Tips for sucessful wardrobe

Group photos are an important way to document relationships. Whether it is a relationship between a couple, family, or larger group, similar rules apply for getting the best photo results.

1. COORDINATE—DON’T MATCH

Current trends have left behind the group photo where everyone was wearing the exact same thing (i.e. blue jeans and a white shirt) and changed to a coordination mentality. This means that you may have a few colors in your color scheme and the group chooses their clothing based on those colors. This method allows for more creativity and individuality.

2. SOLIDS AND LARGE PATTERNS

Solid colors paired with large patterns, textures or stripes will look spectacular. If you prefer a dreamy look, choose pastel colors, off-whites, and soft prints. If you are wanting to achieve a dramatic look, choose colors that are bright and bold. Don’t be shy about mixing colors/patterns. Be creative.

3. AVOID SMALL PRINTS

Small, tight prints and stripes do not photograph well. The camera reads them and creates it’s own unique pattern called “moire” and it isn’t desirable.

4. CHOOSE LOOSE AND FLOWY OVER TIGHT

Fabric that has movement creates intrest in an image. Also clothes that are too tight can make you appear larger then you are in a photo they are usually uncomfortable and limit the poses you can do. Loose doesn’t mean baggy and shapeless, look for dresses that create a beautiful waistline and are flattering from all angles even when you are sitting or laying down.

5. MINIMIZE ACCESSORIES

With more people taking the spotlight, this rule is even more important. Too many accessories will take away the spotlight from the group and relationship being photographed.

6. SAY “NO” TO BRAND LOGO T-SHIRTS

It is possible that this is more a personal preference than a rule. Logo t-shirts are fine for everyday, but they will quickly date a photo and will distract from the subject and relationships.

7. BUILD YOUR OUTFITS

I recommend finding clothing with a lot of visual interest. Look for clothing tops with lots of texture, layers, and ruffles. Pair these textures and layers with something simple on the bottom. Avoid dressing children in clothing that will make them look like a small adult (unless that is the style you are going for.) Subjects young and old will photograph best in something that they feel comfortable and confident in!

8. LAY THE COMPLETE LOOK OUT & TRY IT ON

This seems like a given but so many people wait till right before the session to try on the clothes. Kids clothes are way too big or dont even fit anymore and Dad showes up in a brand new shirt that is unflattering. You want to make sure you lay everything out together and see how it looks before the day of. This gives you time to change it up or swap pieces out. You want to make sure clothing is easy to move in and you can sit down comfortably. Clothing too tight can make you look bigger then you are, dresses and shirts that are loose and flowy will add movement and visual interest. Flowy dresses with a belt are very flattering in photos. For men and older boys I preffer a nice athletic fit solid shirt with tailored fitting pants, denim or colored jeans. Pants that are too loose can make you look sloppy and pants that are too tight restrict movement. Please be mindful of everyones shoes, a pair of ugly tennis shoes will ruin a photo! Heels are ok if you choose an urban location and boots are perfect for a natural location.

baltic born

Beautiful dresses with great options for bump friendly. They even have a few girls dresses that coordinate for that mommy and me look.

Baltic Born

Hats

Hats can add so much impact and interest to a session it gives you an added element to manipulate and pose with. If you are camera shy it can give you a place to put your hands and even can help block out the sun.

willandbear Amazon Tillys Urban Outfitters

zara

Great source for basics for the entire family. There is also a store at the Galleria and North Park shopping Mall.

www.zara.com

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