Style Guide

Shooting for Success

What you wear is key for a successful session. Clothing complements who you are as a family, speaks to the environment in which the session is taking place, and coordinates with the home where final images will be displayed. Your style should be as unique as your family, so we’ve put together some clothing advice for a creative, comfortable session.

what to wear…

for the whole family

Be sure to plan your outfits completely a few days before your session.
Here are some general rules of the road for making picture-perfect fashion decisions:

• Choose a palette of 3-4 colors and mix it up, including both pants and dresses. You want a cohesive feel, but without being overly ‘matchy-matchy’.
  Picture a page in a clothing catalog where everyone coordinates, and nobody stands out more than the rest.
• Light clothes look better on lighter backgrounds, and dark clothes look better on darker backgrounds.
• Generally, sleeveless shirts and shorts on adults tend not to flatter, but layered clothing is fabulous.
• Arrange your outfits ahead of time on a big bed, including accessories. We love a great bracelet, earrings, shoes, or belt.
• Make sure all clothes are clean and pressed and on hangers a few days before your session.
• Remember, shoes must be clean and stylish, too.

newborns

are cutest in their natural form — without any clothes at all!
For young babies who can’t yet sit up, clothing tends to steal the show.

Choose:

• solid onesies, simple cloth diapers or diaper covers, and plain swaddling blankets
• knitted caps & headbands, which are adorable
  for a few images
• a few special/classic props that have meaning to your family, like work or hobby accessories
• a special blanket for variety

Avoid:

• grown-up clothes like dresses and pants; babies sink right into them and disappear!
• socks, shoes, or big bows

babies & kids

who are sitting and standing can be bolder with color and style.

Choose:

• to show off their fun style with layered clothing non-fussy, casual clothes to keep kids comfortable and show their real personalities
• fitted clothes so you can see the child
  If the child is old enough, include them by letting them choose between your two favorite options!

Avoid:

• big bows, any sort of makeup or hairspray
• baggy loose clothes

adults, teens, & older children

Choose:

• clothes that flatter your body type and coordinate well with the rest of the group
  solid neutral colors, which usually photograph best, with a pop of color
• a clean shaven look for men
• to have hair cut a week, or so, before the session (men)
• to have hair styled before the session (women)
• to have natural makeup that is slightly heavier than usual
• a key accessory can really personalize the session!
• * Don’t sweat the small stuff! We will gladly retouch boo-boos and blemishes if required. Our clients love this extra service.