dress guidelines for portraits

children*maternity*engagements

simplify. People are the focus of a portrait, so don’t wear or dress your child in something that will distract from the face. Logs of big, flashy jewelry, bright reds and oranges, and busy prints will draw attention away from you and may create chaotic photos. Stick with classic pieces and solid colors. Simple dresses, khakis or jeans and long sleeved tee shirts, button downs, or polo shirts are always in style and will give you a classic look. Sweaters are nice as long as they are not too bulky

color notes: For couples or multiple children, it is best if everyone is dressed in the same tonal family. Stick with warm colors (tans, pinks, browns, etc.) or cool colors (blues, greens, grays, black, etc.), or mix it up but stick to one color intensity. For example, if one person wears a pale blue and another navy, this results in visual confusion. The person dressed in the paler color will appear to be further forward and larger, while the darker color will recede. Avoid dramatic yellows and greens, as they may adversely affect skin color.

babies and children: Remember to keep it simple. Some great portraits can be taken of your baby in nothing but a diaper. If clothing is worn, stick with just a few items. Too many clothing changes or accessories can create stress for your little one, and when a child gets overwhelmed, it can be difficult to get back on track and capture a happy mood!

other tips: Dress in something that makes you (or your child) comfortable. If you are comfortable, you will be more relaxed, and if you are relaxed you will look more natural and happy. These guidelines are intended to assist, not to intimidate.

remember: Rules can often be successfully bent or broken. Think about the setting for our photo shoot. Portraits taken in your home will have a different feel than photographs taken outdoors, and urban outdoor settings are different from rural. If you have specific questions about your portrait session, please feel free to contact me!