We all know that getting your family or group together for a formal photo session can be next to impossible. So when you actual do get the chance, preparing ahead of time can be as important as the photography itself. In this post I want to share some general guidelines and suggestions to help families be relaxed and look their best, so we can achieve some memorable results.

Coordinate, don’t match. If you are planning a portrait with multiple people, coordinate your wardrobes ahead of time. Encourage everyone to wear a solid color from the same color family, for instance, a shade of blue.

Keep it simple. Choose simple garments that are consistent. Clothing is secondary and should not detract from the focus of the photograph: the people in it. Jeans or khakis and a white or black shirt are always a good choice.

Avoid patterns. Avoid large, bold patterns and bright colors that draw attention away from the face.

Dress from head to toe. Some of your portraits might be full length, so be sure that your shoes and socks are appropriate to your outfit.

Darker is better. Soft, natural make up is best but apply it a little darker like you were going out for the evening. Even in outdoor portraits, if your makeup is too light, your face may tend to look washed-out.

Timing is everything. Schedule your portrait session around your child’s naps and feedings, so that he can enjoy the experience. Try and arrive 10-15 minutes before your session. Use this time to relax and enjoy our studio before the camera starts clicking.

Make it personal. Bring along some personal props – maybe some hats, or toys that showcase your family’s personality. If your child has a special blanket or favorite doll, bring it along. Not only will it probably make them more comfortable, but it might just make for some sweet photos.

It’s all relative. If you chose to bring a pet, they should be fed, rested and well groomed before a photo shoot. You may even want to choose a collar or accessory that matches the color scheme of the rest of the family.

Keep them happy. For families with small children, bring along necessary items to help keep your child happy and clean, including diapers, wipes, drinks and snacks.

Relax. And finally, the best suggestion I can give is to relax, enjoy, and just be yourselves.

To give you some inspiration, check out this video of some of our favorite family portrait sessions. With every family portrait session we shoot, we create a custom slide show just like this one for your family!