The hottest topic from my family clients is – “what do I wear?!” I get it. I have the same panicking question when I schedule our family photos, texting our photographer to get her opinion. Now that I have a family and have experienced a few last minute outfits that I wasn’t crazy about but also had some super cute ones that made me love our pictures that much more, I’m here to share what I’ve learned as not only your photographer, but a fellow mom.

The color palette is the easiest way to help you find outfits that compliment each other. While there’s some super cute palettes on Pinterest and sometimes that’s a great place to start, I’ve found the most effective way is to go shopping for yourself (or maybe for 1 of the girls in your family since boys clothes are more versatile) and shop what’s in season and what you feel good in. The problem with the color palettes on Pinterest is that the colors aren’t always in season! The alternate way to pick your palette is picking a statement color and finding outfits to compliment the color. Pops of color are so fun and will make your photos unique.

Using patterns, not confusing them.

I mentioned using a color palette which is a great place to start and patterns can be a great place to find those colors! Choose a pattern and use those colors from that pattern to create your color palette. I’ve found that your photos look so much more fun and appealing when some pattern is incorporated! Of course, you have to be intentional so you don’t clash but below are some great examples of a fun mixup of patterns. That’s why starting with a pattern, pulling a color palette and then picking items that match that palette is a great game plan.

Ever worn a plain t-shirt and thrown a chunky necklace or scarf on top, paired with some cute booties or heels? It’s amazing how much impact the right accessories can add to your outfit! Wear that same t-shirt with jeans and flip-flops and you have a completely different, casual look that might be great for the beach. Sweaters, necklaces, earrings, shoes, scarves, and/or belts can create more dimension and interest to your outfits. It’s also a great way to show your sense of style!

You heard me and it’s so worth it. Take a break from the midnight scrolling of the perfect dress (been there) and go get a pedicure. Well, not at midnight…you know what I mean. Call my girl, Beauty by Cherise and get your hair and makeup scheduled. You won’t regret it. If you’re on a budget and need to do your makeup yourself, add the lashes, do the eyeliner, the bronzer. Do the extra’s that you would do for a nice date night because it will look so much better in photos. Maybe your extra IS mascara, that’s okay too! Do it! Just add blush ;) You still want to look like you.

I’ve created a Pinterest board that I add to every so often of my favorite family “looks”, you can see it here: check out my Pinterest board for inspo!