STYLE GUIDE
I know this is long, but so is the foreverness of photos. Please read through this guide to ensure the most desired outcome for the final look of your images. Feel free to send me a message with any questions or to go through some options.
Additionally, the instagram accounts @styledbywi @style_and_select and @styledbymegt have some great tips and visual references for family outfit styling that are often season-specific.
CHOOSING COLOURS
Neutral, muted, and solid colours age beautifully in photographs. Patterns can look amazing too - just keep them classic and subtle rather than overly trendy or distracting. Avoid bright fabrics, tiny details, and thin stripes, as they don’t always translate well on camera. Avoid large logos or graphic prints.
Your outfits should complement each other, not match the each of the same clothing item colours exactly (same coloured shirts, etc.). Matching most colours too closely can cause you to appear as a big blob when positioned close together.
I’ve included a few other coordinating outfit examples and some suggested palettes at the end of this that will keep everyone looking cohesive while allowing each person’s individuality to shine.
CONSIDERATIONS:
ENVIRONMENT
Think about the setting of your session. Consider choosing colours that work with the environment/background while still allowing you to “pop.” Using the colour wheel can help, complementary tones (opposite each other on the wheel) make each colour stand out, use this while coordinating with each other and/or your environment.
Alternatively, more muted and neutral outfits that sort of 'blend in' to the environment (especially if outdoors) really help pull focus to your expressions rather than clothing, which is also a desirable outcome.
peRSONAL uNIQUENESS
We all have colours that enhance our natural features more than others. Skin tones, hair colour, eye colour, and personal style all play a role. If you have time, looking into colour analysis can help you find shades that truly flatter you!
desired outcome
Colours influence emotions. Warm tones create a sense of coziness and energy, while cool tones bring a feeling of calm and serenity. What vibe do you want your photos to have? Will these images be displayed in your home? Choose colours that you’ll love seeing for years to come.
Matching styles
Matching the overall vibe of your outfits is key! If one person is dressed up, like a man in khakis and a nice shirt, a flowy dress or polished outfit complements the look. On the other hand, if jeans and a plain shirt are in the mix, keep it casual across the board so everything feels cohesive.
It’s less about matching everything perfectly and more about making sure no one looks overdressed or underdressed compared to the rest! This is especially important when choosing outfits for children.
WHITES
There are many different shades/tones of whites and creams. This is something that I do want you to make sure is matching or coordinated properly. The camera can usually tell if someone is in a "clashing" white.
BUILDING YOUR OUTFITS:
STATEMENT PIECES AND PATTERNS
One way to build a colour palette is around a statement piece. If one or two people wear a patterned item, pull colours from that pattern to style the rest of the group. Limit patterns to one person for a partnership session and two people for a family session.
Patterns work best when they’re the foundation of your colour palette rather than an afterthought. If someone is wearing a multi-coloured pattern, choose solid pieces in those colours for everyone else. This keeps the look cohesive rather than chaotic.
A monochromatic approach also works beautifully, different (or very similar) shades of the same colour create a subtle, timeless aesthetic. Especially if they're all tied in to a pattern!
HELPFUL TIPS
Textures! Fabrics like knit or satin bring depth and richness to photos. Just make sure materials are solid and non-transparent (unless intentionally sheer for styling purposes).
Fit matters. Loose but structured clothing photographs best. Think flowy, not baggy. Avoid tight, restrictive outfits that limit movement and fluidity in photos.
Glasses & Glare. If you wear glasses daily but don’t want glare in your photos, consider popping out the lenses or grabbing a cheap pair of lens-free frames. I can’t always remove reflections in post, so this helps keep your photos distraction-free.
Undergarments. Avoid bright, bulky, or visible undergarments. If your outfit exposes your shoulders, go for a strapless or nude bra.
DON'T FORGET THE [NOT SO] TINY DETAILS:
accessories & final touches
Accessories should enhance, not overwhelm. Less is usually more! Plan ahead and remove anything that might be distracting (hair ties on wrists, smartwatches, etc.).
Hair. Go for a style that’s comfortable and natural to you. If you’re needing to constant adjust your hair, it may impact how relaxed you feel in the moment and limit the final photo options. If you choose an updo, make sure it can handle movement!
Shoes. For outdoor sessions, or if you plan on wearing shoes in studio, please keep in mind that they will be visible in some photos and can play a large part in the overall look. Please choose your shoes carefully and in line with the rest of the outfits. Please do not wear black shoes if there is no other black or dark colours in your outfits, doing so will pull the focus to your feet, and they are not where we want the attention to be.
Nails. A nice manicure or nothing! Whether polished or natural, well-kept nails always look great. Chipped polish or trendy colours can be distracting and might not age well in photos.
Makeup. Camera lighting tends to soften makeup, so a little enhancement goes a long way. Even if you don’t usually wear makeup, a touch of mascara and a bit of foundation or tinted moisturizer can help define your features. I’ll edit out temporary blemishes, but I don’t make major appearance changes in post-processing.
Clothing Wrinkles. I may do a bit of clothing wrinkle removal in my post processing, if needed. If an item is extremely wrinkled it may not be possible for me to fix this while keeping it looking natural. Additionally, highly textured or patterned clothing does not always do the best with this either, though lots of textured clothing usually looks a bit better in camera anyway, so it's not as much of a concern.
Outfits for Littles. I can remove a small stain or two if needed, but please keep in mind the extra work this requires. I totally understand that accidents happen! However, if your child has a snack on the way to or during your session and gets their outfit completely messy or face full of chocolate, I won’t be editing out those little mishaps. Please come prepared with an outfit to change into, wipes, bib, etc. if neccessary.
final thoughts:
The best photos come from feeling like your best self. Choose outfits that make you feel amazing, and let’s create something beautiful together! You are art.
As always, I am available if you'd like to message me about some questions. Anything from helping choose pieces for everyone down to a decision between two shirts.