I'm not gonna lie.... the first time I had a family ask "what should we wear for pics", I was a little lost. I can take photos- but dressing the families had me all kinds of stressed!

And now I have to say, I love this part of my job. I enjoy watching the trends, and imagining how everything will look in my images. (It also gives me a chance to pretend that I wear anything other than boyfriend jeans and white tee....)

I give the same advice no matter when the session is, or who it's for. Moms- dress yourselves first. Yep- I totally just told you to put yourself first. You're welcome. Pick something that will make you feel comfortable, beautiful, and looks like you. Being on the other side of the camera with my own family, I know that family pics are a lot of work for the mommas. Make this part easy on yourself! Pick what you want to wear, and then build the rest of the family. Because let's be real..... the kids will look cute no matter what they wear, and Dad just has to show up in pants and a button down, and he'll look put together.

When you are deciding what you want the rest of your family to wear, try to pick from a palette of 2-3 colors. Don't be afraid to incorporate patterns and prints! And seriously, most of all.... make sure it looks like you. We are capturing your memories :)

Please also take weather into consideration.... kids tend to freak if they are even a little too hot or too cold. At least mine do. Something tells me I'm not alone.

Below are my inspiration boards for some visual help... enjoy!

A few of my clients have asked for clothing suggestions for our upcoming Fall Mini Sessions. I put together some tips for dressing your family for photos.

*** Disclaimer: I am the girl who considers gray and beige "colors" in her wardrobe. My pop of color is usually a red lip. If you show up in a white tee shirt and jeans, I'll still think you look great.

1.) Choose a color theme. Keep it simple! I suggest picking 1 or 2 colors that you like from Pantone's fashion color report for fall 2016 and incorporating it into a couple of pieces for your family to wear. (The rest of the pieces should be neutral).

2. ) Mix prints! Don't feel like you need stick to one print... plaids, stripes, polka dots, florals- all are welcome.

3.) Be comfortable. Since we are shooting outdoors at the end of October, dressing for the weather is best. Choose outfits that can have layers. Be sure to choose outfits that are comfortable. Kids will not care if they look cute- they want to be able to move!

4.) Most importantly, be true to yourself. My passion is capturing the hearts of my clients, even in more traditionally posed sessions. If you are daring- you can even let your kids pick out their own clothes. We are preserving who they are today.... and sometimes that involves a princess crown or a cape.

I have put together a Pinterest board with some other ideas/looks to help.

Can't wait to see all of your smiling faces soon!