A guide for on location sessions

Capturing precious moments is meant to be fun. Family outdoor photography should be about capturing the moment and the chemistry of the family. That can’t happen unless people are comfortable in their own skin and with what they’re wearing. Worrying about what to wear and how it will look is understandable. So, let's take some of the stress out of the photoshoot with this guide.

1. Choosing the right colours for a family outdoor photoshoot in Brisbane

Begin by selecting light plain outfits with neutral colours.

Once you’ve got the neutral colours sorted, you can then consider adding some variation. A variety of dark, warm and earthy colours mixed with maroon, blue, brown and mustard shades will provide contrast without becoming overpowering.

 

 Mustard, blue and navy shades

 

 

Other colour pallets

Pattern selection

You need to be careful here as too many patterns can distract the eye and reduce the photo’s impact. Try to keep the patterned clothing down to one statement piece (perhaps mum’s floral dress) Then aim to complement that piece by keeping the rest of the family’s clothing reasonably simple.

 

Bright white

White looks great to the naked eye but when it comes to photographs it sometimes can have the effect of washing out complexions. Ivory and cream colours make better choices for an outdoor session.

 

Mute bright colours

We all love bright colours but unfortunately when worn in portraits, they tend to draw attention from the face. They also can be reflective. It is best to not wear bright red, hot pink, emerald green etc. If you must wear these colours go for the muted shade of the same colour. Dark red will work much better than bright red. Mustard will photograph better than bright yellow.

 

2. What to wear to professional photography sessions for family photos

 

Mums

Linen or lace maxi dresses simply look sensational in professional outdoor photoshoots. 

Young kids and babies

Romper, dress … 

 

 
Dads

The key is to appear natural and comfortable with natural fabrics. There’s nothing worse than trying to keep a shirt tucked in while playing with the kids, so choose clothes that are meant to be worn untucked. Choose slim fit jeans, polo shirts with short sleeves. Save us all the pain of seeing ugly phone and wallet outlines in your pockets please! 

 

Shoes are important!

Often overlooked, footwear is a key element in making or breaking the overall look - so choose wisely.

 

Accessory

Family photography in a way is about storytelling and we don’t want to distract from your family’s essential story by accessorising. Minimal simple accessories can work well, but highly noticeable accessories can distract and intrude. Scarves and hats work well and hats for boys can add that finishing touch.

 

3. What NOT to wear to a family outdoor photography session!

 

Colour coordination is really important, however, that doesn’t mean that everyone should be wearing matching clothes.

There should be some variation in both colours and styles. You don’t want a family photograph where everyone seems to be wearing a blue jean uniform.

Avoid prints including logos and graphics. These will become a distraction.

 

Don’t choose trendy items

Family photos help to tell the story of your life. When you look at the photo in ten years time you want to treasure the picture and the memory. That’s hard to do when you’re thinking “what possessed me to wear that?”

Likewise, formal items are probably not suitable for an outdoor session. Leave the tux and the gladbags for a more formal occasion.

4. Other tips for a successful Brisbane family photography session:

Perhaps the most important takeaway is that you’re going to look good if you feel good. Make sure that the clothes that you choose will not restrict your movement, while maintaining your comfort level. Clothing that won’t require a lot of adjustment during the photoshoot is a must.

Be true to yourself and wear something that reflects who you are.

Consider having your hair and makeup done professionally prior to the photo session. This can have a big impact on not only how you look but on how you feel about yourself.

Make sure all haircuts have been taken care of two weeks before the date of the photoshoot.

Pack a spare set of clothes for any little ones in the family just in case the set that they’re wearing gets dirty.

Of course, you will want to display your family photo in a prominent place. It pays to review your home decor to ensure that the clothing you choose for the photoshoot will blend in with whatever rooms that you’re thinking of displaying your photo in.

To make sure that you and the photographer are on the same page it is helpful to make up a Pinterest board of photos that you like, so that you can share them with the photographer.

Finally, let us just say that we understand how precious memories are and that as a Brisbane family photographer, I can work with you and your family to capture every stage of your life.

 

Some stores to shop for family session outfits

• H&M
• Target
• Tree of Life
• Country Road
• Cotton on kids
• Best and Less
• Charcoal Clothing
• Amazon
• Etsy
• AliExpress

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