I am so glad you’re here! As a mom and photographer, I know just how fast childhood flies by. They go from being tiny and snuggled in your arms to running around, full of personality and wonder in no time. That’s why heirloom portrait mean so much! They freeze time in the most beautiful way.

At Lynn-D Gunter Photography, I specialize in heirloom portrait photography in Columbia and Lexington, SC, and I want to make this experience as easy and enjoyable as possible for you.

One of the biggest questions I get? What should my child wear. The right wardrobe turns a simple portrait into a timeless treasure. I’ve got you covered! Here are my best tips to help you choose the perfect outfit for your little one.

1. Keep It Classic

Trendy outfits might look cute today, but they won’t stand the test of time. For heirloom portraits, classic is always the way to go. Think delicate smocked dresses, Peter Pan collars, or soft rompers. These styles have been around for generations and for good reason. They create an elegant, vintage feel that never looks outdated.

For girls, flowy bishop dresses with lace or embroidery are dreamy. Boys look handsome in simple button-up shirts, tailored rompers, or vintage-inspired overalls. Timeless and effortless.

2. Stick to Soft, Neutral Colors

Color can make or break a portrait. Soft, neutral tones like ivory, white, blush, pale blue, and cream create a dreamy and delicate aesthetic. These shades keep the focus on your child’s sweet expressions while also complementing any backdrop.

Bold or dark colors? They can be distracting. The goal is to keep the portrait feeling light and airy. That’s why pastels and neutrals work so well.

3. Fabric and Details Matter

The fabric choice makes a huge difference in photos. Natural materials like cotton, linen, and silk photograph beautifully. They create soft textures that add depth without overpowering the image. Fine embroidery, lace accents, and smocking bring an extra level of detail that makes heirloom portraits feel extra special.

Pro tip: Make sure the outfit is wrinkle-free! A well-pressed dress or romper can make all the difference in a polished, professional look.

4. Simple Accessories Only

Less is more when it comes to accessorizing. Keep it minimal so that the focus stays on your child’s face. A simple bow, a vintage bonnet, or a dainty pearl bracelet can be the perfect touch without overpowering the portrait.

Avoid trendy headbands, chunky jewelry, or anything too modern. The goal is elegance and timelessness, not something that will feel outdated in a few years.

5. Family Coordination

If you’re including siblings or parents in the portrait, aim for outfits that complement each other rather than matching exactly. Soft, neutral tones work beautifully across the whole family. Think of a cohesive palette rather than identical outfits.

Moms, flowing neutral dresses with delicate textures work perfectly. Dads look great in light button-ups with tailored trousers. Keep it simple, refined, and classic.

6. Plan Ahead

Trust me, don’t wait until the last minute to pick an outfit. Try everything on a few days before your session to ensure a perfect fit. This gives you time to steam or iron clothes and make any needed adjustments.

If something doesn’t look quite right, you’ll have time to swap it out without feeling rushed. Preparation makes the day of the session so much smoother!

7. Let Me Help!

Still not sure what to choose? No worries. At Lynn-D Gunter Photography, I offer a carefully curated client closet with heirloom-quality outfits. If you need guidance, I’m here to help with wardrobe selection and styling tips to ensure a cohesive, stunning look.

Book Your Heirloom Portrait Session Today

I would love to capture these fleeting moments for you! If you’re looking for heirloom portrait photography in Columbia and Lexington, SC, let’s create something beautiful together. From wardrobe planning to final artwork, I’m here to guide you every step of the way. Reach out, and let’s make magic happen!