What to Wear: Fall Family Portraits

I think we can all agree that Fall is the best season in Michigan! That said, Fall is the best time to get family portraits taken- the colors are gorgeous, and getting your portraits taken will give you enough time to choose which photo(s) you want for your holiday cards. When families book sessions with us, one of our frequently asked questions is: “What do we wear?!” Coordinating outfits for multiple people can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be! This blog post will help you and your family with styling before your portrait session.

For starters, choose a color palette. Think about 2-3 coordinating colors. We recommend starting off neutral (black/tan/denim jeans) and building off of that. When you’re coordinating colors, look for similar and/or muted versions of the same color. For example, if mom is wearing a black top, dad can wear a black shirt or a dark charcoal sweater. The color palette you choose will affect the overall look of your photo.

Here are some quick outfit tips:

Coordinate, don’t match! Choose colors that complement each other. Avoid the exact same patterned top as your spouse/kids, or putting your girls in the same matching dresses.
Consider your home interior style. If you are displaying your family portraits in your home, think about wearing colors and styles that go with your home.
Choose timeless over trendy. Although trendy clothes are fun because they’re in now, they’ll quickly date your portraits. If you aren’t the type to get family pictures every year, and these portraits will be displayed in your home for years to come, classic clothing is the way to go.
Add variety and interest with accessories, layers, and subtle patterns. Little details go a long way. Bring watches, necklaces, cardigans, etc. to add dimension to your outfits. Patterns are great in small doses and also go a long way.
Fitted clothing > Loose/flowy clothing. Although flowy dresses and tops can be cute, they don’t appear the same in portraits. You don’t want tight clothes either, but choose clothing pieces that are comfortable for you.
Remember the shoes. Shoes can either complete an outfit or ruin an outfit! Make sure that they go with your outfits and are comfortable.
Dress for the weather. Have you ever underdressed during cold weather or overdressed for hot weather? It’s uncomfortable, and we want you to feel as comfortable as possible when you’re getting your portraits taken. If you’re unsure about how you will feel, layer! Pack cardigans and sweaters for the family.
Don’t wait last minute. Try on your clothing days before your session and look at your outfits from different angles.
Be authentically you. Wear something that you feel like yourself in.