Outfit Selection
Nailing the Look for Newborn, Family, Portrait, and Sitters Photography
A picture is worth a thousand words, but the right outfit can speak volumes more. In photography, what you wear can set the tone, express personality, and create a timeless memento. Whether you're capturing the innocent smile of a newborn, the loving glance between family members, a solo portrait, or the delightful giggles of a 7-9 month sitter, your wardrobe choices play a crucial role. Here's your comprehensive guide to choosing the perfect outfits for various photo sessions.
Newborn Photography: Comfort is Key
When it comes to newborn photoshoots, less is often more. The star of the show is the baby, and the outfit should complement their natural innocence. Soft, neutral tones work well and don't distract from the baby’s tiny features. It’s also important to remember that you may decide on purchasing a family album as your generational heirloom. Whether you choose an album, or a beautiful collection wall display, the pieces should be timeless. You don’t want to be reminded of your ‘Nike’ t-shirt, or your bold orange and green Zara suit in forty years from now when you open your beautiful album. You want the memories to linger on as thought the shoot was taken yesterday. Here are the things to think about when getting your wardrobe ready for the shoot:
Recommendations:
- Choose outfits made of cotton, linen, or other soft materials that will compliment the organic nature of your baby. Choose cream, white, beige or even soft tertiary pastels such as light peppermint, mushroom or light coffee colours. These are easy to match any of our stunning stages which are colourful and bold. You’ll choose your main colour theme when arriving to the studio, so you want to make sure that your outfits will ‘tell a story’ from image to image. The bold colour you choose from our rhapsody collection will work when wearing neutral colours. Avoid light grey as it’s difficult to align with other colours.
- Avoid overly intricate designs and logos. Don’t wear busy patterns or block colours. They take attention away from the baby and often clash with your colour choice of stages. You don’t want this to be a fashion shoot. It needs to reflect the purity of the baby.
- Accessorize Wisely: Avoid heavy jewelry and brightly coloured shoes.
Family Photography: Coordination is the Key
Coordinating outfits for a family photoshoot doesn’t mean everyone has to dress identicall, but at the same time, everyone’s attire should be coherent. The aim is to complement each other’s outfits. It’s a good idea to choose a ‘colour theme’. For example, if you choose navy blue, then think about the colours that work well with navy. You could mix navy with white, cream, red, orange or lemon for example. Think also about patterns that blend with navy too. Here is just one sample:
Recommendations:
- Color Palette: Stick to 2-4 colors that work well together to create a theme.. Think earth tones, or monochromatic schemes. Monochromatic simply refers to one colour and using that colour creatively. For example: navy blue is the theme. The monochromatic sample may include, light navy, white and navy stripes, blue dots on white, checkered navy and white etc.
- Layering: Layering adds texture and depth to photos. Consider jackets, vests, or scarves for added flair that work well together.
- Footwear: Make sure everyone's shoes match the style and formality of the clothing, and remember that they will appear in full-length shots.
Portrait Photography: Showcase Your Personality
Solo portrait sessions are your opportunity to showcase who you are. The outfits should align with your personality, and depending on what story you want to tell - the sky's the limit! When choosing a portrait session, then you can bring up to three outfits. Think about possibly one casual, one formal and maybe one totally out of the box that is creative. We work with gels as much as with natural mixed lighting.
Recommendations:
- Classic Cuts: Choose one classic outfit that is timeless. This could be smart casual or formal.
- Colors: Neutrals are always safe, but don’t shy away from colors that make your eyes pop or complement your skin tone. Make one of your outfits fun; bright and bold to show off your playful side if that is something that appeals to you.
- Texture and Detail: Fabrics like lace, silk, or fine knit can introduce texture, while accessories can add just the right amount of detail.
Sitters Photography: Adorable Yet Functional
For 7-9 month olds, or ‘sitters’, comfort should be your guiding principle, but there's room to have a little fun too.
Recommendations:
- Easy to Move In: Go for stretchy fabrics that allow your baby to move, sit, and play comfortably.
- Bold Colors: At this age, vibrant colors can be very striking and capture a sense of joy and curiosity.
- Props and Accessories: Think cute headbands, baby bow ties, or even a beloved toy to hold onto during the shoot. We provide props for sitters, but feel free to bring your baby’s favourite outfits and props that you particularly love.
The Universal Tips
- Avoid Logos and Text: They can be distracting and take away from the people in the photograph if you’re doing a family or newborn photoshoot. While colour can work well when planned, logos often get in the way of creative ideas.
- Fit Matters: Ensure all clothes are well-fitting. Baggy or tight clothes can distort body shapes in photos.
- Mind the Season: If the shoot is outdoors, consider the season. Light fabrics for summer and cozy, rich textures for winter can add a seasonal charm to your photos. Given we do indoors, then seasonal colours work all year round.
Wrapping Up
Your choice of outfit for any photoshoot—be it newborn, family, portrait, or sitters—can elevate the final product from good to sublime. So, spend some time thinking about your clothing options before the shoot. You're not merely taking photos; you're creating memories and heirlooms for years to come. Happy dressing!
Larissa (Studio Manager)