/print piece and then pull coordinating colors from it. It’s the easiest to start with 1 outfit you really love and build from there. Lay everyone’s outfits out on the bed. This will give you a good idea if everything goes well together. Play around till you’re completely happy.
#4 Layers, Accessories & Textures
Layering and using textures are very important. Adding a scarf, a knit cardigan, hat, or stylish jewelry is one of the best ways to add color, individuality, and interest to your portrait. Textures in particular add an incredible amount of visual interest to pictures and especially look great in black and white.
#5 Think About Your Shoes
Don’t ignore what goes on your feet. This is the best area to get creative and to add loads of personality to your photos.
#6 Coordinate With Room Colors
If you have a specific idea about where your photos will feature in your home, look around the room and coordinate what you wear to your choice of interior decor. It doesn’t need to be an exact match, just to look right in the space. And remember each session includes the option to consult with me for free, or a professional stylist for your session’s styling!
#7 Just be YOU!
Express your own personal style, let your makeup, hair, accessories be true to who you are – just be you!