A Guide to Choosing the Perfect Outfits for your Portrait Session
Hello, lovely families! Welcome to Heidi Knight Photography, where we believe that every family has a unique story to tell through photographs. One of the most common questions I receive from clients is, "What should we wear for our family session?" The truth is, the answer isn't one-size-fits-all because it depends on your family's personality, the location of the session, and the season. In this blog post, I'll guide you through the art of choosing the perfect outfits for your family photos.
Understanding Color Theory
Color plays a pivotal role in photography, impacting the overall mood and aesthetic of your images. Consider these essential principles of color theory:
Harmonious Hues: Opt for colors that complement each other. You can use a color wheel to find complementary colors easily. Complementary colors, like blue and orange or red and green, create a pleasing contrast in your photos.
Neutrals: Neutrals such as whites, grays, and earthy tones can be paired with bold colors to create a balanced look.
Seasonal Palettes: Reflect the season in your clothing choices. For fall, warm, earthy tones like rust, deep greens, and warm browns can enhance the cozy, autumnal vibe of your photos.
Using the Color Wheel for Complementary Colors
The color wheel is a valuable tool for finding complementary colors. Here's a quick guide on how to use it:
color wheel to understand color theory
Identify Your Dominant Color: Start by choosing one dominant color for your family's outfits. This could be a color that complements your skin tone or one that represents your family's personality.
Find Its Complement: On the color wheel, the color directly opposite your dominant color is its complementary color. For example, if your dominant color is blue, its complement is orange.
Incorporate Complementary Colors: Use the complementary color as an accent in your outfits. This could be through accessories like scarves, ties, or even a single statement piece of clothing. For instance, if your dominant color is blue, you can add pops of orange through accessories to create visual interest.
Style and Personality
Your family's clothing should reflect your unique personality and style. Here's how to match your outfits to your family's character:
Casual and Relaxed: Opt for jeans, plaid shirts, or cozy sweaters. This style is great for capturing those candid, playful moments.
Classic Elegance: Dress in timeless outfits like tailored suits, dresses, or elegant blouses. This style works well for formal family portraits.
Boho Chic: Flowy dresses, patterned skirts, and accessories like hats or scarves can create a relaxed, bohemian look perfect for outdoor sessions.
Coordinating Without Matching
Gone are the days of everyone wearing the exact same color or outfit. Instead, aim for coordinated ensembles that blend well together:
Color Scheme: Choose a color scheme for your family and incorporate it into each member's outfit. For example, if your theme is "earthy tones," one person might wear a rust-colored dress, another a forest green sweater, and so on.
Textures and Layers: Mix textures and layers to add depth to your photos. Think lace, denim, or chunky knits for added visual interest.
Accessories: Coordinating accessories like scarves, hats, or statement jewelry can tie your family's outfits together beautifully.
Fall Fashion Inspiration
Fall is a magical season for family photos, and dressing accordingly can elevate your pictures to another level. Here are some fall fashion ideas:
Layers: Embrace the chill with layered outfits. Think cardigans, vests, or chunky knit sweaters that add warmth and style.
Cozy Scarves: Scarves not only keep you warm but also make for stylish and photogenic accessories. Choose autumnal colors or even plaid patterns for a touch of charm.
Footwear: Boots, booties, and warm, stylish socks can complete your fall look while keeping you comfortable during the session.
Remember, the most important thing is for your family to feel comfortable and confident in their outfits. When you feel good, it shows in your photos. Don't forget to iron or steam your clothes and check for any wrinkles before the session.
At Heidi Knight Photography, I'm here to help you capture your family's unique essence. With thoughtful outfit choices, we can create stunning memories that you'll cherish for years to come. If you have any questions or need personalized guidance, feel free to reach out to me.
Let's make your family's photography session an unforgettable experience, filled with laughter, love, and the beauty of your unique bond. Book your session today, and together, we'll create art that tells your family's story. We have just a few spots left in our 2023 session calendar. Be sure you're on it by contacting us today!
Warmest wishes,
Heidi Knight Heidi Knight Photography
