The Family Session Style Guide
I'm genuinely excited for your upcoming family session! Thank you so much for trusting me to capture these precious memories that you will cherish for years to come. My main piece of advice for you is simple: have fun and relax during our time together! This guide I’ve put together will help you prepare and provide answers to any questions you may have. I've included some helpful tips to ensure you and your family are all set for the session. Just focus on enjoying your time together while I take care of the rest. I truly look forward to photographing your lovely family!!
Hello there!
You are the best!
Sarah
Choosing Your Color Palette
One of the easiest ways to create a beautiful, timeless look for your family session is to start with a coordinated color palette. Choosing your colors first makes selecting outfits much simpler and helps everyone look cohesive without being overly matched.
Rather than trying to coordinate around one person's outfit, begin with a palette you love and build each family member's wardrobe from those colors. Mixing textures, layers, and subtle patterns within the same palette adds depth and visual interest while keeping the overall look natural and effortless.
Choose the palette that speaks to you and best fits the style of your session. Whether we're photographing in a lush park, an open field, an urban setting, or my studio, these color combinations are designed to create timeless images you'll love for years to come.
Texture Examples
Pattern Examples
Add Interest with Texture & Pattern
Texture is one of the easiest ways to make your outfits look more interesting in photos. It adds depth, warmth, and gives your images a timeless, cozy feel.
Look for fabrics like knit sweaters, lace, crochet, linen, velvet, corduroy, or pointelle. These materials photograph beautifully and add just the right amount of detail.
Patterns are a great way to add personality, too. Gingham, herringbone, houndstooth, subtle florals, and simple stripes all work well. Just remember to keep patterns to one or two family members and pair them with coordinating solids for a balanced look.
Mixing textures and a few subtle patterns will help your family look coordinated, natural, and beautifully styled.
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Get Fancy
If you are planning on wearing a dress, consider the movement of that fabric. Choosing a dress that gracefully flow can elevate your images in ways clingy fabrics can't quite match. Fabrics like tulle, satin, silk and chiffon and tencel are game-changers; they not only move seamlessly with your every step but also photograph beautifully.
So, when it comes to choosing the right dress, consider the magic that movement-friendly fabrics like these and more can bring to your photoshoot experience.
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Shoes
Once you choose your perfect dress or outfit, you might worry about the shoes. Heels can help make your legs look longer and slimmer. I’ll have you walking for some poses, but nothing too difficult. Don’t worry if you wobble, I’m not a pro in heels either! I prefer wedges, especially in a field, since heels can sink into the ground. You don’t need to buy a whole new wardrobe, but a neutral-colored heel or wedge is a safe choice that you can wear again, just in case you need to convince yourself or your partner!
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Details
I have taken photos of many clients, and I've seen how accessories can enhance an outfit or image. These can include stylish earrings, bracelets, a bold necklace, a fashionable hat, and more. This also includes layering clothes like a fun jacket, shaket or cardigan over an outfit.
What to Avoid
A few simple choices can make a big difference in how your photos look.
For everyone:
Avoid matching outfits exactly. Instead, coordinate colors and styles.
Skip neon colors—they don't photograph or edit well.
Avoid clothing with large logos or graphics.
For men:
Try to avoid tucked-in polos with belts. A layered shirt, sweater, or button-up creates a softer, more natural look.
For women:
Avoid thin, clingy fabrics that can be unflattering in photos. Dresses with movement and texture tend to photograph beautifully.
Shoes matter, too!
Athletic shoes, Crocs, and flip-flops can take away from the overall look. Choose simple, neutral shoes whenever possible.
If your little ones have favorite sneakers they don't want to give up, let them wear them to the session and change into their photo shoes right before we start. It's a trick that works surprisingly well!
A little planning goes a long way, and these small details will help create timeless images your family will love for years to come.
The Important part
Some of you may need to encourage your partner to join the photo session. Based on my experience, here are some tips to help get him ready. I ensure the guys have a good time with their families during the session. Here are some ideas to prepare him:
Show him examples of my previous work or photos of other families. This helps him see what the session could be like and reassures him that other guys enjoy it too.
Let him know that I guide everyone through the process and aim to make it relaxed and easy.
Most importantly, explain that these photos are important to you!
Prepping the Littles
Prepare your children for the session to help it run smoothly. I have lots of experience with kids and understand their different personalities. I never judge and I totally understand that not everyone is thrilled about getting their pictures taken! If your kids are old enough, explain the session's importance to them and consider rewarding them with pizza or ice cream afterward, which many families find helpful. For younger kids, bring small snacks or a favorite stuffed animal to keep them engaged. Let me know if they have favorite songs or show to make them smile in a pinch. Also, ensure they aren't hungry or tired. After preparing them, remember to be patient! My goal is to make this experience fun and low-stress for your family.
Bonus Tip: Have your kids try on their outfits before the session to make sure they fit and help them feel comfortable in them. You want to avoid last-minute outfit struggles!!