FAMILY FASHION 2024: NEUTRALS ARE IN!
AFTER A CLIENT BOOKS A LIFESTYLE NEWBORN OR FAMILY SESSION,
THEIR FIRST QUESTION IS, “WHAT SHOULD WE WEAR?”
I really love documenting lifestyle family sessions because clients can incorporate themselves into the session; their personalities, their colors and, of course, their style. These sessions are candid, relaxed and truly showcases the pure love and family bond. Here are some tips on what to wear when planning a lifestyle newborn or family session.
TIP NO. 1: NEUTRALS
While I always encourage clients to pick clothing that they feel comfortable in, communicates the style they have and compliments their home decor – I do always suggest starting from a neutral palette. Newborns should be the star of the show when it comes to the session, so dressing in bright colors or busy patterns often is distracting in the final image. Neutral does not have to mean a plain white T-shirt. I consider neutrals as a palette of likeness (gray, navy, tan, white, ivory, heather blue, rose pink, terra cotta, etc.) The most important part is that the colors compliment one another and there are three-four colors (if including denim) MAX. Men can sometimes have a hard time finding shirts without patterns, in which case a solid sweater overtop is a nice compliment to break it up.
TIP NO. 2: FLOW & TEXTURE
Fabric that moves or has texture is always my preference. Women who have just delivered a baby sometimes do not feel like their most beautiful versions of themselves (although they should). Fabric that moves and flows is a flattering option, especially when choosing ivories and whites for your color choice. Textures and fabrics such as linen, wool and lace are also wonderful as they add visual appeal but don’t distract from the photograph. It is a great way to add interest.
I also love the look of a dress on a woman after childbirth. I don’t suggest wearing a maternity dress that is tight around the waist. Instead, pick a dress with movement. Think maternal, classic and beautiful flow.
TIP NO. 3: DON’T MATCH, COORDINATE INSTEAD
Instead of dressing everyone in the same outfit, choose coordinating outfits that reflect each family member’s personality. This adds depth and interest to your photos, making them even more captivating.
TIP NO. 4: AVOID BLACK
While most women feel that black is the most flattering color choice for clothing, as it is “slimming”, I find it a hard color for lifestyle photography unless B&W images are your objective. My style of photography indoors is light and airy, so having dark clothing creates a moodier feel in the imagery. There is nothing wrong with moody – in fact, it really adds emotion to the image, just be conscious about this when you make your color selections. The other thing to consider is your home decor palette. If your home is mostly white and neutrals, black clothing might feel a bit overwhelming in color.
TIP NO. 5: PROPER FIT FOR BABY
Babies are teeny tiny and most clothing (even 0-3 mo. size) is still too big right after birth. If choosing an “outfit” to document your baby in, make sure it fits! You don’t want your little one swimming in their garments. However, never underestimate the beauty of a baby that is swaddled. If the rest of the family is dressed plainly, the baby will shine in a sweet swaddle or wrap. I will select a simple and timeless swaddle for that classic imagery that you’ll never tire seeing.
TIP NO. 6: WHERE TO SHOP
Ok, now the fun part! Once you have decided on your color pallete, it’s time to put together your family’s attire for your photo shoot. Choose clothing items that feel right to you and your style, but also look for items that are able to be worn again and again after your session.
Here is a list of some of my favorite stores for finding clothes for mom, kids, toddlers and babies. They have a great mix of textures, colors, and choices for every size. Have fun shopping!
TIP NO. 7: ACCESSORIZE YOUR LOOK!
Accessories can add a touch of magic to your photos. Consider wide-brimmed hats, bracelets, funky earrings, or anything that adds movement to the photographs. Flowy dresses, scarves and long hair blowing in the wind make for beautiful moments.
El and Em Photography is located in Troy, MI and specializes in maternity, newborn, baby milestone and family photography. My tiny clients come to my home studio for their sessions from all over the metro Detroit area including: Rochester, Troy, Birmingham, Detroit, Ferndale, Royal Oak, Clawson, Bloomfield, Oak Park, Sterling Heights, Madison Heights, Warren, Southfield, Auburn Hills and more. Michigan Motherhood Photographer.