What to Wear for Family Pictures, Utah Family Photographer

I did 4-5 shoots at this mountain setting in American Fork Canyon. This year was the year of resurrecting a few old spots I used to shoot at to update my portfolio. I was so surprised at the response I got to those spots once I updated my portfolio and posted a few on my Instagram. It was good to mix it up a bit and add more variety to my go-to spots closer to home.

As for this family, I love photographing them. Sure I’m a little bias because they also happen to be family. She always comes to her family shoots looking awesome too. If you need a little inspiration on what to wear, learn from her. Here are a few words of advice that she did well

I know her dress was from Bohme, and I always tell Moms to start with themselves when outfitting their family. We are the most critical of ourselves so make sure you like what you are wearing and how you look overall. Then build the rest of the family around that. If you need to buy something, definitely consider buying at Bohme, they have so many cute things for pictures, that aren’t busy or distracting, but still super cute.
It’s so much easier to place family members when you vary everyones dominant color. If two people are wearing a black top, then I can’t put them next to each other, even if that’s what would look best according to height. Pictures are all about balance, and when I’m placing people, height and color, is a big part of what I pay attention to. It’s nice to have my options open in who can stand next to each other, plus it just looks better to not match, which brings me to my next point….
Don’t match. Sure there are times where there are exceptions to this rule, like for twins, or Christmas PJ sessions, but I’d say about 95% of the time, don’t match. Pictures are more interesting when there is variety in what everyone is wearing. You don’t even have to have a color theme, and last but not least, don’t choose a color, and then have everyone pop that same color.
Add layers. I love how the little boy and the oldest girl are in layers, it adds to the variety.
Add texture. This is much easier in the fall, but texture is always a plus no matter what season. All three of her kids have texture detail on them, and they all look great together. It’s best to stay away from really shiny fabrics and go with something with noticeable texture.
Vary your neutrals. Denim, khaki, leather brown, black, gray can all go in the same photo. You don’t need to choose one.
Stay away from logos or distracting patterns. Bold patterns, like buffalo check, can make one family member stand out a lot. Pattern is totally okay (see mom’s dress here) but don’t go with anything super loud or with words/logos