Black and white family portraits are making a stylish comeback, and at Heidi Knight Custom Portraits, we understand the importance of capturing timeless moments. Dressing appropriately plays a key role in achieving stunning black and white family photos, and our tips ensure you make the right wardrobe choices for your session.

Elevate Your Look for a Classic Feel

Embrace the classy ambiance of black and white photography by dressing with sophistication. Aim for a polished appearance, akin to dressing for a nice restaurant outing. While formality isn't necessary, opt for well-chosen, elegant attire. Long sleeves often complement the aesthetic better than short sleeves.

Opt for Subtle Textures and Tones

To enhance the texture and tones in your black and white photos, choose clothing with subtle patterns or textures. Solid colors work exceptionally well, avoiding distracting patterns that might divert attention. Jeans, with each family member in slightly different denim shades, add texture and create a diverse range of gray tones for depth.

Keep it Simple, Minimize Distractions

Resist the temptation to over accessorize; simplicity is key in black and white family portraits. Steer clear of flashy jewelry, hats, or sunglasses that may divert attention from the main focus – you and your family. While these items can be lively in color photos, they are best left at home for a black and white session.

Coordinate, Don't Match

Uniformity in outfits can lead to a lack of contrast in your pictures. Instead, opt for complementary styles and color schemes to create a cohesive yet diverse look. Let each family member express their unique style while maintaining an overall harmonious appearance.

Best Color Schemes for Black and White Elegance

DO NOT WEAR RED

Considering that your photos will appear in varying shades of gray, choose color schemes that complement each other. Earth tones, such as royal blue, burgundy, and hunter green, work well for achieving rich tones and textures in black and white family photos. Other nice options are charcoal, light gray or cream, although our personal favorites are the darker tones.

Dress in Layers

Dressing in layers is always a good idea, this allows you to have different looks without much effort. It’s pretty amazing how a jacket or cardigan can change the mood of your images.

Wear Comfortable Shoes

Choosing the perfect shoes is crucial for any outfit. Make sure that your wedges or flats are not only comfortable but also practical. And of course, make sure that whatever shoes you choose match your outfit!

Versatility with Multiple Outfits

Similar to color family photos, bringing multiple outfits to your session adds variety and ensures your family's personality shines through. It also serves as a practical solution in case of spills or accidents during the shoot.

General tips for family portraits.

Dark colours and figure skimming clothing make you look thinner. Baggy clothing should be avoided, investing in slimming undergarments and shapewear is a worthwhile expense.

If you choose to go with bare feet, make sure to trim and clean those toenails. Ladies should also take a last-minute look at fingernails for fingernail polish. The chipped polish will show up in the portrait if the hands are showing.

If you get a haircut, do it a week before the session. Hair should not be blocking the eyes so bring a hair clip to keep it from falling down into the eyes. 

At Heidi Knight Custom Portraits, our commitment is to bring your family to life in every photo. Throughout our customer journey, we collaborate with you to understand your preferences, discuss goals, offer wardrobe guidance, and provide a touch of retouching for natural, beautiful images. We assist you with designing and installing your wall portraits. And, we employ cutting-edge equipment and the latest techniques to create fine art that is uniquely yours.