Heather Michelle
Photography
I know how overwhelming it can be deciding what to wear for photos. I have learned a lot through trial and error during my years of being a photographer. So I put a guideline together to help you look amazing, feel comfortable, and to get the most out of your photos. Remember that this guideline is just that - a guideline. Feel totally free to show up in whatever you want, and skip my guideline completely! You guys could all show up in potato sacks for all I care. Ultimately, it's most important that you to feel comfortable, and like yourselves.
Scroll on down, and let's get started!
What To Wear Guide
Here's a few things to help you get started:
First off, I want to reiterate that it's most important that you look like yourselves. How your normally dress is your best bet. A lot of families feel like the have to go shopping, and buy all new clothes for their shoot, and that's so not true. Bring stuff that you normally wear, stuff that's already in your closet that you love and feel like you in. It'll be a lot more real to look back on in 20 years. Plus, guys aren't usually real stoked about putting on collared ironed button ups if they're used to wearing ripped jeans and sweaters or flannels every day. They will be more happy to be at the shoot if they don't have to wear an outfit they feel uncomfortable in. I will say that tailored, slim fitting jeans/pants do tend to photograph better on a guy as opposed to loose, baggy pants. So have him bring a few of his slimmer pairs along.
Which brings me to my next point, bring options. To get the best results, I will help you decide on which outfit will compliment each other and the location. Just make sure that whatever you bring, is something that you feel like a million bucks in! Two to three tops, and two bottoms would be plenty. Bring a dress or two if you want as well. If you only want to wear one outfit that's totally okay! Just be sure to send me a photo of your choices, so I can be sure it'll look great with the location we chose. I know it can be much easier to plan ahead with small children.
Make sure it makes sense
Think about the locations, and the conditions that we will be shooting in. If we are going to be walking through the woods, wear comfortable shoes that you can hike around in. If we are going to be shooting on the beach, plan on being barefoot (It looks best, promise!). If it is going to be snowy and cold, plan on wearing layers, warm socks, and boots. I almost never recommend heels, unless you can manage in them! If it's going to be crazy hot, dress in breathable clothes that'll keep you cool. Remember, comfort is key! Especially with little kiddos!
Colors
Sticking with neutral, earthy tones is your best bet. When most people think neutral they think white, grey, cream, brown. Remember, there are also neutrals of every color! Mustard yellow, deep burgundy red, navy blue, forest green, burnt orange, etc. Try to stay away from bright, distracting colors. Avoid pink, red, and orange if you have a lighter skin tone. These colors will take away from your skin tone in photographs.
Patterns
Avoid big, crazy patterns. Simple florals like the photo to the right (or below if you're on mobile), or flannels are great! Also, avoid pairing patterns. If one wears a pattern, the other should stick to a solid to keep things from being distracting.
I LOVE when families bring along hats, scarves, jewelry, headbands, suspenders, or anything else that will add personality and interest to their photos!
Accessories
Props
When most people think props - they think cheesy. Props don't have to be chalkboards, and wooden Mr & Mrs signs. They can be flowers, a blanket picnic, or even a furry friend. Props are not a must, but if you have something you want to incorporate into your photos, I'm all for it!
Hair and Makeup
Lastly, let's talk about hair and makeup. If you want to get your hair and makeup done by a pro - do it. However, I do not think it is necessary at all. Do what feels right for you!
That's it for my what to wear guide. If you have any questions at all, do not hesitate to ask! Remember. You do you, and your shoot will be perfect.