What to wear

Family members celebrate joyfully on beach during seaside gathering.

Say it together with me

"treat yo self"


The best tip I can give, is to plan ahead and pick an outfit that makes you feel good. It doesn't have to be the latest trend or the most expensive outfit. It just needs to be something you don't feel awkward wearing. Pick something that makes you feel like yourself, confident and not uncomfortable. It will reflect in your photos and you will radiate. The best sessions are those where the subject is at ease.


I'm a mom and when I start planning for family photos, I put everyone else first and typically have 3-4 new outfits for my daughter to wear and then last minute I'm scrounging through my closet trying to find something for myself, then feeling frumpy and hating what I wear. Do NOT do this. Put you first. You deserve it.


Okay, now that the PSA is done. Heres some tips for what to look for and what to avoid.


  • DO: Be casual and comfortable with a little bit of glam
  • DO: Choose colours that compliment each other
  • Warm, earthy tones
  • Deep, rich colours
  • DO: Coordinate colours without everyone matching in the exact same colour
  • DO: Pick clothes that your kids will be comfortable in
  • DO: Flowy dresses, skirts or shirts can add great movement to photos
  • DO: Accessorize
  • Add a sweater, jacket or hat
  • DO: Plan ahead early, don't leave it to last minute
  • DON'T: Be afraid to use patterns and textures, they can add great depth to photos
  • Pick one outfit with a pattern or multiple colours and then build everyone else's outfits to coordinate
  • DON'T: Avoid distinguishing labels, character clothing and baseball caps
  • DON'T: Wear super bright or neon colours.. especially if everyone else is in warmer or more neutral clothing
  • For example: Bright red tends to wash out the tones of your face


Okay, START PLANNING!!!

Ottawa Family Photographer