Styling Guide
What you wear makes all the difference
Styling your session can be much easier than you may expect. I have put together this little guide to help you put together the
perfect pieces that will help your session look impeccable styled.
I am more than happy for you to layout your chosen outfits and send me a picture of them. I can provide guidance as to whether
the outfits photograph well, suit the location and compliment each other nicely.
Styling Guide
What you wear makes all the difference
Styling your session can be much easier than you may expect. I have put together this little guide to help you put together the
perfect pieces that will help your session look impeccable styled.
I am more than happy for you to layout your chosen outfits and send me a picture of them. I can provide guidance as to whether
the outfits photograph well, suit the location and compliment each other nicely.
what not to wear
There's a lot of text here without images because I don't want to shame anyone with their wardrobe choice. But please read it and then the good stuff is below :)
BLACK
If you like my style of photography, you will notice that I do not recommend any dark shades ... ever!
I find the contrast between dark clothing and everyone's skin is just too strong and is a distraction when looking at the photograph. This is especially true when dealing with the delicate skin of newborn babies.
LOGOS AND LICENSED CLOTHING
We all know that the kids love these kinds of clothes (and also the dads!) I’m referring to the Disney princess and superhero clothes, and the t-shirts with huge sports slogans across them.
If you want timeless photos to hang around your home, I would suggest steering clear of these types of clothes on this occasion.
PATTERNS AND COLOURS THAT CLASH
I’m a big pattern lover and they can look beautiful in photoshoots, that is why I recommend incorporating them in your families wardrobe. But you do need to find the right balance.
You should avoid all wearing bold items and colours that clash with one another.
Very thin stripes and checks can be difficult for the camera to register, creating a very strange effect. So keep them big and on one person only.
MATCHY MATCHY OUTFITS
Think 1990's everyone in jeans and white tops! This look has been done many times in the past, and although it was a hit a the time, I would suggest getting a little more creative and unique to your family.
Let's come up with a fresh new look that reflects your family.
THE WRONG UNDERWEAR
Please consider underwear for the whole family. Plain underwear for little ones (leave the patterns and Disney ones at home) in case they are wearing lighter coloured clothing.
Mums, I can't edit bra straps out of an entire gallery, so again be thoughtful when choosing the underwear for your outfits.
FORMAL SHIRTS AND TIGHT CLOTHING
Keep it softer. more casual and easier to move in. If wearing collared shirts, leave the top buttons undone, the cuffs rolled up and the shirt not tucked in.
T-shirts feel a lot more relaxed. Loose linen photographs much better than stiff cotton. We want more day with the family and less going to an "event".
SHOES
I’m all for barefoot sessions, especially if we’re at the beach or in your home. I always suggest leaving shoes off as this suits these environments so well.
If we are in bushland or another outdoor setting, wear suitable footwear that works well with your outfits but is easy to walk around in (ditch the heels and formal shoes!) But I wouldn't recommend scuffed sneakers either.
WATCHES AND HAIR BANDS
I know how useful apple watches and garmins can be, but they become quite a distraction in photographs when you have so carefully curated the families wardrobe.
And don't forget the hair elastics around the wrist, you'll be surprised how often they're forgotten.
Remember to also remove phones and wallets from your pockets.
SUNGLASSES
Sunglasses need to be out of sight for the photos, not just on top of your head.
Please also remember your transition glasses. When we are outside, they quickly become dark and I can no longer see your eyes.
what not to wear
There's a lot of text here without images because I don't want to shame anyone
with their wardrobe choice. But please read it and then the good stuff is below :)
BLACK
If you like my style of photography, you will notice that I do not recommend any dark shades ... ever!
I find the contrast between dark clothing and everyone's skin is just too strong and is a distraction when looking at the photograph. This is especially true when dealing with the delicate skin of newborn babies.
LOGOS AND LICENSED CLOTHING
We all know that the kids love these kinds of clothes (and also the dads!) I’m referring to the Disney princess and superhero clothes, and the t-shirts with huge sports slogans across them.
If you want timeless photos to hang around your home, I would suggest steering clear of these types of clothes on this occasion.
PATTERNS AND COLOURS THAT CLASH
I’m a big pattern lover and they can look beautiful in photoshoots, that is why I recommend incorporating them in your families wardrobe. But you do need to find the right balance.
You should avoid all wearing bold items and colours that clash with one another.
Very thin stripes and checks can be difficult for the camera to register, creating a very strange effect. So keep them big and on one person only.
MATCHY MATCHY OUTFITS
Think 1990's everyone in jeans and white tops! This look has been done many times in the past, and although it was a hit a the time, I would suggest getting a little more creative and unique to your family.
