This is one of the most common questions we receive from our clients. While Danielle claims no expertise in fashion - for years, her wardrobe consisted of scrubs and hiking clothes - we know how to make you look great in the images we will create together.
Below are a few tips and tricks for dressing for the success of your family or couples portrait photo session.
Should We All Wear the Same Style and Color Shirt?
We typically only recommend everyone wear the same colors in the same styles if that is a look you are really looking for.
Tips
- Select outfits of assorted designs of the same color
- Use complementary colors
- If one person is wearing a button-down shirt, have others wear a sweater vest or use a scarf over their tops
- Pick one outfit that has a print and match the rest of the outfits to that print using solid colors
- Various styles and colors add dimension and character to your images.
- Limit the number of patterns and prints so as not to clash
One combo for couples we love is where one person wears a print, such as a dress with a nice floral print, and the other wears a solid sweater matching one color within the print.
What Colors Do You Recommend?
Blue is the color we have found that works best in almost all outdoor settings.
Different shades and patterns of blue with complementary colors like orange look great when paired with the greenery of an outdoor location. Of course, we are partial to a good navy and dark orange ;-)
Tips
- Check out a color wheel to see what colors complement each other
- Try putting together some outfits with these color combinations
- Avoid neon or super bright colors as they can create a color cast onto your skin
- Avoid small, intricate patterns
Dress for Comfort First
Nature portrait photography produces some spectacular images. But if you are uncomfortable, it will show in your final images.
An hour may not seem long, but when you are out in 90° heat or 30° cold with wind, you can become uncomfortable quickly if not appropriately dressed.
Tips
- Select outfits each of you are comfortable wearing
- Consider the weather conditions before leaving the house
- When in doubt, dress in layers - this can help with both comfort and provide you with a variety of outfits throughout your session
- Wear shoes that are comfortable for walking up to a mile.
- If you choose to wear heels, bring a pair of flats to walk in
- Gloves, scarves, and hats can make for a unique photo opportunity - don’t count them out for outfit choices
What About Inclement Weather?
With Damien being a pilot, we have a weather expert in-house to keep a close eye on the weather conditions leading up to your session.
We are fully equipped to photograph in most weather conditions. But just because we can, doesn’t mean we will or that you want to.
When Will We Force a Reschedule
Because safety is one of our top priorities, we will reschedule if there are unsafe conditions:
- Ice
- Hail
- Thunderstorms
- Heavy winds
- Extreme heat
What About Clouds, Rain, and Snow?
Rainy days can create some unique photo opportunities. Add some cute umbrellas, and you have a perfect family photo you will cherish forever.
Many people believe having a full sunny day is best for photos. In our experience, an overcast and cloudy day creates a much better photo. The clouds create a softer, diffuse light, and reduce harsh shadows on the face.
Although we don’t tend to get a lot of snow in the Northern Virginia area, if we can catch a day where snow is on the ground (and the roads are safe), it is a golden opportunity to create stunning winter photos.
We will always check in with you to see if you are okay if there is rain or snow predicted. We want you to be comfortable with your photos and can reschedule to your weather backup date if rainy-day photos just aren’t your thing.
Props, Puppies, Etc.!
Wondering how you can make your photo experience more personal and memorable? Bring along props that are special to you and your family. Ones that tell a story will help you create more memorable images.
Bring along your four-legged family members - they are part of your family, might as well include them in your family photos! Most locations we recommend for photos are dog-friendly.
Tips
- A handmade item, such as a scarf knitted by grandma, can add that special person to your photos, even if they can’t be there in person
- A piece of jewelry that has been in the family for generations, while small, will be meaningful to you and your family
- You don’t have to wear or use the props in each photo
- Bring some snacks for the four-legged friends - this helps to capture their attention when taking their photo
- Don’t forget the leash and poo bags
- Use a prop that brings a pop of color to your photos - a blanket, umbrella, or shawl all work well here
Bottom Line
- Be you
- Bring items unique to you and your family that tell your story
- Be comfortable
- Have fun!
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