You don’t need to have everything perfectly planned before reaching out. I’ll help guide you through the details so your session feels relaxed, meaningful, and beautifully connected from start to finish.
Family Photography
Style Guide
Your outfits set the stage
Now is the time to start thinking about putting together those perfect family photo outfits, and I know this part can sometimes feel a little overwhelming. This guide is here to help make the process easier, with colors, textures, and accessories that I know will photograph beautifully and help your images feel timeless and connected.
The Starting Point
Tip 1: Start with Mom’s outfit first
In most families, Mom is the one pulling everything together, so I always recommend starting with the hardest outfit to choose… your own. When you feel confident and comfortable, it shows in every image. Choose something you can move, sit, cuddle, and play in easily. Dresses with a little movement photograph beautifully, especially when you’re interacting with your little ones.
Tip 2: Coordinate, don’t match
The goal is for everyone to look connected, not identical. Instead of putting everyone in the same colors or matching outfits, think in complementary tones that work together naturally. Olive green, mustard, cream, rust, soft blues, and warm neutrals are all beautiful examples of colors that coordinate without feeling overly “matchy.”
Tip 3: Mix textures, patterns, and solids
Texture adds so much warmth and depth to your family photography session. Don’t be afraid to mix linen, knits, cotton, or subtle patterns alongside solids. A cozy cable knit sweater paired with soft linen or flowing fabrics creates beautiful visual interest without feeling busy. The one thing I recommend avoiding is anything overly shiny or sparkly, as those fabrics tend to distract in photos.
Tip 4: Don’t leave outfits until the last minute
Choosing outfits always feels easier when you give yourself a little breathing room. Planning ahead gives you time to try everything on together, make small changes if needed, and avoid unnecessary stress right before your session. If you want a second opinion, feel free to lay everything out and send me a snap of your clothes. The goal is for you to arrive feeling relaxed and ready to simply enjoy your time together.
Seasonal Combinations
Embrace earth and jewel tones year-round; stay away from neon.
WHITE – wear cream or tan instead
BRIGHT COLORS – wear muted/rich version
RED – wear maroon, wine or burgundy
YELLOW – wear mustard instead
BLUE – wear a denim blue instead
GREEN – wear emerald, army or olive
Finishing Touches
The details matter
MAKEUP. I work alongside incredibly talented makeup artists if you need a recommendation!
JEWELRY. Choose accessories that make a statement, or not your every day jewelry. Dangly earrings, gold layered necklaces, bracelets, rings, etc.
EXTRAS. Accessorize everyone in the family! Even hats, belts, suspenders, beanies, etc. add interest for boys.
SHOES. Don’t forget to go neutral on the shoes as well- brown boots/sandals etc.
Favourite Jewelry Brands
Final Checklist
Please take a moment to review the list below before your session. Extra editing requests can add to both the turnaround time and the final cost, but the good news is that most of it can easily be avoided ahead of time. If something unavoidable comes up, like a rash or noticeable injury, just send me an email so I can make note of it before your session.
- Avoid wearing daily jewelry such as Apple watches
- A fresh ironing or steaming can make a huge difference
- Use makeup to cover obvious tan lines
- Remove hair ties from wrists
- Remove items from pockets – wallets, keys, phones, etc.
- Wear proper undergarments that do not show or need adjustments as you move
- Avoid spray tans if they are streaky or orange
- Chipping nail polish should be removed before the session
- Clean hands as much as possible. Remove marker, grease, stains, etc.
REAL MOMENTS START HERE
Let's plan your session
Sandwick Drive, Hammonds Plains
P: (902) 220.3175
E: he***@***********ke.ca
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