Most mothers that book a family photoshoot with me ask me the same question, what should my family wear to the session?

I love helping with this and have some simple tips, which I’ve outlined below - that can really help you pull together complimentary family outfits. I do find it helpful when Mum finds an outfit she loves best first, or if there is a special item of clothing that you have for another family member eg: patterned baby romper, that way you can build the rest of the family outfits around that piece.

1. CHOOSE YOUR COLOUR PALETTE

I always suggest choosing 3-5 colours to work with. Neutrals and soft colours are the easiest to style cohesively, bold and bright colours can be distracting and stand out too much particularly in the outdoor nature environments. Find one outfit you love and build the rest of the families outfits from there. If you have a patterned outfit you have chosen, you can pull colours from the pattern to inject into other family members outfits. It’s also wise to think about where you will be displaying these photos in your home, will the backdrop and your clothing colours match in nicely with your home decor?

2. CHOOSE A FEATURE PATTERN

I recommend only one family member wears a patterned outfit, the rest wear block colours that compliment the patterned item. Having too many patterns mixed together can look distracting and busy. You can sometimes get away with using two patterned outfits as long as they really compliment each-other, being similar colours, or one having a really subtle pattern.

3. ADD SOME TEXTURE

It looks so good when families add textured clothing to their styling, think knit or waffle fabrics, linen, corduroy, lace etc. Adding texture just adds interest and depth to your photos, Having some items of clothing with movement helps think flowy skirts and dresses.

"The Secret to great style is to feel good in what you wear"

COMFORT IS A MUST:

Ultimately wearing clothing you feel comfortable and beautiful in will be best. It will make you shine that little bit more during your shoot.

Wearing clothing that is uncomfortable or not something you would normally wear will show in the images. It’s also a must to make sure kids are dressed comfortably for the shoot.

THINGS TO AVOID:

• Clothing which has large graphics or brand name logos on it. These will date, they will stand out and be distracting in your photos
• Styling the family in ‘matchy matchy’ outfits, think white tops and jeans - this look is a little dated and wont reflect your families unique style
• Too many patterns. If everyone wears something patterned its going to look super busy, best rule to follow is one person wears a pattern, two at most

SHOULD YOU BOOK HAIR AND MAKE UP FOR YOUR PHOTOSHOOT?

This is really personal preference, You want to feel like yourself during your shoot, so if you barely wear any make up ever you might feel best going make up free, or opting for some make up that is super low key and natural. If doing your own hair frustrates you, it is easier to book in and get an expert to style your hair, again naturally.