Welcome to Your Prep Guide
This guide is here to help you prepare for your family photo shoot. It includes suggestions to make selecting everyone’s wardrobe easier. Plus other important details (such as ironing clothing and taking care of your skin and nails) to insure a success.
It is very important to me that I capture your family at their very best...
Let the fun begin!
When it comes to planning wardrobe for your family shoot keep it light, keep it fun! I know how easy it is to derail when it comes to deciding what to wear. Give the members of your family a sense of control in selecting what they would like to wear. You can retain some say by giving them a few items to choose from. Also, inviting them to look for inspo can be a fun way for them to visualize.
Some Do’s and Dont’s
Do bring multiple outfits. A photoshoot is a process & variety is key. Clothing can reveal different aspects of personality in people. This is why I like to suggest 2-3 outfit changes or looks. I find it typically works well to start out in casual clothes and work your way up to a more dressed up/formal look. We will also do a deep dive during your creative consult to get you started on a solid path to selecting the appropriate wardrobe. Below is a standard recommendation to build from.
-If you need any help with shopping, I am here to help. Just ask!
Colour, Style & Other Details
Colour, Patterns & Texture
Wardrobe Tips for Moms & Daughters:
The most important thing? Choose pieces that make you feel comfortable, confident, and beautiful—not squeezed or self-conscious. You’re going to shine.
For Moms:
Depending on your personal style, have a look below for inspo that calls to you:
Flowy dresses, jumpsuits, or soft knits in neutral or earthy tones (cream, taupe, olive, blush, dusty blue) photograph beautifully. Think movement and softness, not clingy or overly structured.
A few fit tips:
Avoid overly tight clothing—opt for silhouettes that skim, not squeeze.
Dresses with a cinched waist, wrap styles, or empire lines are especially flattering.
Sleeves (short, flutter, or ¾-length) often feel more comfortable in photos than sleeveless.
Layers like a shawl, duster, or jacket add dimension and ease.
Subtle accessories (necklaces, bracelets, earrings) are great—just nothing too bold or distracting. Most importantly, try your outfit on beforehand and move around in it—sit, walk, twirl. Make sure it feels like you, only elevated.
For Daughters:
Soft, playful, and comfy is the goal. Consider dresses, rompers, or leggings with a flowy top in neutral or muted tones. Textures like lace, linen, or knit look lovely. Skip distracting logos or graphics.
Let them twirl, explore, and have fun—bare feet or soft shoes are perfect for little ones.
The vibe: natural, connected, and radiant. I want you to feel as beautiful as you truly are.
Style & Shape
Wardrobe Tips for Men & Boys:
For timeless, flattering photos, opt for neutral or earthy tones—think soft blues, creams, grays, olive, or tan.
Avoid busy patterns, logos, or neon colors.
For Men:
Choose a button-down, henley, or simple knit sweater paired with well-fitted jeans or chinos. Layering with a jacket or vest adds texture and depth.
For Boys:
Coordinate rather than match. A soft collared shirt, pullover sweater, or even a plain tee under suspenders works beautifully. Keep it comfortable—shoes they can move in, clothes that feel good.
The goal: relaxed, classic, and a little polished—without looking stiff or overdone.
You Don’t Have to Match!
Bringing in Colour Variation
As a group, staying within similar, neutral tones photographs beautifully. Avoid large bold patterns.
Texture is amazing & one of the best ways to add interest.
To differentiate mom & dad from the children, you can have them be in their own ‘colour group’ ie: mom & dad are wearing grey tones & children are wearing navy or visa versa.
Whatever makes the final cut. Be sure to remove wrinkles -they show up in photos. The old fashioned iron is your friend.
Plan to Bring Accessories
Your family pet ~woof!
Sentimental items
ie: Heirloom watch
(One client brought a jar of washers because she & her children collected them on their walks.)
Hat(s)
Belt(s)
Scarves
Jewelery such as necklaces, bracelets, earrings, rings.
Cool shoes
We Can all Use a Little Polish. I like to touch on this subject because it is something that can make a massive difference not only in your images, but how you ‘feel’. Don’t do anything drastic too close to your shoot. Maybe don’t do anything drastic at all.
Grooming Tips for the Whole Family
A little preparation goes a long way toward helping everyone feel their best in front of the camera.
For Everyone:
Hydrate and get a good night’s sleep if possible—the glow is real.
Avoid last-minute sunburns or spray tans—natural skin tones photograph best.
Hands show up more than you think: clean, moisturized, and trimmed nails look polished (nail polish is optional but keep it tidy).
Avoid heavy SPF or oily products on the face—they can cause unwanted shine in photos.
For Men & Boys:
Fresh haircuts are great—just don’t get them the day before (aim for 4–5 days prior).
Beard? Trim and shape it. Clean-shaven? Shave the morning of.
Lips get chapped! A swipe of balm helps.
Brush hair neatly, especially for little ones.
For Women & Girls:
Hair can be styled naturally or glam—whatever feels true to you. Soft waves, braids, or loose buns all work beautifully.
Haircuts can make us feel amazing! Give yourself a minimum of one week prior to your shoot.
Makeup should enhance, not hide—aim for a polished everyday look. Powder can help with shine, and lashes define the eyes beautifully (natural or faux).
Lip balm leading up to your shoot and day of shoot.
Lip colour for mom: Stay within subtle tones. Semi mat works well.
If doing nails, keep the look clean and simple—neutrals or classic colors photograph best.
Final tip: Bring a small touch-up kit—lip balm, a hairbrush, tissues, and maybe a personal snack (especially for kids). Most of all, come ready to relax and enjoy the experience. The best photos come from feeling good, not just looking good.
I can’t wait to work with you!