So you've scheduled your portrait photography session. Great! Now it's time for everyone's favorite past time- deciding what to wear! ::eye roll::

Colors. Usually when I'm asked by a client what they should wear to their photo shoot, they are focused on color. And with good reason! Choosing wardrobe colors for multiple people can be stressful, so simplify the process by limiting your group to three or four colors. I would recommend two neutrals and a statement color "pop". (Unless you're into all neutrals, which if you took one look inside my closet you would know I understand SO well.) Traditionalists will tell you to stick with two colors, but this tends to bring you into "matchy-matchy" territory. How many totally unique looks can a larger group come up with when they are limited to two colors? Not many. Long gone are the days of everyone in a white shirt and jeans, it just looks dated and too uniform. I'd say this rule goes for matching your children too. How many of us have looked back on childhood photos where we are wearing the same smocked front dress as our sibling and thought WHY?!?! (Is it just me? It can't just be me.) Instead, try choosing complimentary colors that flatter each other and create a cohesive look. Totally lost? Pinterest has millions of color palettes available for you to scroll through, just make sure not to get too far down the rabbit hole!

Location. Where you've decided to have your portrait session can be a huge factor in choosing your color palette and clothing options. Say you're having a family photography session out on Sullivan's Island. The muted tones of a beach front photo shoot mean you can play up your color "pop's" a bit more. Think saturated bolder tones, to really make you stand out amidst the sand and sky. But perhaps you've opted for family photos downtown on Rainbow Row, or at one of Charleston's many beautiful gardens. Because of the vibrancy in your backdrop, you might want to consider a palette of neutrals or more muted color choices. Also, consider your location when choosing the dressiness and functionality of your wardrobe. A beautiful cocktail dress and heels can look amazing for a sophisticated downtown Charleston interior, but you'll be struggling through the dunes out on Isle of Palms in your stilettos.

Season. This is especially important when planning a family photo shoot with little ones. Adults may be able to fake it but when kiddos are too cold or too hot they will let you know! It may be tempting to throw on wool sweaters and scarves for your Christmas Card Photos, but if your photo session is in South Carolina in September, it might be best to just embrace the southern holiday look. 'Tis the season!

Style. Disclaimer: if you are a fashion addict, then do you! But if you're reading this, chances are you often find yourself diving head first into your closet and still coming up empty. My recommendation (and the rule I try and follow in my own wardrobe) is to stick with classic pieces. Trends tend to date your photos, and if you're taking the time (and spending the $) to have your photos taken professionally, you probably want these pictured to last. So simple silhouettes and classic cuts are generally best.

And there you have it, just a few basic tips on choosing your family photo outfits!

xoxo,