How To Pick Clothes For A Photo Shoot

You booked your photo shoot and you are excited to update that outdated family photo hanging on the wall at home, but then you think "Wait.... what will we wear"? I've been a photographer for some time now and it always surprises me how stressed my clients will get over this question.

Today I'm sharing a few easy tips to make this task fun and doable.

1. Don't break the bank!

• I will admit that even I am tempted to buy all new clothes for my whole family when it comes to a photo shoot, because I love that "fresh new look". However you don't have to do this. Look around closets, pull out tucked away bins of seasonal clothing, or borrow a favorite sweater from a sibling. If you really want to buy something new, only buy one or two new things and add them to what you already have. Doing this can save you so much money in the long run.

2. Fall in love with a color combo

• One of the best decisions you can make for your photo shoot is to pick a color combo and base your clothes around it. It will make your family members look like a team and organized. I personally LOVE color and am always looking for something new. To help get your wheels turning I have put together a Pinterest Board and you can check it out HERE. 

• Remember, try and pick at least 3 colors to work with and DON'T go past 5. 3 different colors will bring life to a photo and 5 will look a little too busy and wash you all out.

3. Patterns and Solids

• Having fabrics such as stripes, florals, polka dots, checkers, and different shades of solid colors will add texture and depth to a photo. Not everyone needs to wear patterns, but having one or two people in the group will make the photo stand out in a great way. 

4. Layers

• A smart look to achieve are layers through colors and patterns. A solid green cardigan on top of a blue and white stripe shirt, a floral tie with a solid color shirt, or a polka dot dress with solid colors tights adds so much interest to the look. Plus if it's cold out... it will help you stay warm.  

5. Make them personal

• Bringing a homemade quilt to wrap up in, a letter for your last name to hold, or a chalkboard to write on will make your photos more personal and special.  

I hope these ideas help take the stress out of picking what to wear for your next photo shoot.
~H