Drum Roll please.... Its almost my favorite season of all...FALL! I absolutely love Fall time, yup I'm that basic gal that lives for Fall each year. Its my time to shine! I love everything about fall, the cool crisp air, scarves, boots, the apple cider, don't get me started on fall candles and decor. I could go on and on about them both.."cough cough".. Sweater weather candles from Bath and Body works are my favorite.. But you know what else is my favorite about this time of the year Fall sessions. I am literally planning my own families fall family sessions, I need all the maroon, greens, ivories I can get. And maybe some sunflowers.
Ahh Family Photos, I don't know about you but its a bittersweet experience for me. I love family photos because I'm a mom and I'm usually behind the camera. Pictures of me in them? The awkward selfie with Nash. Biggest Reason why I go into full blown "They have to be perfect" mode. Its the ONE time that I am IN the picture and hopefully my hair is styled in a way aside form my usual.
The bitter side of things.. trying to plan it. I see you. Rummaging Pinterest and your Closet. Panicking over what in the WORLD to wear... not just for yourself but for your entire family. It can be super overwhelming, and although I am no pro at this, I have learned some tricks along the way that make the process much easier, while creating a cohesive "look".
So you've booked your session with your photographer. YAY!! Next step, to figured out the attire. I start by asking myself some questions just to to get a feel of what I want from the session.
Ask yourself
Location?
WHERE are you having the shoot? Indoors? Outdoors? At a park? Downtown in an urban setting? What will the color be like in the background of the photos?
Vibe?
How do you want the pictures to feel? Classic. Boho. Earthy. Formal. Relaxed.Playful, Beachy. Bright. Cheerful.
Season?
Winter. Spring.Summer. Fall.I always like to make my photos match the season, especially if outside because you want to make sure you and your crew aren't freezing or sweating like you just ran a marathon. Obviously if there is snow on the ground don't' wear a tank top and vice versa a sweater in the summer. This can also help in choosing colors for your outfits. I typically mesh the season in with our overall color scheme, Which I will get in to.
Our pictures were late summer so we didn't do much for layers since it was still fairly warm outside.
Now to the Colors:
It might sound conceited...buuut I plan everyone's outfits around .. drumroll... MINE. Yep, M-E You want to be confident in these pictures so choose an outfit that YOU feel good in. Once that makes you take a second or third glance in the mirror. You never want to plan everyone elses outfits then settle for something to wear because its the only thing that meshs well or matched the others. Plus it makes the process much easier when you have starting point. Let me walk you through my process of choosing colors and the outfits we will actual wear.
I start by generally deciding a few colors I might be interested in, then I browse around usually the internet. And look for the perfect dress or shirt. I tend to make sure these outfits will look good for Christmas cards as well in case we don't get a chance to get a separate session for Christmas cards done prior. However Maroon, green and mustard are my jam.
Lets talk Denim . I LOVE Denim and try to tie it in to most sessions we do. First off, I consider denim more of a neutral and it tends to add texture to the overall look. Tip: SPRINKLE it and Don't overdo it. Typically I will put Nash is a denim shirt and Shelden in Denim jeans, but no one is both wearing denim shirts. Just a sprinkle of Denim and I feel like it easily pairs with a colored shirt or pants. However in this case I was going for more of earthy tone; so we went with some olive green pants.
Boom- Two down and one more to go.
Old Navy is my go to for basics and if I need something last minute I head to Target. Since we don't actually have an Old Navy in Aberdeen.
Some Tips:
Start with your outfit and mesh the others around that.
Don't get too matchy -matchy. Add textures and colors that will mesh well with one another and don't be afraid to add a splash of pattern to your outfits.
Basic isn't bad. Spice up your basic pieces with layers (cardigans, button-ups, sweater, scarf) If you need help check out Old Navy they usually have some great ideas for a starting point.
Avoid super bold patterns and Colors. You want to be able to look at the photo and notice your expressions. Not the Neon pants.
If all else fails with your kids... bring along a small (non messy) treat to bribe them. We will bring the Gerber Crunchies and they seem to do the trick for us.
Make sure whatever you do that the outfits you choose are you! Honestly, I don't think we could ever do a super formal shoot with a dress and suit. It's not really us. And the last thing you want is to feel uncomfortable during your photos, so make sure your personalities and vibes are also a part of your decision- making when planning your photos.
Fav place to get dress or tops. Target, Old Navy but don't be afraid of Amazon. You can find some fantastic outfits and you usually can get free returns if it doesn't work. I order the skirt and White top both from Amazon and it worked perfectly. I will admit I read alot of reviews to make sure I knew what I was getting in to.
Lay the outfits out on the floor and see what mesh's
XO,
Tasha