Today I want to give you a few Do’s and Don’ts for styling yourself and your family for portraits. I know it’s something a lot of families stress over but it truly is something you can have fun with.

Don’t do matchy matchy. The days of everyone perfectly matching is finally over! Praise the Lord! It was not a good phase.

Do coordinate your wardrobe.

• In order to do this pick 2-4 colors that go well together.
  • If you need help picking out colors, look around your home. The ultimate goal of a family portrait session is to have beautiful art for your home. What colors would look best with your decor?
  • You can also take a look at one of my Pinterest boards for some color palette ideas.
  • Another choice, pick a color that works best on you. Then pick 2-3 colors that work well with that color.
  • Last option, ask your photographer! They will know what colors work well with the location and time of year of your session.

Don’t wear neon or super bright colors. It can cause a color cast on the skin. It also takes the viewers eye away from the subject.

Do wear pops of color. Keep a majority of your wardrobe neutral but use pops of color. For example, if momma is in a white dress, dad is in khaki pants and a light colored shirt, you can add someone else in a pop of teal or mustard or maroon.

Don’t wear graphics or logos. It draws attention away from the subject.

Do use textures, patterns and layers. Simple, light patterns for one, maybe two people is great. Layers look amazing in portraits. Some examples are sweaters, kimonos, chunky socks, suspenders, jewelry. Textures can also make your session come to life.

Need a little more information and some more visual cues? Check out this IGTV video.