FAMILY PHOTO STYLING

Fall is that time of year when the weather is perfect for families to get together and take some new photos! But planning what to wear, not just for yourself, but for the ENTIRE family, well, it can be overwhelming. So we want to help make it easier for you!

For our styled family photos we partnered with Bumps 'n' Bundles to create two coordinated family looks. We first chose the mom's outfit at SOMETHINGchic. We then took that outfit to the team at Bumps 'n' Bundles and they styled the kids outfits. The color palettes evolved as the kids outfits were coordinated with mom's outfit. Lastly, we hand picked styles for the dads right from their own closets. Don't the guys usually just wear what you tell them anyway? We kept in mind our key styling principles listed below...

1. PUT YOURSELF FIRST

Choose your outfit FIRST. And choose the color you want to wear too. Be confident and LOVE what you wear. Don't put yourself last; which as a mom I know you tend to put your family's needs above your own. This time you get to be first! You never want to plan everyone else’s outfits and then settle for something to wear because it’s the only thing that will mesh well. The struggle is real when you can't find the right style in the right color in the right size (anyone been there?). Kids and spouses are easier to style and fit. Once you have YOUR outfit, build from there. 

2. SOLID & SUBTLE

When choosing your family color palette pick 2-3 colors and then have variations of those colors. It's about coordinating and not being matchy-matchy. When choosing colors, pick solid colors and/or subtle prints. The point of family pictures is for your beautiful faces to show and not be overpowered by bold, loud, and distracting prints or colors. Solid colors and subtle prints are also more timeless. Notice the subtle prints in dad's and baby's outfits below? Big sister even has a tonal print to her dress and all the prints compliment each other.  Another thing to think about is if you are planning to hang these photos in your home; will they coordinate with your aesthetic? Thus the reason to not choose say, neon colors (unless that's totally your jam ;) )?

3. GET DRESSY

Wear something more dressy than your everyday, but not like you're about to attend a black tie event or anything like that. This could even mean dressing up your basics with layers and accessories. As we'll mention below, your outfits should still feel like "you" and if more dressy isn't 'you', then don't go over the top.

4. STAY TIMELESS

A family photoshoot is not the place to make a bold fashion statement or try out a fleeting trend (in our opinion). Stick to more timeless looks. And again, why solid colors and subtle prints are the way to go. These photos are ones you'll want to look back on, to hang in your home, and you want to love them for years to come.

5. FLATTER YOUR FIGURE

Choose figure flattering clothing, no matter your size. You want to give your body some shape. Skip boxy or shapeless pieces that won't translate well in photos. Now, we don't mean you have to wear something skin tight. Rather, choose styles that you are able to show off your figure, such as a relaxed fit top that you can style to define your waist by tucking in or belting. Notice how we gave the sweater on Krystal a front tuck? It helps define her waist and gives the top more shape.

6. LAYER UP

Play with layers to help add texture and dimension. This can be a denim or leather jacket, a cardigan, a faux fur vest, etc. Mix it up with corduroy, faux fur, leather, or chunky knit pieces. And this isn't necessarily a layer, but a hat is another good option for adding style and dimension.

7. BE YOURSELF

Above all, just be yourself. Make sure whatever outfits you choose, they are YOU. The last thing you want is to feel uncomfortable during the photos, so make sure your personalities and vibes are also a part of your decision-making when planning.

8. LAY THEM OUT

Once you have everyone's outfit chosen, lay them out and see how they mesh. Are they coordinated? Do they compliment each other? Again, it's not about being matchy-matchy or perfect by any means. 

We can't wait to see what you come up with! We hope these tips and tricks will help you in coordinating your family's outfits. We want to help make it easier for you, so please reach out with any questions. And if you want help, we would love to help you style your family!

All photos are by Font & Figure located in Billings, MT. Check out her Instagram here!