You’ve reserved your session date with me. Now you might freak out a little because, “OMG, what am I going to wear? What are we ALL going to wear?”

If your kids are becoming little fashionistas, then you might be doubly concerned because you’ve had a few too many fights over attire for family functions. While the princess nightgown is fine 95% of the time, this is probably one time you aren’t going to be so amenable to your tyrant toddler’s desire for red cowboy boots and the Elsa costume.

What to wear for documentary family photography

If you have hired me for a documentary family session, then the red cowboy boots and Elsa costume will be perfect! Seriously, the whole clan should come as they are. I’m photographing authentic family time. I do suggest moms and dads wear a long tank top or undershirt because parents are often crouching down with their kids and nobody wants plumber butt for photos. I also recommend a little makeup like undereye concealer and blush to combat the exhaustion of parenting.

What to wear for lifestyle family portraits

For lifestyle family portraits, I love for my families to not wear the same outfits such as white shirts and blue jeans. Pinterest has so many inspirational boards and color schemes. Definitely check it out.

Family Photos in Chicago Park

I highly recommend coming up with a color palette with 4-5 complimentary colors and choosing clothes with those colors. Or you could just do what I do and find an outfit that you as a mom love and plan the rest of the outfits around your colors. 🙂 Hey, it’s tough having a mom body after giving birth! We should get some perks. Isn’t there an old adage that says if mom feels good, everyone smiles for the camera? No? Well, there should be.

Layering is fabulous in photos since it creates visual interest and hides many flaws. If you have a part of you that you want to minimize, wear darker colors on that part. Fun accessories for parents with pops of color and hats for kids are encouraged. The only firm no-nos I recommend against are no sandals for men and stay away from logos characters on shirts. Although if a batman shirt is the only way your three-year-old will cooperate, by all means, wear the batman shirt.

Speaking of toddlers, have a couple of choices for your more opinionated kids for the day of the shoot. If your kid loves to dress like a princess, pick a poofy, glittery dress. If your son loves his Spiderman shoes, incorporate the colors into your scheme. One important note on shoes: make sure you have the kids try them on and walk around the home before the portrait session. There’s nothing worse during photos than an unhappy toddler in uncomfortable shoes.

  • fun family photos in Chicago Park
  • fall family photos

Lastly, try to think about where the location of the shoot is going to be held. Is it going to be urban or in nature? If it’s at home, what color are the walls going to be? Would your clothing clash with the paint? You might not want to wear three-inch heels in a park or a long-flowing dress next to rusted support beams.

One of the best reasons to hire a smaller photography studio is that you get more specialized attention. I regularly consult with my clients via text about what outfits look good together. They text photos, and I can give feedback. I’m always here to help. So if you are stressed about how to plan for a photo session, feel free to contact me.