Let's come up with a fresh new look that reflects your family.
THE WRONG UNDERWEAR
Please consider underwear for the whole family. Plain underwear for little ones (leave the patterns and Disney ones at home) in case they are wearing lighter coloured clothing.
Mums, I can't edit bra straps out of an entire gallery, so again be thoughtful when choosing the underwear for your outfits.
FORMAL SHIRTS AND TIGHT CLOTHING
Keep it softer. more casual and easier to move in. If wearing collared shirts, leave the top buttons undone, the cuffs rolled up and the shirt not tucked in.
T-shirts feel a lot more relaxed. Loose linen photographs much better than stiff cotton. We want more day with the family and less going to an "event".
SHOES
I’m all for barefoot sessions, especially if we’re at the beach or in your home. I always suggest leaving shoes off as this suits these environments so well.
If we are in bushland or another outdoor setting, wear suitable footwear that works well with your outfits but is easy to walk around in (ditch the heels and formal shoes!) But I wouldn't recommend scuffed sneakers either.
WATCHES AND HAIR BANDS
I know how useful apple watches and garmins can be, but they become quite a distraction in photographs when you have so carefully curated the families wardrobe.
And don't forget the hair elastics around the wrist, you'll be surprised how often they're forgotten.
Remember to also remove phones and wallets from your pockets.
SUNGLASSES
Sunglasses need to be out of sight for the photos, not just on top of your head.
Please also remember your transition glasses. When we are outside, they quickly become dark and I can no longer see your eyes.
What to Wear
THE ESSENTIALS!
COLOUR PALETTE
The best way to make your images timeless is to dress in neutral and pastel/muted tones. This way you don't have a vibrant colour that is too strong for the scene, trying to pull your attention away from what is important - the family connection! Think white, beige, cream, tans, soft blue, blush, sage green - the list goes on.
It is important to consider the actual shoot location when picking your colour palette. When your clothing compliments your surroundings, the overall feel of the images will be a lot more harmonious.
I also suggest you picture where the images are going to be displayed in your home.
FABRICS
Layering different textures when choosing your outfits is a great way to really bring your outfits together and add more interest. This is particularly true when everyone is wearing a similar shade, as the texture helps break up the solid colour.
Think cotton, linen, corduroy, velvet, chinos, denim, knits, lace - any textured clothing.
I also like fabric that flows, as it can look especially beautiful when captured blowing in the breeze.
PATTERNS
If everyone is wearing a very similar shade, a great way to break things up is by using patterns. And no, I'm not talking about a Hawaiian shirt!
I love the look of dainty patterns like small flowers and spots on a little girls outfit. Large checks and stripes can also look great on the boys.
We don't want everything to be too busy, so make sure some solid pieces in complimentary colours are included.
ACCESSORIES
These can be clothing accessories - an heirloom piece of jewellery, lovely headband or funky hat.
But they can be a larger prop that encourages the family to interact with each other. Think along the lines of blankets, picnic rugs, throws, a warm shawl, baby wraps or flowers.
Props such as these are a great way to add something a little different to your shoot. Remember, there is no expectations with accessories, feel free to bring them but with kids - who knows!
CONSIDER THE SEASON
Outdoor sessions happen right before sunset when the day cools off. The nights can cool down quickly, so always have a back up option if the weather isn't what your would expect it to be.
Cold children are not happy children! Be prepared.
Layers look good in camera and are a great way to deal with changing weather.
FOOTWEAR
For cooler months and rugged locations, boots are perfect for covering the toes and 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 landscapes.
In warmer months I love bare feet where appropriate. Otherwise, cute leather sandals or sneakers look great.
What to Wear
THE ESSENTIALS!
COLOUR PALETTE
The best way to make your images timeless is to dress in neutral and pastel/muted tones. This way you don't have a vibrant colour that is too strong for the scene, trying to pull your attention away from what is important - the family connection! Think white, beige, cream, tans, soft blue, blush, sage green - the list goes on.
It is important to consider the actual shoot location when picking your colour palette. When your clothing compliments your surroundings, the overall feel of the images will be a lot more harmonious.
I also suggest you picture where the images are going to be displayed in your home.
FABRICS
Layering different textures when choosing your outfits is a great way to really bring your outfits together and add more interest. This is particularly true when everyone is wearing a similar shade, as the texture helps break up the solid colour.
Think cotton, linen, corduroy, velvet, chinos, denim, knits, lace - any textured clothing.
I also like fabric that flows, as it can look especially beautiful when captured blowing in the breeze.
