**I am adding some FAQ pages on my right side bar and this is one of them, so I thought I'd do this as a blog post also. :)
One of the most common questions I get is asking for advice on clothing choices for the client. I thought I would be a fun thing to add a page letting you know some of my tips and ideas for helping your family look their best!
The MOST important factor has nothing to do with what color to wear, whether or not to wear patterns, etc...it has to do with SHOWING YOUR PERSONALITY! Though "black/white shirts with khaki pants/jeans" are popular (and for good reason...you stand out), that doesn't mean you can't show your personality! If your favorite color is blue, WEAR IT! If you're favorite color is red, WEAR IT! Or, even if you do want to go with the black/white, throw in some splashes of your favorite color or add some touches of leopard/zebra print if that is what you like! I just want to stress that you don't have to be afraid of color and flair! Bold colors look great in person AND in photos! Choosing a bold color that makes your eye color stand out is definitely a great idea.
Now, I'm not encouraging you to come to your session in head-to-toe plaid or anything...there ARE some basic do's and don'ts:
1.) Think TEXTURE! Texture can REALLY stand out in your photo and add a lot of "depth" to it. Things that add texture would be things like scarves, accessories, hats, blazers, ties, denim, knits, and corduroy. Another thing that can help is layers, such as long sleeves under short sleeves, leggings under skirts/dresses or even tall or fuzzy boots. This kind of goes with keeping with your personality. Don't be afraid to wear what you would wear on any other day you wanted to look your best.
2.) One thing people underestimate is how close in some of those photos are! You'll want to make sure you pay attention to details that you might otherwise miss, like making sure nails are clean and trimmed (especially the kiddos), clothing is ironed, and shoes are clean. Always dress for full-length shots, which means socks and shoes that also match and are in good condition. A lot of times barefoot is best, so don't be offended if I ask to remove your child's shoes! :)
3.) A couple of things to avoid would be logos, bold patterns, and character-wear. You don't want those Spider-man or Disney Princess shoes distracting from your child. You also don't want that logo on their chest distracting from their face. With patterns, it IS ok to wear them, IN MODERATION. You don't want the whole family in plaid shirts, but it IS ok to have one or two of them in plaids with the others in solids to balance them out.
4.) For my seniors, you will be alone in the picture so almost anything goes! You are encouraged to wear BOLD colors and definitely lots of layers/textures. You don't have to worry about clashing with the person next to you, so you can really use this time to show your personality and wear something that makes you feel great and smile! :) I also tell my clients that they are more than welcome to bring as many outfits as they wish and I can help you choose what's best. Don't forget to bring along some accessories to choose from (jewelry, hats, scarves, shoes, headbands, etc).
5.) It's always a good idea to bring along a few things, just in case. Examples: a brush/comb, hairspray, spray-bottle of water, kleenex/wipes, a few extra diapers, and [non-messy] snacks for the kiddos in case they get a little antsy. :)
Hopefully this helps a little bit to give you some ideas. Of course, I'm always available should you need a little extra help determining what to wear!
