So you’ve done the entire Marie Kondo thing and now you’ve got nothing to wear to your family photoshoot. Take a breath and relax. These tips will hopefully reassure you, that you’ve got this covered. Even with a recently decluttered wardrobe!
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Tip number 1: Keep it simple
You don’t need to go and purchase an entire new wardrobe. If you would like to buy something special than that’s great, but make sure it’s something you will wear time and time again. Like Marie Kondo would say, make sure it sparks joy!!!! You wont to look back on this moment and remember a time and place. Clothes actually add to this memory.
Tip number 2: Be yourself
There is nothing worse than looking back on photos to see an image of yourself trying to look like a different version of yourself. I should know. I have done this. Before I was a photographer myself, I went to one of those big portrait houses and had hair, makeup and styling done. None of which looked anything like me or was to my taste. I ended up purchasing all of the photos but realised as soon as the photos were delivered, what a mistake the purchase was. The photos have never been displayed and it was the biggest waste of money ever! So I know first hand, the only way you will love your photos is if you are truly yourself in them. This obviously starts with what you wear.
Tip number 3: Coordinate, don’t match
Avoid matching too much. Find coordinating colours instead. Choose three colours and stick within variations of that. For example, orange, blue and white. Or you could pick a theme such as earthy tones.
Tip number 4: Avoid logos and large prints
Avoid large prints or complex patterns that will over-shine other clothes. Make sure children’s clothes are free from logos and big prints. These will date very quickly.
Tip number 5: Ensure a good fit
Make sure your clothes and your family’s clothes fit well. If you have a bra strap that flops down or if your clothes cling to areas where they should not cling, then you can’t expect the photographer to just “photoshop it” or if you do, you may be charged for the extra editing. Look and feel your best with comfortable and well fitting clothes. Also, remember your children no doubt will be running around having fun. Make sure their clothes are suit the occasion.
Tip number 6: Match your location
Make sure your clothes fit the location. Wearing high heels to the beach is probably not going to work. Generally, you will want a smart casual feel for casual, family portraits. You want to look like you do day to day with maybe a little extra pizazz.
Tip number 7: Layout clothes
Finally, lay out everyones clothes on a bed or couch. Do you see anything that does not fit within the theme or colour tones? Is there something that is brighter or more dominant than other clothes? If so, swap it out. You want everyone to have the same visual impact in the picture.
Tip number 8: Iron
Iron your clothes. Simple.
Tip number 9: Accessorise
Think about using accessories. Hats, sunglasses nice jewellery can be a nice touch if it is truly you. Or maybe wearing something sentimental could be nice.
Tip number 10: Plan ahead
Plan ahead. Have everything ready to go so you’re not running late or feeling stressed.
If you’re still looking for inspiration, check out some of my boards on Pinterest here.
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