PATTERNS
If everyone is wearing a very similar shade, a great way to break things up is by using patterns. And no, I'm not talking about a Hawaiian shirt!
I love the look of dainty patterns like small flowers and spots on a little girls outfit. Large checks and stripes can also look great on the boys.
We don't want everything to be too busy, so make sure some solid pieces in complimentary colours are included.
ACCESSORIES
These can be clothing accessories - an heirloom piece of jewellery, lovely headband or funky hat.
But they can be a larger prop that encourages the family to interact with each other. Think along the lines of blankets, picnic rugs, throws, a warm shawl, baby wraps or flowers.
Props such as these are a great way to add something a little different to your shoot. Remember, there is no expectations with accessories, feel free to bring them but with kids - who knows!
CONSIDER THE SEASON
Outdoor sessions happen right before sunset when the day cools off. The nights can cool down quickly, so always have a back up option if the weather isn't what your would expect it to be.
Cold children are not happy children! Be prepared.
Layers look good in camera and are a great way to deal with changing weather.
FOOTWEAR
For cooler months and rugged locations, boots are perfect for covering the toes and 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 landscapes.
In warmer months I love bare feet where appropriate. Otherwise, cute leather sandals or sneakers look great.
Mums
MUMS, THIS IS FOR YOU! MY BIGGEST TIP WHEN STYLING YOUR FAMILY IS TO FIND SOMETHING YOU FEEL BEAUTIFUL IN. IT IS EASIEST TO START WITH ONE PIECE THAT YOU LOVE, A DRESS OR ANOTHER OUTFIT. I DO LIKE VARIETY IN OUTFITS (SO NOT EVERYONE WEARING THE SAME JEANS - CUT AND COLOUR), THAT IS WHY I SUGGEST SKIRTS AND DRESSES FOR THE GIRLS. THIS HERO PIECE CAN BE PLAIN OR PATTERNED. USE THE COLOURS FROM THE OUTFIT TO COORDINATE THE CLOTHES FOR THE REST OF THE FAMILY. WEAR SOMETHING THAT MAKES YOU FEEL AMAZING AND NO DOUBT YOU WILL FEEL FAR MORE RELAXED WITH A CAMERA FOLLOWING YOU AROUND.
HERO PIEEC
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 want to wear.
FLOWING FABRICS
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 love long flowing fabric, as it looks especially beautiful when captured blowing in the breeze. Anything too tight fitting will prevent you from interacting with your kids.
I will have you playing, sitting down and throwing the kids in the air. You can't move as freely in a body hugging dress - depending on the fabric of course.
UNDERWEAR
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 colours that compliment your skin tone is always a good idea.
STORES
Another option is dress rental. This is a great option if you'd prefer not to be a new outfit.
For maternity I can recommend
https://www.instagram.com/laneway.eleven/
https://mamarentals.com.au
Some great Women's store suggestions:
Country Road
Seed for Women
Witchery
Target
Kmart
Big W
Zara
HM
Myer
David Jones
Mums
MUMS, THIS IS FOR YOU! MY BIGGEST TIP WHEN STYLING YOUR FAMILY IS TO FIND SOMETHING YOU FEEL BEAUTIFUL IN. IT IS EASIEST TO START WITH ONE PIECE THAT YOU LOVE, A DRESS OR ANOTHER OUTFIT. I DO LIKE VARIETY IN OUTFITS (SO NOT EVERYONE WEARING THE SAME JEANS - CUT AND COLOUR), THAT IS WHY I SUGGEST SKIRTS AND DRESSES FOR THE GIRLS. THIS HERO PIECE CAN BE PLAIN OR PATTERNED. USE THE COLOURS FROM THE OUTFIT TO COORDINATE THE CLOTHES FOR THE REST OF THE FAMILY. WEAR SOMETHING THAT MAKES YOU FEEL AMAZING AND NO DOUBT YOU WILL FEEL FAR MORE RELAXED WITH A CAMERA FOLLOWING YOU AROUND.
HERO PIEEC
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 want to wear.
FLOWING FABRICS
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 love long flowing fabric, as it looks especially beautiful when captured blowing in the breeze. Anything too tight fitting will prevent you from interacting with your kids.
I will have you playing, sitting down and throwing the kids in the air. You can't move as freely in a body hugging dress - depending on the fabric of course.
UNDERWEAR
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 colours that compliment your skin tone is always a good idea.
STORES
Another option is dress rental. This is a great option if you'd prefer not to be a new outfit.
