My top styling tips for any session as a Family and Maternity photographer based in Yorkshire!
When I mention styling to my clients, some people start freaking out (understandably)! as it can feel very overwhelming. The thought of having to organise and co ordinate outfits for loads of kids, yourself and your partner can seem so daunting… However it’s actually really simple! Here are my go- to tips to make this experience as easy as possible.
A looked incredible in this two piece which showed off her bump so beautifully. The ruffle effect of the top draws the eye in, along with the line detailing across the skirt. When the skirt was floating in the water it created such gorgeous movement in the photos. A lighter colour was essential for this shoot as anything darker would’ve blended in too much in the water.
Firstly, why is styling important you might ask? I know some people don’t care much about clothes and that’s totally fine! The reason I place an emphasis on styling for your photo session is because it WILL elevate your images. A photograph with loads of mis matched colours and patterns or logo’s will subconsciously be very distracting. We don’t want to take away from the reason we’re doing this- to focus on your connection. Muted tones, soft colours and earthy vibes not only allow us to focus on YOU but they also compliment the beautiful locations. So, let’s get in to it…
This family co-ordinated so beautifully! All of the creams and tones were ever so slightly different which created layers and the wool texture of the jumper went so nicely with the ribbed effect on mum’s top! We also got movement with the hair!
Before our session I will always send a styling guide which has an abundance of ideas, tips and outfits I recommend. I also share my carefully curated Pinterest boards with you which I have for every season! Here are my basic tips to focus on.
Soft, muted colours- Beige, cream, browns, muted red’s and greens. Think earthy! These colours will complement the environment and bring a softness to your images.
Textures! Not many people think of this when putting outfits together but textures are so important to give those photographs a 3D feel to them. Some fabrics that I love to see are Wool, linen, waffle & lace to name a few.
Movement- In Spring/ Summer it’s always lovely to have someone in a floaty dress or long skirt which moves in front of the lens. In Autumn/ Winter I would recommend a long scarf or coat! You can also get gorgeous movement in your images with long hair which looks divine when there’s a breeze!
At home sessions are always more chilled. You don’t want to feel as thought you’re playing dress up in the house which wouldn’t be in keeping with the documentary style images. G wore some oversized jeans with an open linen shirt for a causal, chilling at home vibe! The denim and linen add texture and movement with the shirt draped slightly off one arm.
Sometimes it’s easier to know what to avoid when picking outfits for your session, so here are some things I wouldn’t do.
Bright colours, patterns and logo’s
All matching ( yes, everyone matching looks staged and rigid!) find clothes that compliment each other.
Anything you feel uncomfortable in. Trust me when I say, dress like yourself. Yes, you might want to jazz things up for your photographs but I promise when you look back you want to see yourself, feel yourself and feel comfortable.
I’m obsessed with these guys! The two matching dresses with spring colours for the little ones was perfect for a golden hour session. I knew we were shooting with a green background so pink was a great choice! Dad’s linen shirt add’s not only texture but compliments the surroundings and mum brought the lighter tones and texture with a butter yellow dress and textured cardigan.
I know that might all sound like a lot of information but I promise it’s really simple with my styling guides and mood boards! It’s also really fun and a lovely excuse to thrift some new items or treat yourself to something. I always say ask family and friends too if they have anything you can borrow! It doesn’t have to be an expensive extra if you don’t want it to be.
If you have a session booked with me I’m there every step of the way to guide you and advise on everything. It is all worth it in the end when you get those pictures you always dreamed of.
One of my favourite styled sessions to date! A gorgeous wintery beach walk with some divine textures! The wool jumpers, the movement in the skirt & hair, the pop of colour in his little hat! I Love it all! Both of them look great against the cliff backdrop whilst still dressed like themselves and for the season.
Get in touch to book your session! I’d love to chat more about your ideas and bring your vision to life!