As a Morro Bay photographer, I often get asked “What should I wear for our family photos?” The answer to that question depends on several variables.

First thing to consider is the location of your Morro Bay photography session. Each location is so different and your outfit should definitely compliment the location you choose. The location should guide the wardrobe choices, and ideally the location is selected before the outfits. A photography session at the beach is perfect for neutral, romantic attire, whereas bold colors are wonderful on a cloudy fall day. Think about how the environment will complement the outfit choices to ensure a cohesive feel. 

2. Coordinate your colors, but don’t match

The second thing to consider when choosing your outfit for a session with your Morro Bay photographer is the other people that will be in the pictures with you. Whether you are taking photos with your spouse, children or extended family, it’s always a good idea to discuss and plan the outfits that everyone will wear. Complementary solid colors are best. Use similar color families to keep the outfits cohesive. Pick a color family rather than one single color. For example, if the whole family chooses to wear pastel, make sure everyone has a different pastel color. You don’t want everyone in white or in beige. You want each person to stand out in their own unique beautiful way, while at the same time looking cohesive with the whole family.

3. Be comfortable

You may find the cutest outfit but if it is uncomfortable, you will regret it. If you do not like fitted clothing then leave it at home! If you have kids, you will most likely bend down, lift them up, or hold a baby during the session. It’s important to be comfortable and look as natural as possible.

4. Shoes are important

Shoes matter. Overlooking the shoes is a big mistake that I notice time and again. Remember shoes play an important part in an outfit, and sometimes no shoes at all is the best choice. Footwear should be dependent on the environment, season, and type of session. I recommend simple, comfortable and something that won’t distract from the outfit choice. For beach sessions, you can always start off with shoes and then take them off.

5. Avoid trendy clothing

Go for a classic look that will stand the test of time. Ditch the extremely date-able trends and stick to classic shapes like flowy dresses, straight-leg pants, and button-front shirts. Keep in mind that timeless doesn’t need to be boring.  Pay attention to accessories and make a conscious decision on what to keep and what to remove. A few years ago, I wore a Fitbit everyday. On the day of our family session with our Morro Bay photographer, I forgot to take the Fitbit off. You can clearly see it in the pictures and it looks bulky and big.

Morro Bay Photographer

If you need more inspiration on what to wear for a session with your Morro Bay photographer, I’ve created a Pinterest board that you will find helpful. If you are interested in booking a session with me, check out more of my website! Once you book a session, I will send you a detailed Style Guide that will prepare you for your session. The Style Guide helps you with wardrobe styling, hair, makeup, locations, times and so much more information.

This month I have also joined a wonderful group of photographers for a blog circle. I want to introduce you to Michele Quattrin who is a Family Photographer in Minneapolis. Michele wrote a blog post describing the difference between mini and full portrait sessions. Please make sure to check out her blog. It has a lot of great information.