So you've booked your session with your photographer, me! YAY! Next step, figure out the attire. I get it, this part can be overwhelming because, as a mom, you are typically the one behind the camera so this idea of having perfect family photos is just repeating over and over again in your head and finding that combination of clothing for every human in your home can be exhausting.
Check out my notes below and hopefully it will help you nail down a look you are hoping for. If you have any questions or need help picking between 2 dresses, I got you! Contact me any time and I will be happy to help you out!
If you want to avoid reading and just want to see pretty pictures of great clothing combos - check out my Pinterest link to see a bunch of ideas!
Things to Consider:
What is the location of your session?
Where are you getting photos taken? Inside, outside, on the beach, at a park, downtown Annapolis? What will the colors be like in these photos? A lot of green, colorful homes, blue skies and water, sunsets?
What is the vibe you want in your photos?
How do you want your photos to feel? Classic, boho, earthy, retro, formal, beachy, whimsical, rustic, playful, moody or cheery?
What is the season of your photo shoot?
Your outfit should "go" with the season, especially weather wise as you don't want to be wearing a sweater in summer photos or a short dress in the middle of the winter!
The season also helps you choose what colors to start with... Spring tends to be more of a boho style with pastels, whites and blues and fall is more burgundy, golden yellow and flannel! But always consider your family as a whole and YOUR style. If you are not pastel people and you want a moody session in the Spring, let's do it! This session is for you and I want you to be comfortable in whatever you are wearing!
Tips & Tricks
Let's pull this all together!
Start with YOUR outfit and let everyone else work around you. Be confident in what you want to wear!
Basic isn't a bad thing. Spice up basic pieces with layers (cardigans, layered button-up, sweater, scarf).
Avoid skin tight dresses and stick to something that is more flowy and moves as it will add a bit of extra movement to your photos and will ultimately be the most flattering look.
Avoid bold patterns and logo tees. You want to look at the picture and notice your expressions, the vibe, not that super bold Hawaiian floral tee and neon pants Uncle Craig is rocking.
Some of my fave places to shop for basics are Old Navy, H&M, Zara and Target.
Make sure whatever outfits you choose, they are YOU. The last thing you want is to feel uncomfortable during the photos, so make sure your personalities and vibes are also a part of your decision-making when planning.
If you are a sweaty person and its a crazy hot day, consider bringing a different outfit for the walk to your session spot and your session outfit. Also bring a towel to wipe off your face or body occasionally ;)
Lay the outfits out on the floor and see how they mesh. If you have ANY questions or concerns about them, don't hesitate to email me!
Not outfit related but just kid related - ALWAYS bring bribery snacks. Just trust me, you will be happy you have them!
Things to avoid:
Avoid colors like red, orange or bright pink. All of these colors have a tendency to cast that color on to who ever you are next to which can make for some interesting editing on my end.
Don't get too matchy-matchy. Add in various textures, colors that mesh well with one another, and don't be afraid to pop in a splash of pattern.
Avoid bold patterns and logo tees. You want to look at the picture and notice your expressions, the vibe, not that super bold Hawaiian floral tee and neon pants Uncle Craig is rocking. But... if this is your vibe and you want to bold it up and rock it, let's do this!
A few great links for dresses for mom:
If you have made it this far - thank you for sticking with me through my nonsense and blabbering. I hope that something here has inspired you and maybe this thing that might have been a daunting task at first is no longer as scary ;)
If you need anything, don't hesitate to reach out! I would be happy to help you choose between a few things or help you find your "style".
Looking forward to working with you!
xoxo,
Heather