Autumn is here!
We’ve changed season on Friday 23rd of September, time flies! I love this season’s muted colours as it allows so much freedom in outfit styling.
So if you have booked a session with me and you are wondering what to wear for your family session, you have come to the right post (or I have directed you correctly)!
I have listed a few tips below to help you dress tastefully, but also stay authentic to yourself. There will be only 1 outfit for the whole session so let’s get it right!
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Pick Mum/Girls outfit first
I am not being sexist here! It’s much easier to start picking a girl outfit first as:
1) we have a lot more choices in terms of cut, colours and patterns which makes it easier to base everyone’s outfit on
2) we are pickier
Men can wear a simple pair of jeans or chinos, with a T-shirt and an open overshirt on top. Make sure your partner had a shave the day before.
A clean pair of trainers can do the job if they are smart or some leather shoes will also look great.
2. A fancier version of yourself
Although you wish to look good in the session and you might be looking for something different, it’s important that you feel yourself. It’s not the right time to try a too-crazy fashion outfit. If you don’t feel comfortable with your look it will show during the session and you won’t like the photos. Instead, I recommend choosing an outfit a little more dressed up than your usual look.
Photo from Cara Chatwin Instagram
3. Coordinate but no matching outfits
Gone is the time when all the family was wearing matching outfits!
First, think of the location. Will we shoot in the park, in a field or at the beach? The best is to choose muted tones that coordinate with the location. In fall, we like warm tones that will also go with the red and yellow leaves colours.
Try to avoid bright colours green or pink but more pastel colours such as sage, blush pink, etc… Keep the patterns to a minimum, so it’s less distracting in the photos. We want to create these timeless family photos that you will be able to look at 10 years down the line without cringing!
4. Bet on natural material
Natural fabrics, such as wool, cotton, silk, leather and cashmere are great to keep warm but they will last longer and the material will look better in photos.
If you know me well, you must know that I am a Sezane lover. I discovered this French brand about 2 years ago and completely fell in love. It was the perfect description of my French identity. I found my style. It was more expensive than any of my previous clothes purchases but each item I have purchased is a much higher quality and lasts me a lot longer. I love Sezane knitwear and they would be perfect to wear with a long skirt with high boots, like in these photos.
Sezane Prune Jumper £95 + Tammie Skirt £115
5. Style your hair
Don’t forget to book everyone’s hairdressing appointment before your session. Boys and girls! For girls or even boys with long hair; curly and wavy hair always looks great in photos so plan enough time to prepare your hair before the session.
6. Pay attention to details
The day before, make sure to iron your clothes. And mums, don’t take all the workload, ask your partner and the kids to join in the preparation. Make it something fun that you are doing together. If you have an item that is prone to creases, transport it on a hanger and put it on when you get to the shoot location.
If you have a furry pet, make sure your clothes are been brushed, etc…
7. Elevate your outfit with accessories
This is the Harper Necklace £65 + Aya Necklace £95
This is especially for mums and little girls: go crazy and accessorize your and your child’s look with jewellery, a bow or hats.
I like the overlay of necklaces in this photo from Sezane’s website.
Hats are also great and can be worn with a long dress, skirt and high boots. We can use it for a part of the shoot and take it off for the other part.
If you have a pretty knitted blanket, bring it to the session, we will use it for sitting poses.
8. Be comfortable
It’s important to be comfortable and warm during your session, so don’t forget to bring a jacket and comfy shoes.
I love high suede boots for women with either a short or long dress, it really transforms your style into a “fall” look. Now make sure you’ve worn them before as it will be a shame that the session has to be cut short because of blisters.
As we will be shooting outdoors, please bring a pair of trainers or wellies just in case we need to walk through soft ground or mud.
You will be able to change your shoes and take your jacket off once we get to the photo location.
9. Don’t wait until the last minute
Make sure you have planned enough time before your family session to try your outfits and ensure they worked alongside each other.
Now that you have been through these basic tips, I hope you have a clearer idea of what to wear. I have made a Pinterest board to help you with more examples. I am always here if you need any help with picking items before your session, you can contact me via email or What’s App.
