Let's be honest, "what do we wear?" is the question everyone has about a photo session, I get it. You want everyone to look good, you don't want to match like you're in a catalog, and you definitely don't want someone showing up in a neon shirt that makes the whole photo look like a circus. 😂
So let's break it down simply; no fluff, just real practical advice from a momma who photographs real Indiana families.
The Golden Rule: Coordinate, Don't Match
Your family in Fayette County or any other county in Indiana shouldn't look like they all bought the same outfit from the same store. Pick one main color and build around it. Think of it like a puzzle, everyone needs to fit together without being identical. Trust me it photographs SO much better and honestly looks more natural and real.
💡 Sara's tip: Pick one person's outfit first, usually the person who's hardest to dress (cough, toddler, cough) and build everyone else around them. And if you're worried about what happens when that toddler loses it at the session, read this first.
What to Avoid No Matter What
- Busy logos and large graphics. They pull attention away from your faces
- Stripes. They do weird things on camera
- All white or all black outfits. Too harsh in photos
- Neon colors. They cast color onto skin and look jarring
- Everyone in the exact same outfit. This isn't a school photo day 😄
Layers and Textures Are Your Best Friend
Denim jackets, flannels, linen shirts, chunky knits: these add depth and dimension to photos without being distracting. A simple layered outfit always photographs better than a plain t-shirt. This is especially true for our beautiful Indiana fall sessions!
And don't forget shoes. They show up more than you think. Mismatched footwear/socks has ruined many an otherwise perfect family photo. Check the shoes. I'm serious. 😄
Your Seasonal Color Guide
What works in October doesn't work in June. Here's your complete guide by season so your photos feel like YOUR season, whether you're booking in Connersville, Brookville, Richmond or anywhere in between.
🌸 Spring
Blush · Sage Green · Lavender · Cream · Soft Yellow · Dusty Blue
Light layers and florals. Avoid anything too bright or neon.
☀️ Summer
Coral · Sky Blue · Mint · Peach · Warm Tan · White accents
Lightweight linen and cotton. Avoid dark heavy colors.
🍂 Fall
Burnt Orange · Mustard Yellow · Burgundy · Olive Green · Rust · Cream
My favorite season! Flannels, denim jackets, scarves. The colors do all the work.
❄️ Winter
Navy · Forest Green · Cranberry · Plum · Camel · Ivory
Chunky knits and coats add gorgeous texture. Avoid all black.
One Last Thing: Comfort Matters
If you feel good you will look good. Don't put your toddler in something scratchy and uncomfortable and then wonder why they're miserable in every photo. (And if you're already worried your kids will derail the whole session, Wild Kids Welcome is your sign to book anyway.) 😂 Dress everyone in something they can actually move and play in. We're not standing still, we are living!
When your kids are comfortable and you feel confident in what you're wearing, the real magic happens. That's when you get the photos that end up on your walls forever.