I get quite a few clients asking about what they should wear for their family pictures. I thought I'd just put together a few tips here based on what I've seen that does and does not work in photos.
For family shots, I believe it's best to pick one or two prints and then fill in coordinating solids for the rest of the family. I suggest finding a print that has the "feel" you're looking for and build the rest of the wardrobe around that without being too "matchy-matchy"...you know what I'm saying? For example, here is my most recent family photo:
Notice how the prints are on Teagan in the chevron/houndstooth dress and Addy in the plaid pants. From here, we have the rest of the family in coordinating solids (some bold like Boston's sweater and some neutral like my jacket and Michael's sweater).
Keep in mind that accessories can really make a photo (not to mention slim a person down). Belts, scarves, hats, bows, headbands and great jewelry can really make every outfit unique and yet still cohesive. I suggest putting your pieces all together and stepping back. If they look like you'd be able to wear them as one, you're probably on the right track!
Some things to think about:
1. Avoid dressing for more than one season. Since fall is a great time for family photos, avoid the temptation to dress yourself in a cozy sweater and let the teenager wear short sleeves and flip flops (if that's a battle you're willing to take on...ha). Also, don't let your husband throw on his favorite white undershirt and call it an outfit. Plain white is tough to pull off in photos unless you're going for a very specific, clean cut, oxford-type look. Force your man into your favorite button-down or sweater.
2. Check your footwear. In family photos, well in all photos really, shoes are important. Unless the cozy, no-shoes feeling is what you're going for, I suggest black or brown shoes. We're looking for shoes that blend. This is really not the time to sport those new kelly green crocs or bright orange flip flops. Of course, if you've got yourself a really great pair pink heels that make your outfit, by all means, rock 'em.
3. Make sure the colors are going to be something that will fit in your home so you can get some great enlargements (the best home decor is a family photo (or 6), I think).
4. LAYERS! One way to make your photos look even better is by adding a lot of layering. You can add more color into your outfit choices by adding layers without having to add more prints. Layers are slimming! Just do it.
