Your family session is coming up soon, but you’re not sure how to plan outfits for your entire family? I’m here to give you tips on what to wear!

This outfit guide will assist you in creating the perfect color palette based on the season. Having these pictures to look back on will be so worth it. Let’s get straight into the tips so that you don’t dread the planning process:

1. Pick a color palette for your family! Choosing 3 colors is a perfect way to get some diversity instead of just wearing the same color. This is especially helpful for extended family sessions since you won’t be able to plan everyone’s outfits. Tell them the 3 colors they’re allowed to wear, including black, then I will pose you all to make the colors mesh well! I would recommend picking ones that coordinate with the season your photos are going to be in.
2. Keep the formality level consistent throughout! If momma is wearing heels and rented a dress from Rent the Runway, be sure that dad isn’t wearing a v-neck and blue jeans.
3. Stray away from graphics, logos, baseball hats, and having everyone wear a different pattern! If you’re wearing a floral dress, maybe have your partner wear a plain colored button-up. If everyone is wearing different flannels or florals, it can get a little distracting. Try to keep it simple! If you have a dress that you love, then base your family’s outfits around it! Have them all dress in different colors found in your outfit’s pattern.
4. Wear comfy but stylish shoes! Stay away from tennis shoes, flip flops, and crocs all altogether since their logos can be overpowering and overall are too casual. Find something that is easy to walk in, such as flats, neutral Vans, boots, oxford’s, Kork-Ease, or loafers. I love to move around and play during family sessions, so try not to put your kiddos in shoes that you’re not okay with getting a little dirt on them! Mamma’s if you can walk in heels, then go for it! Keep in mind, that shoes can make or break an outfit and they will show in the pictures. Short booties are always my go-to!
5. Bring lip-balm for the whole family! In Spokane, Washington chapped lips are common all year round between the frigid winters and hot summers. Peeling and cracked lips will show up in pictures, so bring some to apply in the car.
6. I would avoid wearing bright yellow or white if you have a fairer skin tone unless you layer it with a darker open sweater, overalls, or jean jacket. I want to make sure you’re not washed out, so when in doubt bring a cute jacket to layer.

Fall: If you’re having photos in the fall, burgundy, navy blue, burnt orange, and olive green are always great options! You’re able to pop against the fall foliage while still matching the overall feel of the season. I would avoid wearing all bright yellow if you have a fairer skin tone unless you layer it with a darker open sweater, overalls, or scarf. I want to make sure you’re not washed out which is why white is a color I would try to avoid.

Spring/Summer: The possibilities for having your session in the spring or summer are endless since the backdrop will likely be green!

If you have a family session scheduled feel free to send me pictures if you need help deciding! I’m always happy to provide you with input. 🙂

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