the do's & don'ts

A Simple Style Guide

Let's be honest — choosing outfits for your photo session can feel like a lot.

You want everyone to look great together without being too matchy-matchy, and you also want to feel like yourself. I get it! So l've put together a few simple tips to help take the stress out of figuring out what to wear and make sure your photos turn out timeless and beautiful.

Here are a few tips to get you started ...

Start With a Color Palette

Think soft, natural, and neutral tones.

Earthy colors, muted pastels, creams, or warm tones that work beautifully in golden hour light. Choose about 3 colors that complement each other and mix them throughout the family's outfits. This brings everything together without everyone wearing the exact same thing.

Mix Textures, Not Patterns

Add interest to your look with textures like linen, knits, gauze, denim, and layers.

A soft cardigan, a flowy dress, or a chambray shirt can add dimension without being distracting. Avoid loud logos, neon colors, or too many bold patterns — these tend to take away from the emotion and connection in your images.

Coordinate, Don't Match

Remember the old days of white shirts and blue jeans?

We've moved on from that! (well - maybe not completely but we can try) Instead, coordinate your outfits so they feel connected — like different shades of the same story. Think of it like curating a mini wardrobe collection rather than matching uniforms.

Keep Comfort in Mind

If your little one hates tags or can't stand certain shoes — don't force it.

Comfortable kids are happy kids, and happy kids mean joyful, natural images.

Same goes for you — wear what makes you feel confident and relaxed.

Think About Movement

Flowy dresses, skirts that catch the breeze, and tops that drape softly always photograph beautifully.

They add a sense of motion and emotion to your images. Bonus points if you can twirl in it!

Shoes Matter

Footwear really factors where your session is located.

Barefoot is always an option — especially in grassy fields or by the water. But make sure you go with something simple and clean (like sandals, boots, or flats). No one likes sinking stilettos in tall grass. Try to avoid bright white sneakers or overly bulky shoes unless that's part of your everyday vibe. Heels always look nice, but again - think about location.

Add Layers + Accessories

Layers like denim jackets or lightweight knits give you styling options during the session.

Accessories like hats, bows, or simple jewelry can add a personal touch — just be sure they don't steal the show.

… let's check out some color pallets & examples ...

SOFT, FRESH, AND ROMANTIC — PERFECT FOR EARLY BLOOMS AND NATURAL BACKDROPS.

Spring Color Palette

• Base Tones: Ivory, soft beige, warm gray
• Accent Colors: Sage green, blush pink, dusty lavender, pale blue
• Textures: Cotton, eyelet, linen, gauze
• Outfit Notes: Think flowy dresses, khakis, denim jackets, and floral details. Light layers are perfect for the unpredictable temps.

Outfit Examples:

• Mom: Blush flowy maxi dress with a light cardigan
• Dad: Tan chinos, white henley shirt, denim jacket
• Kids: Pastel romper, linen shirt with suspenders

GOLDEN, BRIGHT, AND RELAXED - IDEAL FOR SUN-SOAKED GOLDEN HOUR SESSIONS.

Summer Color Palette

• Base Tones: Warm cream, soft tan, oatmeal
• Accent Colors: Mustard, terracotta, dusty blue, soft coral, olive
• Textures: Lightweight knits, gauzy dresses, chambray, linen
• Outfit Notes: Flowy dresses, rolled sleeves, and barefoot kids in breezy neutrals always shine in summer's light.

Outfit Examples:

• Mom: Solid light-colored flowy dress or soft print
• Dad: Oatmeal linen shirt and khaki shorts
• Kids: neutral romper or overalls, textured dress

RICH, COZY, AND EARTHY — PERFECT FOR CHANGING LEAVES AND CRISP AIR.

Fall Color Palette

• Base Tones: Warm taupe, camel, charcoal, cream
• Accent Colors: Rust, burnt orange, maroon, forest green, mustard
• Textures: Corduroy, wool, flannel, chunky knits
• Outfit Notes: Layers shine here - scarves, vests, boots, and jackets photograph beautifully against fall foliage.

Outfit Examples:

• Mom: Rust sweater dress with knee-high boots
• Dad: Charcoal jeans, flannel shirt, quilted vest
• Kids: Forest green overalls or a maroon knit set

CLEAN, COZY, and BOLD — STUNNING FOR INDOOR SESSIONS OR SNOW-DUSTED BACKDROPS.

Winter Color Palette

• Base Tones: Soft gray, ivory, warm white
• Accent Colors: Jewel tones, deep green, burgundy, navy
• Textures: Velvet, cable knits, fleece, wool blends
• Outfit Notes: Coordinated layers (not too bulky), statement coats, or cozy sweaters. Perfect for studio or styled outdoor minis.

Outfit Examples:

• Mom: Jewel toned velvet dress with a shawl or blanket scarf
• Dad: solid peacoat over a cable knit sweater
• Kids: Knit romper or fleece-lined coat

Final Thoughts

The most important thing is that you feel good.

Your session is about you and your family - the connection, the laughter & all the love. The outfits are not the main character in this story. If you're ever unsure, I'm more than happy to help you style your session. Just send me what you're thinking, and I'll walk you through it!

Let's create something beautiful together!