Spring is in the air and family portrait season is here! Choosing the right outfits can make your photos shine. Have fun with colors and accessories and consider where your finished portraits will hang in your home. Make sure the colors you choose will either make a statement or choose tones that blend with your decor. Have fun and read a few tips on how to prepare. Can’t wait to see everyone this season for portraits! My Spring portrait event sign-ups are in progress, make sure to find a time that works for you! Enjoy the weather!
“What to wear this Spring?”
More than any other question. I am always asked by clients what they should wear to their family session. What you wear sets the tone for your pictures, so choosing your outfits can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. The most important thing to remember is that your clothes should reflect your own personal style, you should feel comfortable and wear what makes you feel good. I’ve learned a lot over the years of helping my families simplify choosing outfits and looking picture perfect. And I want to share my favorite tips for what to wear in family photos in New Orleans with you! I hope the information here helps. Please keep in mind that I’m available to answer questions or even give you some inspiration.
01 Always feel comfortable
The most important thing to remember is that your clothing should reflect your personal style, keep it simple, comfortable and wear something that makes you genuinely feel confident and happy. If you feel good, you will look good! Choose clothing that gives you freedom of movement and won’t require a lot of maintenance throughout your session.
02 Consider your home decor
When you are picking a color scheme for your outfits, keep in mind that these colors will be the color displaying on your wall so you would like your images match with the interior of your house. If you have mostly neutrals at home, try ligther pastels. If this is for a child’s room a big pop of color such as a yellow or red dress can be fun.
03 Consider your location
Alway keep your session location in mind when choosing your outfit. The bold colors of the French Quarter can compliment a calm neutral or jewel tones. The deep greens and browns of City Park can be the netural behind a bold color or patterns. You don’t want to blend with your background. If you want natural looking, relaxed images, dress in a way that’s appropriate for your location.
04 Choose classic over trendy
Think about choosing classic looks that have been around for decades and avoid trends. Go for a timeless look. The last thing you want is to look at your photos 10-20 years from now and question your fashion choices. I recommend staying away from logos, characters, or other selections that could date your portraits.
05 Keep make-up natural
You will want to avoid using very heavy makeup, but a bit of color on your lips, eyes, and cheeks will help bring you to life in photos. Be sure to bring some lip gloss with you as well for touch-ups as there may be lots of smooches in store from your partner and little ones!
06 Pick the colors first
Start by selecting a base of 2-3 colors and carry those through every outfit so that everything looks good together. Keep in mind that the colors you choose for each family member does not have to match, mix neutrals with some accent colors. Neutrals create a soft and elegant style and will give your images a timeless feel.
07 Layer, Pattern and Textures
Layers are one of the best ways to add a pop of color or variety to your outfit. Consider throwing on a sweater or jacket over a dress, add a scarf or throw on a belt. For the boys think blazers, hats, or an adorable bow tie. Don’t be scared of patterns and prints. They can work great in moderation. Patterns can make your wardrobe look less boring and add some interest. When choosing patterns, look for small simple patterns in soft or neutral colors. Textures are wonderful too. Think lace, ribbons, ruffles, crochet, and embroidery…the possibilities are endless.
08 Accessorize
You can really play up an outfit and add personality and interest to your photo with accessories. Keep it simple- hats and scarves can easily be exchangeable and can add touches to the photos. Fresh florals in a crown can be a really romantic touch for you and your girl. Barretts and headbands can help keep those locks away from eyes as they bounce around for photos.
09 The little details count
Shoes are a very important part of a wardrobe and they make the whole look cohesive. Choose colors and styles that coordinate with the choice of your outfit. Steer clear of flip-flops, runners/sneakers, or shoes that are too worn out. Check your finger nails, you do not want chipped nail polish. If your are wearing sandals, make sure you have a pedicure too. Remember to iron the outfit. Your are investing time and money into a custom portrait session, take the time to ensure everything looks it’s best.
10 Plan ahead
Make sure you have given yourself enough time to think about all of the details of your session. Plan ahead so that #1 you can truly think about your photos and everything you want out of the session, #2 you aren’t rushing and stressing out right before your session, and #3 if you have decided to go for a new look for your session and someone gets a bad haircut, you still have time to fix things if you need to.
11 Favorite shops
For Mom:
Peony – www.peonynola.com | Jaci Blue – www.jaciblue.com | Zara – www.zara.com | JCrew –www.jcrew.com |Boden –www.bodenusa.com | Anthropolgie –www.anthropologie.com | Urban Outfitters – www.urbanoutfitters.com | Century Girl Vintage – https://www.centurygirlvintage.com |Trashy Diva – https://trashydiva.com | Joyfolie – https://www.joyfolie.com
