CLOTHING

I know picking out outfits for everyone in the family and making sure they all go together and hoping your kids will even wear what you pick out...can be a daunting task to say the least.

This page isn't here to overwhelm you, but to help guide you and take much of the guess work out of things. Hopefully after reading this page, you'll have gained better understanding of what makes great clothing for photographs and you'll feel more empowered to take on this task rather than trying to figure it out on your own.

I recommend starting to think about wardrobe several weeks before your photo session so that you're not rushed last minute in case you do need to order anything, enough time for cheaper shipping options, trying it on, and possibly having to exchange it.

I'm also a text or call away if you are having trouble piecing together your family's outfits. I'm here to help! Seriously!

What to wear to a photo shoot; Nicole O'Rourke Photography; Nicole Knotts; Portland family photographer; Eastern Oregon photographer; Portland Oregon child photographer; Salem Oregon family photographer; Oregon City photographer; Sandy Oregon wedding photographer; Sandy Oregon family photographer

THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND:

BUILD AROUND FAVE OUTFIT:
I recommend that mama choose her outfit first, then the rest of the family members dress accordingly.
Or, if you have a very picky dresser in your family, or a favorite kid outfit, go with them first.

COLORS:
Don't all match in color, but make sure the colors "go together." See below for examples.

PATTERNS:
Only 1 family member (2 at most) should wear a patterned shirt or dress. The rest should wear solids.
Plaid, gingham, small florals are perfect.

TEXTURES:
For fall and winter - add layers like knitted sweaters, scarves, & hats. These textures add depth and interest to photographs.
Lace (like on a collar of a dress or cardigan or even just a blanket to sit on) for those warmer months.

ACCESSORIES:
Lastly - socks & shoes! Neutral colored socks. Yes, sometimes these peak through pants when people sit or when children are running & climbing. Leather/brown shoes or boots, barefoot, or flat sandals.
Nearly all locations are not suitable for high heels.

FINAL NOTES:

FOR THE MAMAS & DAUGHTERS

I strongly recommend (but never required) that mama & girls wear dresses that flow! The movement from flowy dresses adds magic & movement to photographs! Plus, the girls love to twirl in them making it a fun experience.

FOR THE DADS & SONS

Brown pants, jeans and khakis are great for the boys. Button down shirts and henleys are great for tops.

SHOES

Brown shoes are a go-to for not being distracting. Avoid neon shoes at all cost, even on the soles. Going barefoot in some locations, like the beach or an in-home session, adds a more natural look.

HAIR

Down and flowing is best for photos, especially if it's windy! Avoid tight braids or buns. I'd prefer messy hair rather than slicked back - it looks more natural for the environments we'll be shooting in. For young girls, add a bow or cute headband!

WHY THIS WORKS

The mixture between warm tones and cooler tones is perfect for the variety of greens in the background. The warm toned shirt that Mama is wearing automatically brings warmth to the photograph. You could add a patterned shirt in here and it would be stunning.

WHY THIS WORKS

This is a perfect example of what shoes work well. Brown boots and black for the adults. There's a plaid skirt paired with a neutral top that has a bit of texture in the ruffled sleeves. The younger daughter is wearing mustard colored tights which bring warmth to the photo. Dad & Mama are balancing things out with solid colored tops, and Mama has a neutral colored top. Hair is down, with the exception of the littlest member to keep her hair out of her face.

DON'T ALREADY HAVE WHAT YOU NEED?

WHY THIS WORKS

This family mixed warm tones (rust, orange) with neutral and cooler tones (khaki, blue, green) and works well together. Little brother's brown corduroy overalls and Mama's knitted sweater give nice textures to the image. One person could have a patterned shirt or dress and would be great as well.