Client Guide

Booked your session and wondering what to wear? I’ve got you covered. Whether it’s a full family session or a mini session, keeping outfits simple and coordinated always photographs beautifully. The tips below will help make choosing outfits easy and stress-free.

Color Palette

Keep it simple. The goal is for you and your family to be the focus, not the clothing. Choosing soft, coordinated tones helps create images that feel natural, beautiful, and timeless.

Spring Hues

Soft pastels and fresh greens to brighten your look.

Summer Shades

Bold blues and sunny yellows perfect for warm days.

Tips on choosing locations that complement your summer style.

Fall Tones

Effective

Items to dodge

🚫 Bright/neon colors (neon pink, bright red, highlighter yellow) - can reflect onto skin and alter tone accuracy

🚫 Logos, graphics, or text - distract from the subject and make photos feel less timeless

🚫 Yellow-greens in grassy or wooded areas - can cause camouflage effects

🚫 Busy patterns or bold prints - can be distracting and overwhelming

🚫 All-white or all-black outfits - can be too harsh or unflattering

🚫 Shiny or reflective fabrics - can create unflattering highlights

🚫 Over-accessorizing - can detract from the subject's face and overall look

✔️ Earthy, muted tones: soft blues, warm browns, sage greens, dusty pinks, creamy neutrals

✔️ Jewel tones: deep burgundy, forest green, navy

✔️ Mixing neutrals with a pop of color for a balanced look

✔️ Natural fabrics and textures - add depth and interest to photos

✔️ Simple, classic styles - tend to stand the test of time

✔️ Consider the location and dress accordingly (e.g., earth tones for outdoor shoots, richer tones for indoor shoots)

Patterns

Patterns can add interest to your photos when used thoughtfully. To avoid overwhelming the image, try these tips.

✔️ One person in a subtle, small-scale pattern
❌ Multiple people in bold, clashing patterns - it gets too busy

Use the pattern's colors as your palette and dress family members in complementary color
Keep it simple and clean: focus on emotion and connection, not busy prints
Opt for subdued colors, solids, and muted prints to keep the focus on your family

Textures

Textures add dimension and visual interest to photos. Try these:

  • Overalls (so cute on kiddos)

  • Cable-knit sweaters

  • Linen dresses/tops

  • Rompers

  • Anything with tassels or ruffles

  • Knit details

Textures break up solid colors and add richness.

The Right Fit

Shoes

✅ YES: Comfortable clothes = confident, natural-looking photos
❌ NO: Clothes that require constant adjusting (slipping straps, tight waistbands, stiff fabric)

  • Opt for outfits that fit well, don't distract

  • Consider bra straps, sleeve fit, and overall comfort

✅ What works well:

  • Neutral, non-distracting shoes (boots, mules, flats, simple sandals)

  • Well-kept sneakers in neutral tones

  • Barefoot for beach sessions

❌ What to avoid:

  • Light-up sneakers

  • Character shoes (Spiderman, Elsa, etc.)

  • Bright rainbow rain boots

  • Super worn-out Converse or scuffed sneakers

  • Flip-flops

Styling Tips

Hair and Makeup

  • Aim for coordinated, not matching

  • Use a cohesive color palette with subtle variations

  • Dress for the weather (layers are great!)

  • Check your closet before buying new outfits

  • Wear what makes you feel comfortable and confident

  • Style your hair and makeup as you normally do

  • Keep makeup natural and understated

  • Consider a blowout or professional makeup if that's your thing

  • Prioritize comfort and authenticity – it'll show in the photos!

Coordinated, Not Matching

A cohesive color palette with subtle variations creates a visually appealing and natural look. Incorporating a small pattern or texture on one individual can add interest, while ensuring the overall ensemble feels intentional without appearing overly staged.

Contact Us

A cozy workspace with a laptop, a cup of coffee, and a colorful seasonal outfit guide spread out on the table.
A cozy workspace with a laptop, a cup of coffee, and a colorful seasonal outfit guide spread out on the table.

Reach out if you have any questions or concerns.