What to Wear-Family Portraits

While the photographers skill plays a large part in how your photographs turn out, you can help by the clothing choices you choose for your family. The goal is not for everyone to perfectly match each other but to form a cohesive group that looks like they belong with each other.

Below are some helpful tips you may want to consider as you dress your family for family portraits.

Color

• Avoid wearing bright colors. Neutral tones photograph best. Blues, and browns work well. Try not to mix dark and light toned clothing together. It is distracting to the eye when the photograph is viewed. Dark tones melt into the background while those in light tones "pop" out of the picture.
• Try to have everyone wear colors that compliment each other in shade.
• Medium shades of blues, greens, and purples are flattering to MOST (not all)  skin tones.
• Earthy tones tan, gold, brown, and beige tend to photograph well for outdoor shots.
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Keep It Simple

• When multiple people are in a shot together simple clothing choices work best. You don't want clothing from one family member competing with another.
• Examples of distracting patterns: Stripes, Paisley, Graphic Patterns, Plaids, Checks, Logos, Polka Dots etc.
• If possible it is best to stay with solid colored clothing. If there is a pattern try to make it a subtle one. That way the focus is on the faces and each family member rather then what they are wearing.
• Minimal jewelry and classic jewelry photograph best in group shots. Try to avoid large items and reflective items as well.

Details

• Long sleeves or 3/4 sleeves photograph well. Too much visible skin distracts the eye.
• V-necks, square necks, and turtle necks work well for group shots. Avoid cowl necks and large collars as they overwhelm your face in the photos.
• Remember your shoes. They may be in the shot so make sure they match the colors you are wearing.