What to wear/what not to wear for fall family photos?

So you've booked your fall or winter family photos, Yay! Now what? You need to figure out what to wear! I always like to tell the families I work with, start with your outfit and then go from there, because lets be honest- it's you who booked these photos and it's you who wants to feel the most beautiful and comfortable in these photos. If you aren't sure where to start with yourself, neutrals and earth tones always photograph beautifully no matter the setting, no matter the season. Stay away from neons and lots of dark colors as they don't photograph as well and can cast some funny colors on your skin!

If you are going to use patterns, only one to two family members should be wearing them, too many can look too busy. Try to pick patterns like delicate florals, muted plaid, or vertical stripes. Stay away from tiny tight patterns though like small checks or really close together stripes, this can cause something called the moire effect which I won't be able to fix in editing!

To add interest to your group, LAYER! Chunky knit sweaters, hats, solid vests, ruffles, chambray, all of these things can make such a difference in your photos! Also, with the unpredictability of Oklahoma weather it's never a bad idea to have an outfit that will work in 90 degree weather, but you could also make work in 50 degrees- enter layering!

If you have small children it's also a good idea to think about how you move in the outfit! Because I'm a lifestyle photographer, I'll likely be having you pick up your kiddos, play with them, run with them, lay down with them- so you want to be able to do that with out worrying about something showing that shouldn't. For mom's long flowy skirts or dresses always look great, and create beautiful movement in the photos while being able to still pick up your kiddos!

Your photographer, whether that's me, or someone else should have some great direction or ideas on what to wear for your session! Never be afraid to ask for guidance or inspiration! If you're questioning what you picked out send me a photo, this is one of my favorite parts of the session and I'd love to provide feedback.

As always, remember this is about you loving on your family and capturing this moment in time. Relax, trust your photographer, and have a great time and I promise you will love the photos you receive.