One question that is posed often for family photos is..."What should we wear?" Ultimately, the decision is yours, however, here are some suggestions that might help you make choices you'll be pleased with for years to come.
Creating memories that will last a lifetime is a special event and the key to a happy session starts with prepping the group early. Begin by talking about colors in clothing, your look and style, and the "no-no's". By allowing groups members a little bit of choice during an open discussion, you'll have greater buy-in, they'll be happier during the shoot - and happiness comes across in the photos.
Next, talk about special locations. Whether you choose iconic Park City or a great grove of trees that can be "anywhere USA", we'll happily help you select that special place!
The time of day is very important in a group shot as well. Although we pack powerful strobes and shoot strobist style, no strobe can "beat" the harsh shadows cast by a noon day sun. Choose early morning or evening 1.5 hour prior to sunset for best results.
For large groups, we'll begin with the full group portrait, then move to the families with the youngest - and antsiest - children.
Clothing:
Coordinating clothing and colors always looks the best. That doesn't mean "matchy-matchy" if that's not your style. It means giving your group a color "trio" to work with. Plaid on one person makes that person stand out - especially if the rest of the group is wearing solids. However, if this is "balanced" with one other person wearing a similar toned plaid, that one will not stand out as much. Plaids can work - if color tones complement each other and the setting is right.
Bold patterns will take the eye from the faces in the photo to the clothing instead. For this reason, I discourage big bold patterns.
Also be wary of items deemed very trendy. If the portrait is to have a "life on the wall", you'll be happier without a trend that shouts the year.
Be careful of bright colors! The eye will go directly to the brightest spot in a photo AND those bright yellow, red, or orange pants. And, if you have teenage boys, watch the shoes! We are often asked if we can change the color of clothing items in post production. (See how that red jumped out at you from the top of this page?)
Ladies: watch out for plunging necklines, large button holes, and too much jewelry. Again, bold patterns and wild patterns are attention grabbers - so be wary of this, too. (I LOVE leopard print! But, I don't want to look like I'm on safari! If you must, choose one item with something fun.)
Be sure to check in with your group making sure EVERYONE is wearing SAME SEASON attire. For example - everyone is dressed for winter except for cousin Ali - she's wearing her favorite summer sundress.
RELAX!
Finally, if you, the organizer of the shoot is feeling stressed, the rest of the group will feel stressed as well. Talk up the session a few days before. Tell your group that you are "excited" and that this will be "fun". Get them thinking of a fun final photo of the family. It will only take a minute more and give kids something to look forward to!
Sites with great outfit choices:
Pinterest!
Polyvore (individuals)
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