A cohesive look is so important in bringing a family portrait together. By “cohesive look” I mean, a unified style and color palette. First, decide if you want a formal or casual look. Are you more comfortable wearing a skirt and heels or jeans and a t-shirt? My favorite look is a blend of the two. In other words, you could pair a relaxed fitting blouse and pants with some funky jewelry and a pair of wedge heels. No matter which way you go remember, COMFORT IS KEY. If your clothes are uncomfortable then you will be uncomfortable, and that will translate into your photos.
Choosing Colors
Now, how do you begin to decide what colors to wear? Start with the children in the family. Children’s clothes have fun colors and patterns that will inspire you. Pull 2-3 colors from your little one’s outfit to coordinate your wardrobe with. If you are planning an extended family photo shoot take a snapshot of the inspiration outfit and email it to your family members. Using this snapshot for reference, they can pull colors from the outfit to coordinate their wardrobes. Don’t torture yourself trying to match the colors exactly. Going a shade darker or lighter is a good thing. If you have trouble finding something suitable in those colors wear neutral tones like beige or white and use accessories to bring in color.
Below is a simple styling compilation I put together for an upcoming photo shoot using Polyvore, which is a site I would describe as the “Pinterest” of fashion. In this compilation, I was inspired by the woman’s striped tank top. I based my wardrobe selections on the 3 colors in the top: navy, turquoise and pink. I also incorporated neutral colors: beige, grey and white, which work with just about anything.
Color Selections To Complement Your Wall Display
A terrific resource for color palette selection is Design Seeds®. Design Seeds® are color palettes created by designer Jessica Colaluca. If you plan to display framed prints or canvases from your photo shoot on your walls it is important to consider your wardrobe palette as it relates to the color scheme in the room you will hang your display. Choose a palette that works with the tones in your room and do your best to find wardrobe pieces that are complimentary.
Above all, when it comes to selecting your wardrobe, JUST HAVE FUN WITH IT!
