5 Tips on What To Wear to your Portrait Session

One of the most common questions I get from the families I photograph is, “what should I wear?” I most definitely want my families to be themselves and wear something that makes them feel confident and comfortable, but the truth of the matter is, what you wear can make or break your session. Luckily, I’ve got you! All of my Penguin Pictures families have the luxury of using my amazing online styling tool, Style and Select. When you book a session you immediately receive my access code and will be able to shop for proven pieces that coordinate and photograph beautifully… and best of all, right from home!

BUT… even without this service there are some important things you can do when putting together your session’s wardrobe…

1. Pick a color pallet that works with your location

Pay close attention to the colors that your surroundings will be, as well as the season you have chosen (locations can change drastically depending on the time of year). Think of your location as your wardrobe’s color pallet. I typically suggest picking at least two colors, and sometimes a 3rd pop of color, that are complimentary to the area you choose. For example, the family pictured below knocked it out of the park with shades of blues and tans that were found naturally at their Seattle area Pacific Northwest beach location.

Family of 4 walking walking on a Pacific Northwest Beach on a windy day.

2. Choose clothing with movement

Nothing adds more interest to an image better than movement! Try to imagine the photo below if this beautiful mom was wearing tight fitted, neutral colored pencil skirt. Your clothing can absolutely help tell your story! This wardrobe helps portray how fun and in love this couple is!

Husband dances and twirls his wife in a bright yellow flowing yellow skirt next to a graffiti wall in downtown Seattle.

3. Mix Textures and Patterns

Gone are the days of wearing matching white shirts with jeans. Mixing it up will add interest and dimension to your look making your image fun!

Mom and Dad use a colorful blanket to swing their son and daughter on a beautiful mountain top in Mt. Rainier.

4. Accessorize

Add a hat, some suspenders, a scarf, jewelry … again it will add interest and polish your look.

Beautiful Mom in a hat kisses her toddler daughter at sunset in Joshua Tree National Park.

5. Don’t forget about the shoes!

One of the MOST important details that is often overlooked!!! The right shoes will pull together the entire outfit, so don’t forget about the shoes.

Two well-dressed toddler sisters holding hands and hiking up a meadow trail in Mt. Rainier National Park.
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