Elena Walsh | Sydney Lifestyle Photographer

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What to wear for your family photos?

Everyone asks what will look great for their family photo session – you’re not alone. Where to start? Make sure you feel comfortable – wear something that makes you feel good, and that feels like you, whatever your style. However, if like most people, you’re second guessing what you’ll all wear, here’s some tips on making your images look great.

  • When it comes to colours and patterns, co-ordinate your family rather than having everyone matching. Start with yourself and work from there with colours that compliment. Dads and sons tend to be simpler to style as they have less options – shirt/t-shirt, shorts or trousers - easy. 

  • I know black is super popular, but it doesn’t photograph that well – it can look a bit lumpy and heavy in outdoor locations – a little is ok but not a whole outfit. 

  • Satin and knits look great, and flowy fabrics work really well if it’s windy

  • Off-white is very flattering, where ice white can be a bit bright and unforgiving

  • If your kids like to dress up in tutus, go for it! Maybe not full on superheros, but a gorgeous tutu looks very sweet. 

  • Aim for a balance between making an effort with outfits, but not looking too formal or dressed up. Grab the iron - if someone’s wearing a crumpled shirt that needed ironing, you’ll see that standing out in the photos for years to come. For inspo, think of planning what you’d wear to go for a nice lunch.

  • The same works for hair and makeup – if you’re a black eyeliner or red lipstick girl, go for it, otherwise keep your makeup natural but enough to look polished.

  • If your child/children have a favourite top or outfit and it’s not going to be glaring or clashing with the rest of the family, let them wear it. Recalling how often, or how much they loved that item of clothing adds to the memory of the photos.

  • Avoid clothes with big images or large logos (they date), or fluro colors as they’re too vivid and will reflect an unflattering shade on the face.

  • Plan for shoes for everyone and dress for the location – it could be barefoot on the beach (but still take shoes), but if you’re in the city or bush/mountains, you’ll need to dress accordingly. 

  • Take some selfies or get someone to take a shot of you in your outfit so you can see how the colour/shape works in photos. You might find the neckline isn’t how you imagined, or the colour looks washed out, or decide you’ve nailed it and it looks fab!

Pregnancy shoots

  • Have a think about the feel you’d like for your pics. If it’s something simple and graphic, go for a simple solid coloured swimsuit or bikini, or for more of an ethereal look, try a sarong or large scarf with bikini bottoms. 

  • We’ve been using satin dresses which look amazing in photos, so that’s another great option.

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