If you are anything like me, you probably struggle with how to dress for mini session. The great news is, I am better at dressing others than dressing myself!

 

 

How to dress for your mini session

Determine your color palette

I recommend a soft, neutral palette. The best colors to photograph are whites, creams, beiges, soft blues, soft mauve pinks, soft “sagey” greens. Avoid bold colors and wild prints completely! They tend to take the focus away from the family and instead put emphasis on the colors/prints.

Start with mom

The entire session needs to be styled around her. After all, she is the glue that holds the family together. I always want Mom to feel her most beautiful. I even encourage Mom to get her hair and make up done for her portraits. I understand investing in portraits is something that some families only do every so often. Why not get the most out of it by feeling your most beautiful? Once we figure out moms outfit, the rest falls into place.

Figure out the kids

Focus on 3 things:

1) Adding texture (different combinations of fabrics),

2) layers (adding cardigans or jackets),

3) design (small patterns).

Finish with Dad 

Isn’t it funny how Dad always goes with the flow? Men are the easiest. I always tell moms, “we can usually just pull dads outfit from the closet.” I say stick to a neutral pull over, sweater, or button up with no branding on it with khaki, navy or neutral colored pants. Oh yeah, one more thing, dads, please don’t come in sneakers. Yikes!

Leave the jeans at home

Okay, I am guilty of it too. Many times in the past I invested a lot of money into family portraits and we showed up to the session with jeans on. Now, when looking back at the pictures, I find myself wishing I had left the jeans at home and upgraded to a beautiful, stylish dress. I am not anti-jean. When done correctly a styled jean can be an amazing look. check these out: jeans.

 

Let’s take another look

 

I love it!

 

 

Lynn-D Gunter is a Columbia, SC Photographer. She specializes in newborn, maternity, motherhood, family, and baby sessions in the Columbia, South Carolina area. She also serves Irmo, Chapin,  Forest Acres, Cayce, and Lexington. If you’re interested in scheduling a portrait session, contact here! I am available for travel to Charleston, SC and Greenville, SC as well!  Please click here to see the experience.