In any group photo you want to look similar. This makes the family the main subject and no one person stands out. That's why wedding photos always look so good - because everyone is wearing either the same colours or colours that match tonally. So here are my recommendations when planning what to wear:
Choose to wear either the same colour or shades of the same colour.
If you do not want to wear the same colour, then choose a maximum of 3 colours that have similar tones and go well together. I have some great examples on my pinterest board - just click on the green button below.
Try to wear solid colours. Avoid big bold stripes, large logos, writing or cartoon characters on t-shirts. This can be very distracting.
If you are doing your photographs outdoors. Think about the surroundings. If you are on the beach think about blues, greens, white, pinks, cream, coral pink - all working well with the colours around you. If you are doing your photographs in the desert you may want to go for golds, tans, creams, browns etc.
Ladies avoid short skirts, as this can make bending and sitting quite a challenge.
Keep jewellery simple and minamalistic. Too much draws attention away from your face.
Make sure your clothes are flattering. E.g if you are self conscious about your arms - make sure you wear a sleeve.
Make sure you are comfortable - and especially make sure the kids are comfortable. If they are dressed in suits or stiff frilly dresses that they don't feel comfortable in - it will show in the photograph !
What you choose to wear for your maternity photo session is so incredibly personal. Some moms want to to show their bellies, some don't. Some have parts of their bodies that they want to keep covered - others don't. The best advice is to have a look at some of the ideas on my pinterest board, and plan your clothing according to what images you want to capture. I will also always try to meet with you before your photo session to chat about what you prefer, and help you plan your wardrobe. I have a lovely range of gorgeous dresses and outfits specifically for maternity photography that will be available to you on the day of your photo session.
My other recommendation would be to deceide on whether you want your photos to be outdoors or in studio. An outdoor photo session can be incredibly beautiful in this amazing city that offers magnificent beaches, serene deserts or many other vibrant location choices. If you are doing your photographs outdoors. Think about the surroundings. If you are on the beach think about blues, greens, white, pinks, cream, coral pink - all working well with the colours around you. If you are doing your photographs in the desert you may want to go for golds, tans, creams, browns etc.
If you choose to have your photos in studio, you have the option of a large range of photographs showing off your belly more in a discreet, private and relaxed setting, where I control the light. This also makes it much more flexible in terms of the time of the photo session.
Have a fresh coat of nail polish on your nails that works with your outfit, or don't have any nail polish at all. Avoid chipped nail polish.
Wear makeup, even if you don't normally. If you don't usually wear makeup use a tinted moisturiser and mascara. This will help your skin tone and make your eyes stand out.
If you do normally wear make-up, I suggest spoiling yourself and going to have your make-up and hair done professionally if you can. You'll have fun pampering yourself and you will look and feel amazing.
Do bring along make-up for touch ups. Also bring a brush and hairspray just in case.
For the Dads and kids make sure that if you need a hair cut, have it done a week before your photos. That way you'll be used to working with your new hair style.
don't
Don't wear character clothing or logo's. It detracts from your family. This means no Dora, Frozen, Nike swoosh signs or light up shoes !
Don't wear a bright bra. Nude colour bra's work best. Make sure your bra is strapless if you are wearing spaghetti straps or any clothing where the bra straps can be seen.
Don't wear chipped nail polish
Don't wait until the last minute to put together your clothes.