How to Choose Outfits for Spring and Summer Sessions || Boston Family Photography
One of the many questions I get asked after a family books a session is “what should we wear?!” As a mom of two girls, I totally understand the stress that comes with trying to choose outfits. Coordinating clothes can be a daunting task, but I hope I can make the selection process easier with some simple suggestions.
First off, outfits do not need to be from expensive stores! Stores like Marshalls, TJ Maxx, Target, Old Navy, and H&M all have great choices. However, if you are in the mood to splurge, I’d recommend Carter’s or Hannah Andersson for kids (especially for patterned dresses) and Anthropologie or Mint Julep (for moms).
Second, I strongly encourage you to wear what you are comfortable in and what fits your personality and to coordinator outfits. Though you can certainly choose to have your kids wear matching dresses, vests, and shirts/pants, I’d recommend getting some variety in and having members complement one another.
Third, start with mom. Think about what dress, skirt, or pant/blouse options you love the most. I personally love midi or casual dresses that are all one color or lightly patterned and ankle length. If you choose patterns, I suggest everyone else wear solid colors. For kids, I recommend avoiding stripes/dots and patterns and logos that will distract from facial expressions or the scenery. If you want someone to wear patterns, select a pattern that isn’t going to distract from the smiles and backdrop and one that isn’t so visible, such as small flowers/animals, etc. If your kids are small, one pieces are a great choice, such as rompers, overalls, or dresses (though make sure to have under covers or tight shorts for dresses to avoid underwear creeping into shots). For dads, keep it simple! A plain shirt with khakis or jeans are ideal! Lastly, in terms of clothing choice, avoid everyone being in tops and pants to avoid the infamous “cut” or line in standing photos.
Fourth, keep color schemes in mind. Spring/summer sessions usually come with flowers in full bloom that are usually pink, white, and if we are lucky, some yellows, and the brightest landscape colors (lots and lots of lush and bright greens). As such, consider lighter colors – especially light/faded green (avoid the deeper greens that are similar to the color of grass), light blues, yellows, and pinks to complement most outdoor backgrounds. Here are some other popular colors schemes for the spring/summer:
- Denim and tan
- Glitter and white
- Blush and teal
- Blush and white
- Light blue, tan and white
- Light blue, yellow and white
- Tan and white
- Orange and teal
- Light blue, tan and white
- Blue, green and yellow
- Pink, light blue, blush
- Pink, orange, and white
Fifth, plan for a colder and warmer day by layering and choosing sweaters that continue to complement outfits. I often encourage clients to avoid any heavy jackets or even petticoats and choose mauve, beige, or white sweaters when the weather is slightly colder. If it's really cold, rest assured that you can put your jacket and warmer clothing right back on between a burst of shots! Lastly, do not stress alone! Once you book a session, I can help you choose outfits and offer specific suggestions as we move through the process together!
