Oh no! Blogs are suppose to have words, bloggy words. I prefer pictures. We should probably hire someone to write this, just as we're encouraging you to hire a professional to create your heirloom family photos. Because, somethings are best left up to the professional in the field. right?
So, If you're a professional writer, please help me! And, in return, I will create beautiful artwork for you.
These posts will show you our take on lighting, camera equipment, how to pose your best, (or not pose), and editing techniques. Just to name a few. It will be a "how to," so that you, my client and hobbyist, can make the most of your family portraits. You can't always have a professional photographer capture every birthday party or momentous family event....or in your kitchen during the silliest moment of the week. Hopefully these tips and tricks will help you create beautiful photos, share ideas, and spark creativity. We all can benefit from being a little artsy!
If you have any questions about photography or photoshop, please drop us a note on Facebook. A Little Artsy Studio
What to Wear
Do you agonize over selecting outfits for the perfect family photo?
Do you rush out to the store, multiple times, and spend hundreds?
Then, only to get yourself dressed last in something all black.
Because, black is slimming, right?? NO! Looking good is slimming.
Coordinating, but not matching, is appealing. Being in head-to-toe black only makes
you stand out more, but in an unflattering way.
I want your family photo experience to be fun for you and your family. If you are genuinely happy
and relaxed getting ready, it'll show in your portraits.
And, if you're family looks forward to the session and sees it as family fun time, BONUS!
Here's my take on stylishly coordinating your family's outfits. Feel free to make it your own.
Product and Purpose
First, where and how will your images be displayed? If you have no idea, we need to talk. Call me.
If you're primary purpose for a session is a Christmas card, then you might want to be dressed in seasonal clothing...maybe a little wintery. If you're considering a large canvas that will be displayed in your living room, then coordinate your colors with your decor. Remember, not matchy-matchy.
Grandparents usually prefer portraits of their grand babies looking at the camera in a more "posed" manner. Parents typically want that "special look" that highlights the age and stage their child is in. Considering your clothing options will help. If your child is comfortable and likes what they are wearing, you're more likely to get the look you want.
Style
What is your style? modern, vintage, bo-ho chic...no style? Everyone can do casual. Khaki, polos, barefoot, light flowey shirts. Add a few accessories and you're done!
I prefer clothing that is a little more timeless, without logos, or incredibly busy patterns. But, whatever your style, make sure your choices won't look too dated years from now. Remember the "all-demin" phase from the 80s...
Color Palette
Here are several groupings of clothing based off a few different color pallets. Some clients follow the groupings exactly, while others take it as inspiration.
I find it easier to select an outfit for the mom or daughter first, then build from there, adding coordinating shirts, layers, etc.
Layout all your options on your bed. Does anything stand out more than the rest? Pull it out. Is something just not working? Maybe it needs an accessory, colored tights, undershirt, different pants. etc. You don't need to spend hundreds on new clothes. You most likely have already collected items you already love. If you start about 2 weeks before your session, you're sure to be relaxed and ready on the big day. If you're missing just one thing that would make the entire assemble complete, borrow it from your friends!
You can always send me a photo of your options and I'll help you weed through it.
Accessories, Details, and SHOES
Kids with hats, sunglasses, chunky necklaces, vests, new or handmade bracelets....LOVE IT! We won't keep the hats on for the entire session, but giving your family something to "work with" will help bring out their individual personalities.
Hands always end up in a shot. Hands have a wonderful way of expressing love and joining people together.
Hands are great accessories, they caress, hold, cuddle...
You don't have to schedule a mani-pedi, unless you want to. But, tiding up those cuticles/nails and touching up chipped polish will certainly help you look your best.
Ladies, if you've been out in the sun or coloring your hair, please consider a root touch up. Thank you soooooo much!
Feet Matter. No sneakers, tennis shoes, jogging shoes, etc. Unless, we're actually working out. I know, your feet are waaaay down there. But, footwear should be a consideration when pulling together your entire outfit. Don't go out and buy all new shoes though. Go to a thrift store or borrow from a friend. Baby shoes are cute, tiny naked toes are better, (IMO).
**Dudes, men, teen boys: please wear sox. Matching sox. I mean, two of the same colored sox that match your outfit. Thanks! Yes, it needed to be said.
Look at this Mom of five rockin' sexy knee high boots!
This image ended up being a 16x20" canvas for the master bedroom.
Don't you want one too?!? (Of yourself, duh!)
Flip flops just wouldn't have had the same impact, wouldn't you agree?!
Layers and textures
I typically don't layer my clothing on a daily basis. I'm a t-shirt, comfy bottoms
sort of gal. But, for photos, layering shirts or adding a scarf will help add
visual interest to your photo. I also don't see tutus out-and-about,
but for this girl, it works!
Comfy?
Please be comfortable. Kids typically hate new clothes, tags, and scratchy fabric. But, if you're using the clothes you already own, you'll probably get a thumbs us from the fun-sized people. If there is something your kid absolutely wants to wear, but you dislike it, let them wear it for a few photos and then we can change. You might end up loving that image with the terrible outfit because of their little personality that it brings out. You can always keep the photo as blackmail for later too. Your choice.
Comfortable = relaxed = happy photos
Patterns
This is a hard one. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't. It all depends on the pattern, the size, color, and who is wearing it. Send me a photo.
Most of the time, a little pattern is great. Everyone in paisley is... usually not.
Session Location
While you're pulling together outfits, consider where you'd like to be photographed. Urban vs field of flowers? Cowboy boots on a Ferrari isn't going to work. Don't over think this. Go with what comes to mind first.
No-No's
I've given you a lot of tips on what to do. Here are a few no-no's.
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Hair cuts, color, trim look best if done about a week before your session.
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Boo-Boos. Don't stress. It happens. Let me know about it and we'll work around it. Don't let it ruin your session.
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Don't dress everyone in the same color. It looks blobby and lacks personality. Unless, you are a family sports team.
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While trendy is nice, don't over do it. It will date your photo. You can be fashionable and timeless.
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Kids shoes. I know they love their neon green Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle shoes with red monster sox, but borrow something from a friend. Or, we might go shoeless for your photo.
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Logos, graphics, and characters. Nope. Not going to happen. I know you have something else in your closet. Men's polo shirts usually have a little pocket logo. That's fine. Or, if your whole family is wearing Fan Gear before a wardrobe change, ok. But, please reconsider giant logos, graphics, and characters. Unless, you're wearing A Little Artsy Studio t-shirt. Your session will be free.
These State Fans couldn't wait to introduce their little dude to Sparty Nation.
Call me!
As always, call me. Text a photo. Email me questions.
But, do it the week before your session. We are here to help you, from start to finish.
