'What do we wear?'
This is the first question most of you ask me after you book a photo session with me. Whether it is an Engagement Session, a Family Portrait Session, a documentary session, or an individual portrait, I see it. If you don't ask me, I know you're asking yourself that question while staring into the void of your closet. (Don't worry - I have done the same thing.)
Seeing that it is that time again, FALL... I figured it was a good time to go over the things that make coordinating pretty easy.
FIRST: COORDINATE, Don't match.
You are not a team. You are a family. Putting everyone in the same shirt and jeans not only dates the image but also makes the end image flat. Instead, Coordinate. These 4 rules will ensure that your coordination is on point:
Start with a pattern and pull colors from them. The photo above has two flannel shirts; the rest of the family pulled colors from them and wore solids. Try to repeat the colors as little as possible, and when you do, use textures.
Using textures. Fall and winter are the best for textures - You see above that there are two tan sweaters, but one has a horizontal texture. There is also a green vest next to a green flannel - the texture of the vest keeps her standing out against the similar color flannel, but you get the idea that they are a couple.
Complementary colors. You will encounter patterns that don't have enough color to pull from; instead, use a complementary color to compensate. The tan brown/Khaki color in the photo above complements the blues that tie the image together.
Add a pop of color. In this image, it is the yellow sweater. You can do this by picking a color that is muted (the tan) and choosing one piece that is the more joyful tone (a warm yellow).
SECOND: Think of where you are using these images.
Your photos are art and should be displayed. Look at the decor and colors of the room(s) where these images will live for a while. Stick with a similar aesthetic so that it is cohesive in its end location.
THIRD: Think of the location of the photos.
What you wear should complement the location. Fall can be muted greens or bright and vibrant colors. Trees exposed to the sun will change their color before those in the interior of a forest. The image above was taken in Chicago on October 30th a few seasons ago. There is still a decent amount of green, but the yellow that you see through the trees is the outer trees that have turned.
The mother wore colors that stood out against the muted green and golden yellow - the terra cotta dress was perfect. Dad wore a darker green and faded into the background in parts. They looked great together, but in the darker areas of the woods, he did not stand out as much.
FORTH: When in doubt - go neutral.
Are colors too much?? Or you don't really have that much color in your day-to-day wardrobe? Go with neutrals! Tan, creams, black, greys - they are all still beautiful and stunning when done right. Use textures, layers, and accessories to make your outfits fun and seasonal.
LASTLY: What not to wear... no exceptions.
Logos and words - nope. Tell dad he can change into his college football t-shirt when it is over. Trust me when I say the end results are always better when there are no words, logos, or letters in the way.
Leave the gym shoes at home. I don't mean you have to wear your heels and shiny dress shoes, but if you have sweat or cut the grass in them - they do not belong in a family portrait. They never look right and often don't have the fall/ winter vibes.
Avoid overly bright or neon colors. They tend to reflect back on other colors and lighter skin tones. It's never flattering.
Transition glasses. I get it - trust me, I wear glasses, and that is a nice feature to be able to see when it is bright - but not when you're getting your photo taken. Bring regular glasses or a case to protect them during photos.
Wrinkles and lint. Iron or steam your clothes - even your cotton tees before you get dressed and use a lint roller. The camera can see things that you can not.
Save this post - It will be helpful. I can't wait to see everyone's smiling faces this fall. I am honored to travel to three states - maybe four, to capture memories all over.
Happy Fall. - V
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