3 Expert Tips for Styling Your Family's Next Photoshoot

Everyone loves a good family photo on the wall but very few moms would tell you they enjoy the process of obtaining said photo. Between booking the photographer, pulling together everyone's outfits, and making sure your family is actually there on time, its actually somewhat of a landmine for frustration.

While we can't ensure your family will smile or remain clean, we can give you the actionable steps to styling them like a pro! Keep reading for our top three guidelines for a cohesive group photo.

1. Choosing A Color Palette

We've found that starting with a color palette is the quickest way to cut down on decision making. You can choose a palette that works your family and shop within those colors, or simply pull things you may already own! Another option would be to consider your home decor. If you plan to hang this photo in a high traffic area, you might go with colors that match the aesthetic of your home.

What do I do if my family looks better in different colors?

For many family's, you may have a mixture of coloring and skin tone. Choose an initial color palette (ex. blues & browns) and choose items for each person that are versions of their best! So your Winter husband may be in a charcoal brown and your spring daughter in camel. It will blend together well in a picture and actually create some nice variation! When in doubt, opt for a neutral white in their best shade.

1. Mixing Solids & Prints

Our goal for eye catching family photos is for the group to be blended and cohesive without being too matchy matchy. We're shooting for visually the same family - not the same person. This allows everyone to find something that suits them/their body and gives everyone a moment to shine instead of all fading together. Opt for a mixture of prints vs. solids throughout the group to add visual interest. Texture is also a great option!! A great ratio to keep is 1:3 or 2:5. For every 5 people, put two in prints and three in solids or textures. Don't get hung up on that rule!! But it is a good generalization to lean on.

1. Consider Location & Timing

When you're choosing outfits, you want to keep in mind the location and timing! For summer you might want to opt for lighter weight breathable fabrics vs. a fall or winter shoot that looks better with cozier options. This is also true for the style of clothing you choose! If you’re shooting in a more rustic setting, stilettos and a blazer may not fit the surroundings very well.

This is the part where we remind you that your family photos should reflect.. your family! So if you're a casual bunch, don't have this be the one day you stick your husband in a suit. Or if you have a more classic vibe, dressier styles may feel more at home for you. The main thing is not to try and replicate an inspiration photo too closely. Use places like Pinterest to spark ideas, not expectations.

Speaking of expectations...

Here's one last reminder that the purpose for taking family photos is to have a lasting memory of your family in this time and phase of life. Please don't let you or your family's memory of this day be one of you talking badly about yourself. We get it -- photos aren't everyone's favorite thing! But if you can't seem to muster up kind words to say about yourself in your photos, focus on others where you can. The words you speak matter! Let your family (and your own brain) hear words of encouragement!

Looking for hair and makeup tips? We recommend choosing styles and colors that emphasize your natural beauty. Checkout our Beauty Guide Pinterest Boards HERE with ideas for every seasonal palette!

If you think this all sounds great but are still ready to outsource the task to someone else, we have your back! Our stylists can shop for your photos with a Personal Shopping session or style things you already own during one of our Outfit Creation sessions. Give us a call to get more information!

With love & style,

Carly & the EQUIPPED team