Style Guide

The final outcome of the images I produce, is very much a combined effort between both my subjects and myself. How you choose to present yourself, be it what you wear, how your hair is styled, make-up application… it’s all a key factor in the outcome. I have come up with the ultimate guide which you can use to narrow down your outfit choices. I suggest starting with a colour palette and work from there.

I highly recommend that my clients lay everything out on a bed together as this is the easiest way to see if something isn't coordinating. Feel free to text or email me photos of the outfits laid out. That's what I'm here for... it's all part of the service.

Selecting Your Colours

When choosing colours for your outfits, I recommend selecting softer, lighter tones and more muted shades. By avoiding ultra-bright, bold colours, it will help bring all the attention to your faces and let the eye focus on the way you feel about each other. The camera loves soft pastel colours mixed with light neutrals like heather grey, creams, browns and white. That softer colour palette fits beautifully into almost all natural outdoor environments.

Summer | Spring

Want your photos to look more editorial? Bring a little extra something with you! Fresh flowers bring and extra "wow" factor to just about everything. Feel free to incorporate things like blankets or hats because even planning for just one extra styled item could be a fun way to make your session more unique.

Autumn | Winter

If you'd like to see even more visual examples than what I have put together here, I also have a "styling inspiration" Pinterest Board, filled to the brim with ideas for you.

STYLE TIPS FOR HER

BECAUSE WE ALWAYS WANT TO LOOK OUR BEST

Flowy is Fabulous: Long, flowy maxi dresses are not only flattering but also practical. They photograph beautifully and allow for movement, plus they’re perfect for moments when you’ll be crouching down with your little ones—keeping you comfortable and covered.

Sleeves are Your Best Friend: Dresses or tops with sleeves are incredibly forgiving and allow for more freedom of movement, which is especially handy when wrangling busy kids. They also add a polished look to your outfit.

Skip the Spray Tan: Spray tans may seem like a great idea, but they often photograph orange, especially in natural light. Embrace your natural glow for a more timeless and authentic look.

Choose Soft, Muted Tones: Whites, Pastels, creams, soft blues, blush, and other neutral tones complement my light and bright style beautifully. Avoid black, bold patterns or neon colors, as they can distract from the overall look.

Limit Floral Prints: Dainty florals are gorgeous, but have just one person in your group wear a floral piece to avoid competing patterns. Use the individual colours from the floral outfit to coordinate the rest of the family’s outfits.

Textures: Incorporate subtle textures like lace, embroidery, or chiffon for added visual interest without being overpowering.

Accessorise: Simple jewellery or a wide-brim hat can elevate your look. Avoid anything too chunky or distracting. I will ask you to remove black faced sports watches.

Think Head to Toe: Pay attention to shoes! Opt for lighter colors like tan, beige, or soft taupe to keep the look cohesive. Avoid black or overly sporty footwear.


STYLE TIPS FOR HIM

BECAUSE DAPPER AND DEBONAIR NEVER GO OUT OF STYLE

Neutrals Work Best: Stick to neutral tones like beige, light grey, soft blues, or olive greens. These pair well with the pastel palette.

Say No to Logos: Avoid clothing with large logos, graphics, or busy patterns. A classic, simple, timeless look photographs best.

Focus on Fit: Well-fitted clothing is key. Avoid overly baggy or tight pieces, as they can look unflattering in photos.

Accessories: I will ask you to remove black faced sports watches. If you would like to wear a watch, I highly recommend selecting something a little bit more classic.

Layer Thoughtfully: A button-down shirt layered over a plain tee or a lightweight sweater adds depth and texture without feeling too formal. If it's too hot, just wear a long sleeved button up shirt with the sleeves rolled up for a more casual look. A simple, plain T-shirt also works well, however, avoid older T-shirts, as they often have a stretched or worn-out appearance that can detract from the polished feel of the photos.

Shoes Matter: Light-colored shoes like tan loafers, sneakers, or desert boots work well. Avoid clunky black shoes or anything overly casual like flip-flops.


CO-ORDINATING THE CREW

BECAUSE EVERY PIECE PLAYS A PART IN THE BIGGER PICTURE

Keep It Cohesive: Choose a complementary palette for the family rather than matching outfits. The days of everyone in a white shirt and blue jeans are long gone! I recommend that you avoid thinking about "matching" and instead think about what "fits" together.

Simple Layers for Kids: For little ones, think cardigans and suspenders. Avoid party dresses with lots of tulle and tops with sparkles. Just keep it simple for that timeless look.

Comfort is Key: Ensure everyone’s outfits are comfortable, especially for children, to keep the session stress-free.

Avoid Matching Exactly: With multiple children, don't feel like you need to put them all in the same type of outfit. For example, one of your daughters could wear a dress and flats, while the other wears a skirt and boots. One of your sons could wear shorts, while the other one wears long pants and suspenders. Mixing up the wardrobe pieces will bring great visual interest to the photos.

Details Matter: Shoes should align with the overall aesthetic—no bright sneakers or clunky black shoes. Light-colored shoes are a must for everyone, or no shoes at all if we're shooting on sand.

"I know that all of this is a lot to think about. I created this guide to help make your family session experience something you'll look back on fondly for years and years to come, but, at the end of the day the outfits you select won't matter nearly as much as the memories you make together.

Your memories are important thing to me, and I want your session to be a time for you to just be yourselves and enjoy it! Have fun together, laugh a lot and I'll take care of the rest!"

—Sarah