For maternity I can recommend:
https://www.instagram.com/laneway.eleven/
https://mamarentals.com.au
Some great Women's store suggestions:
Country Road
Seed for Women
Witchery
Target
Kmart
Big W
Zara
HM
Myer
David Jones
Dads
COMPLIMENT MUM'S DRESS
Jeans, chinos, shorts, t-shirts, knits and layers are a great option.
Something with texture always works best. Linen, waffle and knits 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 chose a water location.
It's about elevated casual, not formal.
STORES
Some great Men's store suggestions:
Country Road
Seed for Men
Unison
Industrie
Target
Kmart
Big W
Zara
HM
Cotton On
Jeans West
Just Jeans
Myer
David Jones
Older Kids
GIRLS
Dresses are great for little girls - just make sure their underwear is neutral. Older girls love something to spin around in. In warmer weather, a sweet summer dress is all they need.
Knits, scarves and beanies are a great addition when the weather is cooler. Knitwear is beautiful in photos and creates interest/texture in the photos. Match it with the dress or skirt, leggings and boots.
BOYS
Like the dads, bottoms like jeans, chinos or shorts or board shorts are perfect for the boys.
Avoid collars and fabrics that crease easily. Stiff shirts are not so comfy when running around. T-shirts and layers look great as it cools down. Long sleeve henley style tops work much better than stiff fabrics.
On balmy nights in summer at a water location, no top is needed. Let them be little. Topless and shorts is so cute.
STORES
A few of my favourite shops for the perfect outfit for your older kids:
Best and Less
Country Road
Seed
Target
Kmart
Big W
Zara
HM
Myer
David Jones
Baby and Todders
BASICS
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 of the tops of pants and skirts and it can quickly get fussy. The easier the better - which gives us more time for amazing photos.
You can layer in cooler months with knits and tights.
STORES
Some great affordable store suggestions:
Best and Less
Target
Kmart
Zara
HM
Cotton On
Myer
David Jones
Dads
COMPLIMENT MUM'S DRESS
Jeans, chinos, shorts, t-shirts, knits and layers are a great option.
Something with texture always works best. Linen, waffle and knits 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 chose a water location.
It's about elevated casual, not formal.
STORES
Some great Men's store suggestions:
Country Road
Seed for Men
Unison
Industrie
Target
Kmart Big W
Zara
HM
Cotton On
Jeans West
Just Jeans
Myer
David Jones
Older Kids
GIRLS
Dresses are great for little girls - just make sure their underwear is neutral. Older girls love something to spin around in. In warmer weather, a sweet summer dress is all they need.
Knits, scarves and beanies are a great addition when the weather is cooler. Knitwear is beautiful in photos and creates interest/texture in the photos. Match it with the dress or skirt, leggings and boots.
BOYS
Like the dads, bottoms like jeans, chinos or shorts or board shorts are perfect for the boys.
Avoid collars and fabrics that crease easily. Stiff shirts are not so comfy when running around. T-shirts and layers look great as it cools down. Long sleeve henley style tops work much better than stiff fabrics.
On balmy nights in summer at a water location, no top is needed. Let them be little. Topless and shorts is so cute.
STORES
A few of my favourite shops for the perfect outfit for your older kids:
Best and Less
Country Road
Seed
Target
Kmart
Zara
HM
Myer
David Jones
Baby and Toddlers
BASICS
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 of the tops of pants and skirts and it can quickly get fussy. The easier the better - which gives us more time for amazing photos.
You can layer in cooler months with knits and tights.
STORES
Some great affordable store suggestions:
Best and Less
Target
Kmart
Zara
HM
Cotton On
Jamie Kay
Myer
David Jones
"STYLE IS A WAY TO SAY WHO YOU ARE, WITHOUT HAVING TO SPEAK."
Click to View My
PINTEREST BOARDS
I don't find a client wardrobe to be necessary for the way that I work - a lot of my clients have their own style and I love to keep things authentic to them. My ultimate goal is to deliver a gallery that reflects who you are in every aspect - clothing included!
You are always very welcome to text me photos of your outfits so I can help you decide on what looks great for the session.
I’ve also created some Pinterest boards for you with lots of colour palettes and clothing combination ideas so you can get some more inspiration on how to put outfits together.
Click
To View my
Pinterest Boards
I don't find a client wardrobe to be necessary for the way that I work - a lot of my clients have their own style and I love to keep things authentic to them. My ultimate goal is to deliver a gallery that reflects who you are in every aspect - clothing included!
You are always very welcome to text me photos of your outfits so I can help you decide on what looks great for the session.
I’ve also created some Pinterest boards for you with lots of colour palettes and clothing combination ideas so you can get some more inspiration on how to put outfits together.