What should I wear?

This is probably the most common question we get asked.  It is also one of the most important when it comes to your family portrait.  The right clothing option will give a harmony to your image while the wrong clothing can cause your portrait to look disorganized.

The first step is to decide whether you want something more traditional or casual.  Traditional portraits are usually more formal so darker dress clothes are preferable.  Casual portraits allow for more flexibility but can be harder to coordinate.  When going for a casual look, jeans or khakis will work as long as everyone agrees to one or the other.

While everyone doesn't have to be in the same color, it is preferable that everyone wear something from a similar color palette.  (Ex: all in light colors or all in dark tones)  Also try to avoid big bold stripes or patterns because they can be very distracting.  Keep in mind that dark colors tend to recede in an image and light colors stand out more.  If a large group is all wearing darker tones and one person is in a light shirt, that person will stand out immediately.

The most important part of the portrait is the people in it.  Following these few suggestions ensures that your portrait will focus on the beautiful faces of your family, instead of the shirt they decided to wear that day.

Here are some examples of formal and casual family portraits and the great clothing choices they decided on: