what to wear guide: a session with the fitzroys photography
I often get asked by families about the best clothes to wear for their photoshoot. While there are many ways to use colour in photography, my favourite by far is to use a very natural colour palette (taking inspiration from Nature herself - yolky yellows, burnt oranges, browns, greens, blues etc). I love the timeless look of those tones ensuring that nothing detracts from my subjects and that they are always the focus of the shot. It’s for this reason that it’s important for my clients to give some thought, in advance, as to what they will all wear. This guide is here to guide and inspire you, and hopefully take some of that stress away. Keep in mind that it is not an exact formula nor is it a prescription of what you HAVE to wear.
Before anything can be said, the most important message is to be comfortable. We're capturing your personal family memories, the little bits that make your family exactly who they are. Let that stand out in your photographs.
Colours, textures and patterns can work beautifully for a session. They add depth, emotion and just work so beautifully. I will get you to figure out what Mum is wearing first, and then choose your outfits around that. Try not to have too many contrasting patterns. One person wearing a pattern in the shoot is normally enough. Please, no big logos or sports shirts - this is key.
Anything with writing or big pictures detracts from the subject (ie you guys!) and also dates quickly… I will say a big NO to matchy-matchy (think white and denim, it is so 1990's). You want these images to be timeless.
Remember, you need to feel happy and comfortable in what you're wearing, both standing and sitting. It's my job to make you look beautiful, but it really helps if you're feeling confident and relaxed. Below are some of my favourite places to shop and where you may find some inspo. Don't feel the need to go and buy new outfits (although it is a good excuse for a shopping spree) this is simply a guide to show the type of textures patterns and colours that can take your pictures to the next level.
Keep outfits soft, warm and easy when your session takes place in a colder months – that way, we can focus all of our time on your family and the connection you have with one another.
Dress the family as if you were dressing one person. The best bit of advice I can offer. Instead of dressing each individual person, coordinate colours within your family. You don’t have to be matched, just complimenting each other. Think of your family as one big piece of artwork, this way no one will clash and no one will stick out.
Hair and makeup. It is important to have your hair styled and wear a little makeup, enough to feel beautiful. Because being yourself is the most beautiful thing you could wear so I always advise to try and not to over do it.
Avoid heavy patterns, big brands or logos on clothing. We don't want to be distracted by over the top patterns or logos that will very quickly date.
BASIC TIPS:
Solid colours always photograph well. There’s no risk of distracting from faces, joyful interactions or the scenery (if your session is outdoors). But don’t be afraid of patterned dresses either!
Ladies: look for soft, natural fabrics that drape and flow. These make for beautiful portraits and give a sense of motion.
Choose colours to pick up the beautiful colours in nature especially if we are have your session outdoors. Neutrals such as soft pinks, cream, muted blues, soft greens and white all photograph extremely, blending effortlessly with the natural elements rather than competing with them. The same principal works in studio environment.
When in doubt select one patterned outfit for a single person in the family and then pull colours from that pattern to dress everyone else in solid colours to coordinate.
Bring a change of clothes or backup shirt/bottoms for little ones and a towel if we are planning on being at the beach.
WHERE TO SHOP:
For mum: St Frock (online), Arizona Rose (online), Get frocked (online), Witchery, Seed, Zara, Country Road, Spell, Frankie&co
For dad: Zara, Gap, H&M, Target, Country Road
For kids and baby: Children of the tribe, Zara, Seed, Jamie Kay (online), Arabella & Rose (online), Hubble & Duke (online), Fawn & Finch (online)
For little girls, check to this LINK for my favourite linen outfits in beautiful tones
ACCESSORIES?
Headbands and bows – please try and keep them low key and the tones in muted colours that aren’t distracting. Also – if you have headbands in your little ones hair, you’ll constantly be fidgeting with it and trying to re-adjust it. So sometimes it’s best to leave them behind, especially as though we are aiming for a free-flowing sessions with little distraction and a focus on fun.
ON TREND:
If you like browsing and want to be inspired, don’t go without checking out the Style page for amazing examples on how to style a family - visuals only. Amazing, right?
And lastly, here is my Pinterest page to help you get inspired: family session wardrobe inspiration + mini people's style
What to wear subject is quite important and plays great part in the session outcome. Clothing and styling can make the difference to an ok image to something really special. What I have to say is all well and good, but you know what colours suit you, what style suits you, and what is YOU! So, please above anything else - DRESS FOR YOU!
Thank you for taking the time to read this.
I can’t wait to help create many wonderful memories for you and your family!
Aga x
