but what will we wear?

It’s fall family photo season, and the hardest part for many is the outfits. What on earth do you wear for family photos so that they look like you and not some other family? My mottos are “simple is best” and “show up as you are,” so those guide all of my best tips. I'm no fashion expert, but here's a family that I think checks all the right boxes. (Side note: I don't judge any of my clients for what they wear--I think you're all wonderful. These are just some tips if you want 'em and want to help me keep the focus on your sweet faces not your clothes.)

1. I can't vouch for whether Sarah did this, but shop your closets first! If they don't have something that works or they need something new, then look for things that are similar to what they already wear. Don't be like me and pay your kid to wear a shirt they hate (true story). Everyone looked comfortable in these outfits and I can attest that they moved easily (as I had them scramble up the banks of this creek bed to get to another spot 😅). It's OK if you want to wear your nicer clothes, but make sure it's not something totally uncharacteristic or uncomfortable.

2. These colors are rich (not just neutrals), but not too bright and feel seasonally appropriate. They have a similar tone and the colors all play nicely together, but there's nothing that's perfectly matched. This helps it feel much more natural. For all you know, I could've picked this family up from a nice restaurant and begged them to model for me. (I didn't but you get what I'm saying, right??) I love the use of a rich caramel, navy, deep coral, and mid-toned lavender on the four children—maroon and gold are not the only fall colors!

3. There's some interest with patterns, textures, and layers. They used a couple of small, non-distracting patterns and no one's outfit is just the same pieces as the others'. Look at the older sisters: one is in a jacket, dress, and boots while the other is wearing black jeans, sandals, and a sweater with a velvet headband. Think about your children's preferences and personalities. My daughter LOVES dresses, my middle guy HATES jeans, and my oldest will wear pretty much whatever I get him.

If you want your photos to reflect your family, let them wear what suits them so we can focus on making it a fun & enjoyable experience. When your goal is to have everyone looking relaxed and like they're having fun, then ya kinda gotta let them relax and have fun.