Family portraits elicit memories of past events, places, and most importantly, loved ones, but getting everyone together for a portrait session takes planning….and what to wear is always part of that plan.

We often get asked, “Do you have any suggestions on what to wear?” Why, yes we do! After years of working with groups of all sizes, we have compiled a list of tips we hope help in your wardrobe selection.

First Things First

What is the main goal of any photography session? To record the subject as we see it…..and to create an art-worthy portrait you want hanging on your wall.

With any portrait, the viewer’s attention should go to the face first with the skin tone being either the lightest or darkest tone in the portrait. With a light toned background, you want light colored clothing. With a dark toned background, you want dark colored clothing.

What the Camera Sees in Your Wardrobe Color Selection

While we see everything in color, a camera measures tonality. See the gray scale chart? That’s what the camera’s light meter reads in your clothing—how dark or how light it is, not the color.

Keeping color selections in similar tonal shades rather than having extreme variations helps balance the exposure, maintaining clothing detail.

Where does the eye go immediately when looking at the portrait below? To the faces. Why? Clothing is in similar tones—not exact matching colors.

You have heard the phrase “a picture is worth a thousand words.” Here are our top nine wardrobe selection tips….using images (with just a few words!).

Choosing your Colors

Stick to a color palette but you don’t have to match color values exactly. While you may not want everyone to wear a bold color, a pop or two of color adds interest.

What about Patterns?

Avoid large graphics and logos but don’t be afraid of pattern. A little (small) pattern is a good thing. (Also notice the “pop” of color!)

Style, Style, Style…..

Opt for classic rather than super trendy for timeless photos.

The Skinny on Shirts

Wear long or ¾ length sleeved shirts. Bare arms draw attention away from the face.

Let’s Look at Legs?….or Pants

Long or Capri length work best as bare legs draw attention away from the face.

When Feet are Part of the Portrait

Wear shoes that can easily be slipped off for a barefoot look but shoes should be the same tone as the outfit so they do not stand out.

Jewelry? Or Not?

Avoid large pieces, as they can be distracting. The jewelry worn in this portrait is simple and adds to rather than distracts from the image.

‘Tis the Season

Don’t be afraid to dress for the season, especially cold weather. Shedding coats on a cold day just to reveal wardrobe selection can create stiff poses as you huddle together for warmth. Make coats and scarves part of your plan.

Spring and Summer	Fall and Winter

Color Coordination for Family Reunions

From dressy to casual to t-shirts and shorts, grouping families by color sets each individual family apart. Even with varying tones in these images, a skilled photographer can make it work.

Don’t be afraid to use color, pattern, and texture when deciding what to wear. Hopefully these tips will make your family portrait wardrobe selection easy and stress-free.