1. Pick a location

The location of your photos will be important to decide before you pick any outfits.

Almost all of my sessions are done on the beach as the white sands and soft sunsets create a beautiful, yet undistracting backdrop for your family. 

For beach sessions pastel blues, whites, and tans all pair nicely with the colors of the beach. Again, we want your family to be at the forefront of these images, so selecting muted colors allows for your family's beauty to shine through!

2. consider where your photos will be displayed

Thinking about the color scheme of the location your photos will be displayed will tie your decor together in a seemingly effortless way.

Will your photos be hanging in your foyer? Or perhaps in an album on your living room table?

3. Choose a color scheme
(and coordinate, don’t match!)

Select a color scheme and coordinate within that range. Some specific color palettes that I suggest are neutrals (white, tan, brown), greens, and blues.

An important note here is that it's always better to coordinate rather than match. It might be tempting for the ease of it to tell everyone to wear a white shirt and black pants, but trust me when I say coordinating within a color palette will look much more timeless and elevated.

4. wear muted colors

Bright colors might be distracting and take the focus away from your family and the connection between you that I so love to photograph.

That being said, these are your photos, so if you truly love bright colors, wear them!

No matter your color scheme, muted tones are ideal in photographs, as they display better in print and are more timeless.

5. wear subtle patterns & textures

Avoid patterns that are too big, too bold, or generally distracting. Some examples of textured and patterned fabrics that bring interest without being too distracting are lace, linen, chunky sweaters (only in the winter, of course!), velvet, suede, and corduroy!

Patterns and textures can add visual interest to your photos when done in moderation.

6. dress true to your family

If your child absolutely hates green, then don’t force them to wear it. Likewise, if you’re the kind of person who never wears dresses, don’t feel obligated to do so for photos!

You will always look back and remember not looking or feeling your best if you opt for something that isn't true to you!

While it’s easy to get excited about photos and trends you see online, it’s important to remember these photos are about capturing your family as their best, realest selves.