Family Style Guide | Brazos Valley Photographer

Having been a photographer here in the Brazos Valley for over 13 years, one of the most frequently asked questions is how to style your family for sessions.

When I do family photos for myself, I’m reminded that it can be HARD to figure out what to do with all your people!! I have five members in my family… and a few that have BIG opinions on what they wear.

If you’re someone who prefers video to reading, we’ve put all the info in a handy video! You can find it at the bottom of this page AND on our facebook and instagram accounts for quick access!

Step 1: CHECK IN YOUR CLOSET AND AROUND YOUR HOME

Often, we are drawn to the same colors… whether we are buying a new dress or new throw pillows. What colors are you drawn to? Neutrals? Jewel tones? The colors you are drawn to are the ones that you’ll want up on your walls!

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Step 2: CHOOSE 3 COLORS

From the colors you’ve noticed, choose 3 of them that compliment each other. I know!! Choosing complimentary colors can be a science (actually it is!) but it doesn’t have to feel overwhelming! This fall, you’ll find beautiful shades of blues, oranges, and even our beloved Aggie maroon make appearances on clothing. Try to avoid pure white and deep blacks, as these tend to photograph more harshly than creams and charcoal greys.

Step 3: PICK A PATTERN

Pattern is a great way to add interest and a pop to your family images. This year, animal prints are EVERYWHERE from kids clothing to women’s shoes. In family photos, you generally want to only have 1-2 people in a pattern so the focus stays on the family and not what you’re wearing.

PRO TIP: small gingham and checkered pattens, often seen on men’s shirts, can create an optical illusion of movement and not photograph well.

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Step 4: ADD SOLID COLORS

When you find that pattern you like, pull the solid colors from that and use those to dress the rest of your family. This will ensure that everyone coordinates, but your pictures won’t be the matchy-matchy photos we all remember taking at Sears in the 90’s.

Step 5: FINISH WITH TEXTURES

It’s all about the little details. Going back to the idea of home design, whether we realize it or not, we feel like a room is put together when it includes the little things: fresh flowers in a vase, fun pillows and throws, and family photos displayed in unique ways. For family photos, don’t overlook these details – a fun scarf, jewelry, a fuzzy vest, or a bow tie.

Still have questions or want some one on one help? Reach out! I love helping clients figure out the right outfits for their session!

Looking to book a fall family session? Contact me at 979-739-2797 or via email at info@shannonmorton.net

Special thanks to Revival Living Interiors and Ali Michelle Interiors for the use of their images! You can find them each on Instagram at: @reviviallivinginteriors and @alimichelle_interiors