Outfit Tips for Family Photography Sessions
When booking a family photo session with me (Alana Maria Photography), one of the most common questions I receive is, “What should we wear!?” Choosing outfits for your family photos is essential in creating timeless, cohesive images. To help you decide, I've put together a guide based on the season and age of your kids. Whether you're in Port Perry, Peterborough, Lindsay, Newmarket, Stouffville, Bobcaygeon, Ajax, Whitby, or beyond, I’ve got you covered with helpful tips that will make your family photos shine.
General Outfit Tips for Family Photography Sessions
Before diving into seasonal tips, here are some overall guidelines to consider:
Coordinate, Don’t Match: Avoid the classic matching white shirts and jeans. Instead, opt for a coordinated look with complementary colours and textures.
Neutral Tones and Soft Patterns: Solid colours or subtle patterns work best to keep the focus on your family rather than the clothes.
Comfort Is Key: Make sure everyone is comfortable, especially children. Comfortable clothes allow for natural movement and interactions during the session.
Limit Logos and Bold Patterns: Large logos and busy patterns can be distracting in photos, so stick to timeless pieces that will age well.
What to Wear for a Summer Family Photography Session
Summer offers beautiful outdoor settings, whether you're near the waterfront in Port Perry or enjoying a park in Newmarket. Here's what to keep in mind:
Light, Breathable Fabrics: Linen, cotton, and other breathable materials will keep everyone cool and comfortable.
Pastel and Soft Colors: Summer lends itself to light and airy tones—think blush pinks, soft blues, light yellows, and creams. These shades complement the bright, sunny atmosphere and keep the focus on your family.
Comfortable Footwear: If your session involves walking in a park or along a beach, opt for comfortable footwear like sandals or flats for easy mobility.
Consider the Time of Day: If we’re shooting during golden hour (the hour before sunset), warmer tones like coral, peach, or mustard will complement the lighting beautifully.
Kids in Summer: Keep their outfits simple and playful, with cute rompers, shorts, and sundresses. Be sure to bring along hats and sunglasses for fun, candid shots.
What to Wear for a Fall Family Photography Session
The rich tones and textures of fall in places like Peterborough and Lindsay create a perfect backdrop for family photos. Here’s how to make the most of the season:
Layer Up: The weather can be unpredictable, so layering is essential. Think cardigans, scarves, and light jackets that add texture and warmth.
Earthy Tones and Warm Colors: Embrace the colours of the season—burnt oranges, deep reds, mustard yellows, and earthy browns work beautifully against the fall foliage.
Boots and Hats: Boots are a practical and stylish footwear choice for both adults and kids, especially if we’re shooting in a forest or field. Hats can add a touch of personality to the photos.
Dress the Kids Warmly: For little ones, layers are your best friend. Sweaters, leggings, and soft cotton jackets will keep them cosy and adorable in the autumn chill.
What to Wear for a Winter Family Photography Session
Winter sessions in Stouffville, Whitby, or Bobcaygeon can create stunningly beautiful images, especially with a snowy backdrop. The key here is staying warm while looking chic.
Neutral Layers: Stick to neutral layers like cream, grey, or navy, which complement the snowy landscapes. Add pops of colour like red or emerald green in your accessories, such as scarves and gloves.
Textures Add Interest: Winter is a great time to play with textures—wool sweaters, knit scarves, and faux fur trims all photograph beautifully.
Stylish Coats and Boots: Since outerwear will be visible in most of the photos, choose coats that are stylish and neutral. Winter boots should be both warm and practical, but still fit within your color scheme.
Dress Kids in Fun Winter Gear: Children in bright winter gear, like puffy coats, colourful mittens, and beanies, can add an element of fun and contrast to the neutral winter tones.
What to Wear for a Spring Family Photography Session
Spring in Ajax and the surrounding areas offers blooming flowers and fresh greenery, perfect for a lively, colourful session.
Soft Florals and Pastels: Spring is the season of renewal, so embrace soft florals, pastel hues, and light, airy fabrics. Light blues, soft pinks, and lavender are perfect for the season.
Layers for Changing Weather: Spring weather can be unpredictable, so think about layering with light jackets or cardigans. This will keep you warm without sacrificing style.
Comfortable Shoes: Whether we’re shooting in a field of flowers or a garden, comfortable shoes are key. Consider ballet flats, loafers, or even cute sneakers for the kids.
Spring Kids’ Fashion: For children, light dresses, collared shirts, and soft jumpers work well. Add a playful accessory like a bow or headband for a polished yet fun look.
Incorporating Your Location
Living in the Port Perry, Peterborough, Lindsay, Newmarket, Stouffville, Bobcaygeon, Ajax, Kawartha Lakes or Whitby areas means you have access to a wide variety of stunning outdoor locations. Depending on where you are, we can shoot by the lake, in a forest, or at a local park. Your outfits should complement the scenery. For example, lighter tones work beautifully near the water in Port Perry, while earthy tones blend well with the forested areas in Peterborough or Lindsay.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the best outfits are ones that reflect your family’s unique personality while harmonizing with the season and location. I’m here to guide you every step of the way, from selecting outfits to choosing the perfect location for your family session. Let’s create beautiful, timeless memories together!
If you’re located in or around Port Perry, Peterborough, Lindsay, Newmarket, Stouffville, Bobcaygeon, Ajax, or Whitby, reach out today to book your family photography session.
All the love,
Alana
xoxo