Reflections Media

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What kind of shoot would you like to do? Do you want relaxed, or more elaborate with props. Be realistic and practical when planning, and keep me posted!
Pick a location, or two, for your photos. Once you have that in mind, let me know! I love to scout ahead of time.
Remember, kids will be kids! They aren’t pros, so try to choose a time of day they would be well-rested and cooperative. And please remember, I have kids too, so don’t be embarrassed if they act out! I’ve seen it all!
Make sure everyone has eaten. No one is happy, or bright-eyed and bushy-tailed when they are hungry.
Dress for the weather. I can’t stress this enough. I do not want you uncomfortable for your shoot!
Relax, and have fun. Some of your best shots will come from when you aren’t posing.
And lastly, your wardrobe. It can be the biggest part of your photos, and likewise, a poorly planned wardrobe can ruin a good set of pics. Below are tons of tips to help you out. And if you have ANY questions, holler!

BOOKED... Now...what to wear!?

GENERAL CLOTHING TIPS

Put most of the family in different neutral shades (ivory, gray, beige) and then add a few pops of coordinating color.
Complement, don’t match.
Please avoid the "all white shirts and khaki pants" look. Use colors that generally complement each other: see color swatches below. If you want colorful images, then you should choose a more vivid color scheme for your outfits!
Generally, solids work best…Pops of pattern can definitely look great, but too many can be unappealing to the eye! To keep things from looking boring, include textures (think chunky knits, tulle, lace, etc). Avoid tiny prints, especially small plaid and small stripes.
Don’t forget about your shoes! Often, this is a last-minute element, but it shouldn’t be overlooked- they can really make or break your look! If you just can’t find shoes you love, consider going barefoot! (Just bring some slip-on shoes for walking around)
If you choose to accessorize, choose wisely! Don't pick jewelry that will become high maintenance or catch on clothing.

SAY YES TO:

GENERAL CLOTHING TIPS

Comfort. Above all, if you feel good, you will look good! Choose clothing that gives you freedom of movement, keeps you warm/cool, and won’t require a lot of maintenance throughout your session.
Texture. Add some visual interest to your images with unique fabrics: lace, cable knits, chambray, tweed, herringbone, faux fur, wool
Patterns. I know, I just said go solid…BUT, don’t be scared of patterns and prints! They can work great in moderation. Try one statement piece and then keep the rest of the family simpler. Large prints and patterns work best – avoid small plaid/stripes.
Layers and Accessories. These are the quickest way to take your outfits from average to amazing! Think scarves, blazers, cardigans, belts, jewelry, fun socks, and hats.
Fitted Clothing. We don’t want your clothing to be too baggy or too tight. Properly fitted clothing looks put together and will show your shape. For women, your upper half and lower half should be balanced: so for instance, blouse shirt + skinny pants, or tight shirt + flowing skirt.
Classic Choices. Try to steer away from current trends, they won't always be trending!

SAY NO TO:

GENERAL CLOTHING TIPS

SAY NO TO:

Bright White. If you love white, try off-white or ivory instead.
Dark Colors. Black and dark navy/brown/gray should all be avoided, since they tend to darken the overall feel of your photos, and often lose detail in shadowing.
Neon Colors. These create skin tone/color cast issues.
Very Saturated Colors. For example; bright red, bright yellow, etc. Instead, try more muted versions of the same color: replace bright red with dark red; replace bright yellow with mustard, etc.
Logos & Text. Words will draw attention away from your faces.
Transition Lenses. If you wear glasses every day, please wear them in your shoot! However, lens glare and shaded lenses will keep your eyes from being seen. You can have anti-reflective coating added to your lenses or wear just the frames.
Athletic shoes. Self-explanatory! Just don’t!
Short-sleeved T-shirts. Button-down or structured shirts with thicker material generally look better in photos. If you have a t-shirt you love, try layering a cardigan or blazer on top.
Tiny Plaid, Small Stripes, & Complicated Patterns. These don’t always translate well in-camera
Consider your surroundings. It is hard to get a good image of someone in a green shirt, sitting on green grass!

Need more help? Here ya go!

MOM

Say yes to:

· maxi & midi dresses

· fitted tops tucked into long skirts

· A-line dresses/coats

· skinny jeans

· tunic-length shirts, either fitted or flowing

· cardigan/blazer over fitted shirt

· scarves

· ankle boots

· riding boots

Say no to:

· very dark colors like black and dark navy

· strapless/sleeveless tops and dresses (unless you love your arms)

· heels (hard to play in – if you decide to wear them, stick to chunky heels or ankle boots)

· dresses above knee-length (hard to play with the kids and keep it pulled down)

· short shirts + low-cut jeans

· stripes and plaid

· low-cut shirts

· baggy clothes (fitted is generally more flattering)

· very chunky knits (they can make you look larger than you are)

· cheap/flimsy fabrics

· necklaces (hard to keep in place – earrings are a safer bet)

DAD

MOM

Say yes to:

· shirts designed to be worn untucked (it’s really hard to keep shirts tucked in when you’re playing with your kids)

· blazers

· button-downs with sleeves rolled up to elbows

· sweaters layered over collared shirts, especially if they’re textured (think chunky knits)

· slim-fit jeans

· leather shoes/boots, boat shoes, Converse & Vans

· cardigans

Say no to:

· short-sleeved polo (instead try short-sleeved button-downs)

· small prints like plaid and stripes – solids are a better choice

· formal button-down shirts – keep it more casual with untucked button-downs & relaxed fabrics

· excessively baggy shorts/pants

· athletic shoes

· white t-shirts and shirts

· undershirts that show

· phones/wallets in pockets

GIRLS

Say yes to:

everything listed for mom, plus these optional accessories: headbands, hats, bows, rain boots, tights

Say no to:

visible diaper/underwear (try shorts or bloomers under dresses), neon, athletic shoes or character shoes

BOYS

GIRLS

Say yes to:

everything listed for dad, plus these optional accessories: suspenders, bowtie, caps, high-top sneakers/Vans

Say no to:

tank tops, neon, shirts that have to stay tucked in (look for shirts designed to be worn untucked), visible diaper, athletic shoes or character shoes

Hey there!

Need some insight?

Let's get started...

BOOKED... Now...what to wear!?

GENERAL CLOTHING TIPS

GENERAL CLOTHING TIPS

GENERAL CLOTHING TIPS

SAY YES TO:

GENERAL CLOTHING TIPS

GENERAL CLOTHING TIPS

SAY NO TO:

GENERAL CLOTHING TIPS

SAY NO TO:

Color Swatches - Don't match, COORDINATE!

Need more help? Here ya go!

MOM

MOM

MOM

Say yes to:

Say no to:

DAD

MOM

MOM

Say yes to:

Say no to:

GIRLS

GIRLS

GIRLS

Say yes to:

Say no to:

BOYS

GIRLS

GIRLS

Say yes to:

Say no to:

Fun for the kiddos!