Things to avoid.
01
Blue
This colour doesn’t work well with my editing style, so I encourage earthy colours for a better result.
03
White sneakers & socks
Sandals in summer, bare feet for the beach or wherever possible. in winter, I suggest earthy coloured boots or sneakers. white stands out against clothing, and we don’t want them to distract in family images, we want you & your connection to be the focus. No heels. we want moveability and comfort.
02
Formal Shirts
Keep it softer, more casual and easier to move in. Loose linen photographs much better. Stiff cotton can feel too formal and creases easily.
04
Underwear
Please consider underwear for the whole family. plain underwear for little ones (leave the disney ones safe at home) in case they are wearing lighter coloured clothing etc. Mums, strapless bras or stick on bras are handy. Please ask us for more underwear advice on client wardrobe pieces if you need it.
Earthy colours always work really well. A pop of floral or colour can work so nicely too and adds interest. I usually suggest keeping the pattern or floral to one family member. Your clothing should complement the surroundings.
Fabrics are best kept on the natural side. Cotton, linen, waffles etc.
Texture works really well in images. Knitwear in winter is perfect.
Neutrals are always safe, and always work beautifully indoors and out.
mum
It’s a good idea to decide on your outfit first, then style the rest of the family from there, as we can be a little pickier in terms of what we like to wear.
I’m a huge fan of a mum in a dress. I think it’s a beautiful opportunity to wear something that makes you feel special. I have some beautiful pieces in the client wardrobe available to all mothers to use during your session.
Once you have chosen your dress, you will want to carefully consider which underwear will best suit your dress choice.. well-fitting underwear in nude and neutral colors that compliment your skin tone is always a good choice.
Babies/Toddlers
Instead of two-piece outfits (pants and shirts) go for an all-in-one. When you pick up babies and toddlers, the shirts ride up, nappies come out the tops of pants and it gets too fussy. The easier the better and gives us more opportunities for amazing photos.
You can layer them for cooler months with knits and tights. Summer is the perfect time to get those chunky thighs out with legless rompers!
Store suggestions: Jamie Kay, Miann & Co, Zara, Best and Less, H&M, Cotton On, Grown Store, Ziggy Lou
Older children.
Dresses are great for little girls. Just make sure the underwear is neutral. Older girls love something to spin around in. Tops/knits tucked into skirts also look amazing. Knitwear is beautiful in photos and creates interest/texture in your photos.
On balmy nights in summer at water locations, no top is needed. Let them be little, topless + shorts or a sweet summer dress is all they need.
Jeans/chinos/shorts/boardshorts for boys.
Avoid collars and fabrics that crease easily. Stiff shirts aren’t so comfy for kids running around. Long sleeve Henley-style tops work much better, they are particularly beautiful in a waffle fabric.
T-shirts with a denim shirt over the top are also a cute combo.
Store suggestions: Zara, Best and Less, Cotton On, Industrie, H&M
dads
Jeans, chinos, shorts. t-shirts, knits, t-shirts layered with a shirt over the top (this is more slimming) are all great options.
Something with texture always works best. Linen, waffle and knits always look best, over a flat t-shirt.
Keep it relaxed. there is a lot of movement in family photos. you will be throwing, holding, jumping and even getting wet if you choose a water location. Its about elevated casual, not formal.
Store suggestions: Target, Industrie, Tarocash, Connor, Country Road
Kids footwear
For cooler months & rugged / grassy locations, boots are perfect. Covering the toes & feet. Allowing them to walk confidently over rocks and through long grass. A neutral colour means they don’t grab attention and will blend in beautifully with the natural landscape.
Footwear is the most overlooked part of a shoot styling & can make a huge difference. Whilst beach shoots are barefoot, if shoes are required then neutral coloured sandals are great!