I'm really glad
It’s almost that time, folks! Spring is on its way!
One of my favorite things to talk about for photo sessions? Wardrobe! Heck. Yes. Besides the actual session itself, this is the part I get really excited for! The Spring season is the perfect time to break out the flowy skirts, soft blush colors, contrasting colors, pops of pink…ahh! All of my favorite things. The combinations are literally endless and so fun to create!
Sakura blossoms, or cherry blossoms, range from shades of white and pink, creating a beautiful cascade of colors. It is literally a photographers dream backdrop. Using inspiration from these flowers and the soft, earthy tones of Spring, we can create a wardrobe that is not only stunning for your photos, but versatile for you to wear through the season.
Before we get around to selecting outfits, we gotta get a few things straight. Whatever you wear should make you feel like a MILLION bucks. Right down to the tips of your toes. If you are uncomfortable in any way, that’ll make your experience less than amazing. You simply will not feel as great as you want to feel. I promise. As the girl who once wore stilettos and uncomfortable shoes on the reg, I can tell you from experience it is important to feel your best while being photographed!
Okay folks! Let’s get down to business!
The key to all of this is pretty simple. You want to establish is who in your group will have the “base” outfit first. What I mean by that is, we need to create one ensemble for all of the others to coordinate with. Most of the time when I’m creating looks for my own family photos, I choose my outfit first, and then help Joe select his. We both really love to shop and love dressing up for photos, so this part is super fun for us. If it’s not your partners thing (or your thing) no sweat. Just choose one outfit that will anchor everyone else. Typically this is based on color and the style of clothing you are wearing (casual, dressy, or a mix of both).
For example, if you love a beautiful flowing skirt like Hannah’s below, you can choose colors for the rest of your family that contrast or compliment the color. Hannah’s husband has a nice neutral sweater that doesn’t compete with her mustard skirt. Together, the combination looks crisp and classy. True story: I have photographed this skirt not one, not two, but THREE times in different colors! It is MAGIC, guys! It moves and flows just right making twirling photos a possibility. One the best parts about this skirt is that it is available on Amazon! Win! Also, notice Hannah’s bold lip. This is a PERFECT pair with their outfit choices. Neutral outfits can be paired with a pop of color with makeup and it looks fabulous.
Another one of my favorite looks not only for spring, but year round, is a classic custom tailored jacket and/or suit. Kelly pulled off this look and it complimented Katie’s Pink Blush dress perfectly. This kind of look not only emulates a timeless and classic vibe, but gives the entire session a put together feel. In this look, we have a beautiful contrast of a darker suit and a lighter dress that moves perfectly as they walk. Noticing a trend here? Dresses and skirts that move are so romantic to photograph! Pink Blush sells maternity and women’s clothing making this a really versatile option to shop.
For Andrea’s session, her outfit served as the anchor. The floral details on each of the kiddo’s dresses matched with Andrea. Their adorable bows also complimented her outfit, and were the perfect accessory. Andrea actually makes them in her shop, Two Sisters Bow Co, and I can tell you for experience, her bows are stunning! The girls also wore these dresses on Easter! In my book, it’s important to choose items that can be reworn (even with growing littles) more than once.
One of my favorite parts of Brandee’s session with her boys, was one another mom stopped us and said, “MAMA! YOU LOOK GOOD!” She totally did! Brandee had all the boys match her crisp blue collared shirt, and she chose to wear a contrasting color that brought a nice pop. Ya’ll know how I love this color in any season! It photographs so beautifully! This is a great example of how everyone in your group can match, without being over the top matching.
The Dugger fam hit their outfits out of the park for Julie’s maternity session. Notice how her purple dress draws in all of the colors and textures everyone else is wearing (and that shoulder is to die for). All of these tones pull together to create a cohesive look that has a very clean result. A dark color charcoal pant is always a great idea for dads. Why? Because sometimes during the session, littles get lifted and can have dirty shoes. A darker pant will help disguise any stains! 
Quick tips on what to avoid for your photo session:
- Overly busy patterns. I’m a huge fan of prints, but for Sakura blossoms, you want to avoid anything that will detract from the soft florals. Stick with softer patterns for this one!
- Neon colors. As a general rule of thumb, I tell my clients to avoid highlighter colors for clothing choices. The color cast (the shadow of color) that falls back on to your face is really difficult to edit out. Hot orange, hot pink, neon green, etc., should be avoided.
- Uncomfortable shoes. You’re gonna be on your feet, my friends! Ditch the uncomfortable shoes.
- Large logos or large graphic prints. These can be distracting and we want to keep the focus on your wonderful family and our beautiful surroundings.
- A frown. Okay, this might seem super duper cheesy, but I’m telling the truth, y’all. Our sessions are genuinely fun. You know I’m not gonna make you stand there and grin and bear it. No. Way. We’re way cooler than that at KSP! We’re going to interact. I’m going to have to hang with your family in a laid back and goofy way that doesn’t feel stiff or overly posed. The best thing you can show up with is a good attitude that is ready to make some epic memories!
Still stuck on what to wear? There’s someone I want to you meet!
Martine Leveillee of Martine A La Mode. Martine is a MASTER at wardrobe styling. Not only has she styled MY closet, she has styled Joe’s closet too! She can create multiple looks for you with just a few pieces. This is a service I highly recommend taking advantage of for your photos. What I absolutely LOVE about her services is that she focuses on what is already IN your closet to make a beautiful look that is photo ready in no time.
Questions? Ready to share your looks for your session? Let’s connect! Drop me a line at hello@katespitzphotography.com. I can’t wait to see what you come up with!
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