The most common question I am asked by my clients preparing for their photo session is, "What should we wear? The way I always answer that question is, "Keep it simple!" Your images should reflect you and your family and the love you share together. Your clothing shouldn't distract, but should enhance your images.

1. Coordinate but don't match

Wear plain clothing that is color coordinating! Just try not to have everyone wearing the exact same thing. A photo of everyone wearing blue jeans and white shirts will look flat and dated, but varying the shades of blues and whites with different clothing styles such as dresses, skirts, jeans, etc. will look coordinated and polished.

2. Avoid prints and graphics

Avoid crazy prints and graphics! Solid color/textured clothing is best. I would not recommend clothes with words, branding or cartoon characters.

3. Choose your colors wisely and think about the time of year

My rule of thumb is that neutral tones look great year round.

Stick to muted tones versus bright colors for spring and summer. Red, for example, creates a color cast on your skin that is unnatural and unflattering. Coral, on the other hand, is kind to your skin tone and looks great on camera. Try mint green, mauve, coral, robin's egg blue, baby pink, taupe or ivory. 

For fall sessions, emerald green, navy blue, deep purples and rich browns can look warm and cozy.

Avoid black if at all possible. Black colored clothing attracts lint and hair and is an editing nightmare for your photographer. It also doesn't photograph well. 

4. Think about your home decor

Imagine your photos printed and framed in your home. Will your outfits match your decor? Or will they clash?

5. Choose a dress or flowy skirt for females

The most photographable outfit for ladies/girls are dresses or flowy skirts with texture (ie: lace). They look feminine and sway in the breeze. It is not uncommon for me to have you twirl your daughter or run in a field. Having a beautiful, flowy dress on gives a dreamy, styled look to your images! Please note: if girls are wearing a short skirt or dress, please make sure they have shorts/leggings underneath! 

6. Business casual works best for men

Khaki or jean shorts or pants with a light colored linen shirt or plain colored tee shirt looks great in photos. If you want to dress it up a little, a collared button down with dress pants also works! Sport coats or sweaters are also a great option.

7. Don't forget about your footwear!

Yes, your feet will be in many of the photos! Party shoes, jellies or nice sandals for girls is the best option. For women -- heels, sandals or nice flats work best. Dress shoes or boat shoes for men and boys are recommended.

Light-up shoes, character sneakers (example: Paw Patrol), running sneakers or dirty shoes are not recommended.

For beach sessions or at-home sessions, I recommend bare feet or a fresh pair of clean socks with no holes.

8. Be smart about your accessories

Apple/smart watches are not recommended. Dress watches are fine. Keep jewelry to a minimum and don't forget to take your hair tie off your wrist! A straw hat or cowboy hat can add to your outfit while a baseball hat looks like you didn't have time to do your hair!

9. Be sure to groom everyone!

It may seem like a given, but make sure everyone is groomed and photograph ready! A fresh haircut, clean and styled hair, professional makeup and a fresh manicure can give a polished look to your photos. Don't forget to brush your teeth and apply lip balm to the whole family. Photo editing can only do so much!