As promised, this week’s Information Tuesday post is about clothing. Both portrait and engagement session clients often ask us what we think. The most important thing, to us, is that you’re comfortable in what you’re wearing. We are pretty laid back and shoot that way. If you or your child feel uncomfortable in what they’re wearing, it will show in the photographs. Beyond that, yep, we’ve got plenty of opinions!
1. Texture
We love texture! Sweaters with cable and other textures add a richness that you’ll never get with a plain cotton tee. Look at Ava’s sweater dress, the different rolling textures at the hem, and also her headband even has texture. We do mostly prefer the textures to be solid in color as that’s not distracting, but any texture is great. (Also, you’ll note that the kids take center stage here and the parents are in supporting colors– this is great.)
While the Splendorio kids do match perfectly, they added visual interest by all wearing textured knits. In addition, they really dressed considering the surroundings.
Below, Evie and Jeff are dressed quite simply for their beach engagement session. But her sweater adds some dimension in an otherwise simple image.
2. Layers
Layers also add interest without adding distraction. The orange shirt Mandell is wearing beneath his Mom shirt adds a pop of color in an otherwise dark outfit. Layering denim jackets over dresses, layering sweaters with corduroy pants, ruffled dresses — these are all easy ways to add layers into your clothing choices.
3. Accessories
Technically, white tank tops are pretty boring, right? But with the accessories we added here with the cowboy hat and ruffled skit, it’s a great portrait! Sometimes letting the girls take center stage works pretty well. After all, most women know that adding the right necklace or hat can completely transform an outfit. Below, the Presser girls look adorable in their gold leggings and Converse. The right accessories really dress up a portrait.
4. Complementing Colors
Years later, I still use this great portrait of the Ver Steegs as an example of awesome attire. They’re all dressed in complementing colors, but no one matches exactly. Jeans, black pants, black lace shirts (texture), sweaters… they all meld wonderfully. For a full family, you don’t get any better than this.
Below, the Weinstocks complemented each other very well, all dressing in greens, yellows, and pinks for their family lifestyle beach session. The kids suits all have subtle patterns and textures that blend nicely as well.
Below, Amber and Trevor complement each other so well! They are at the same level of formality and in similar tones.
5. Naked. But I guess that really only works for newborns!
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