Maternity Photoshoot in Warrenton, Virginia
Tips on how to Style Your Family for Photos
Warrenton, Virginia offers an abundant amount of gorgeous locations for stunning photos. I met this fellow Art Teacher for a maternity shoot and let me tell you it was POURING RAIN right before the shoot! Since we both are pretty creative we figured we would give it a try. I ran into our local grocery story and grabbed a couple ponchos, and an umbrella. Then I remembered my gear… I wasn’t sure how to keep this protected so grabbed a few of those rain caps that my grandmother used to wear to church. The clear plastic ones, just wrapped my camera all up and we were good to go!
Other than the weather often we worry about what to wear for our family photos. Here are some tips I use with my clients to help keep them comfortable but also feeling like they are looking their best authentic selves.
How To Decide What to Wear For Your NORTHERN VIRGINIA PHOTOSHOOT
Keep It Simple & Authentic: Focus on what feels like “you” as a family. Choose clothing that reflects your personal style and lifestyle. Think everyday outfits that make you feel good—nothing too fussy or stiff. I would suggest not choosing the outfit you never want to put on. Choose something that brings you JOY!
Coordinate, Don’t Match: Avoid identical outfits for everyone. Instead, choose colors and textures that complement each other. Stick with a color palette. You can also choose one persons shirt, or moms dress and coordinate off of that. Think about where your shoot will be. If you are planning on having your shoot in a very green area you could choose light pinks and neutrals to complement that scene. Now this being said “Rules” are meant to be broken, also this isn’t really a rule. If you love your kids to be in matching attire GO FOR IT! I’ve shot plenty of shoots where the kids are matching and they came out beautiful. I would maybe suggest that the whole family doesn’t show up in the same plaid shirt, but again if that’s your thing let’s totally go for it!
Layering Adds Dimension: Adding layers can create texture and visual interest without making things look too busy. Consider throwing on cardigans, jackets, scarves, or hats for an extra touch of style. Don’t forget your jewelry. I don’t always were my rings to school and I forgot to put them on for a personal shoot once and was kind of bummed after. Think about things that have meaning.
Think About Comfort: The more comfortable you feel, the more natural your photos will look. Choose clothes that allow movement, especially for kids. This helps capture those candid, playful moments. Don’t forget the shoes too. A toddler that has sensory issues and doesn’t like uncomfortable shoes, just let it go and compromise. The photos are memories of the season of life you are in. It’s OK. Also don’t wear heels if we are going to be shooting in a muddy field, we can always change shoes throughout the shoot as well.
Incorporate Personal Details: Add a personal touch to your outfits—a favorite piece of jewelry, a cherished sweater, or shoes that you love. These small details help make the photos more “you.”
Textures Over Logos: Choose fabrics and textures that photograph beautifully, like cotton, linen, wool, and denim. Avoid large logos or graphics that can distract from the moment and make the photo feel less timeless.
Keep Kids in Mind: For children, choose clothing that allows them to be themselves—whether that’s a little twirl in a dress or running around in jeans. When they’re dressed in clothing they feel good in, their personality will shine through naturally. If you can avoid pops of neon on shoes that can also help, again if its all the kid will wear don’t worry about it.
Plan for the Weather: Since we’ll be shooting outdoors in a beautiful park setting, keep an eye on the weather and bring layers in case it’s chilly. Comfortable shoes for walking around are also a must!
Avoid Over-Styling: You don’t need to overthink every detail. The goal is for your family to feel relaxed and comfortable. Keep hair and makeup natural—just a little touch-up to help you feel fresh.
Have Fun with It: Don’t stress about being “perfect.” Let your family’s personality shine through, whether that means a little messy hair, playful wrinkles in clothes, or spontaneous moments of laughter.
