family photo shoot

Dressing a family for a photo shoot can be a nightmare. Scratch that, dressing my family can be a nightmare, I try not to generalize. Even for me, who loves to plan outfits for people. Fortunately, there is comfort in numbers as I’ve noticed many of my parent peeps have the same issue. So I was inspired to write this post to address the madness that can be family picture day. Here’s my unsolicited advice, as a stylist and a mom. Rule #1-be comfortable! If you put yourself or your kids in something that’s not you, or them, just because you think it will look great in a photo you’re going to ruin your photo. Because if you don’t FEEL good, you won’t LOOK good. Rule #2-keep the kiddos happy. If your daughter wants to wear her favorite pink dress (above) let her. Even if it’s supposed to be a “holiday” photo and it’s freezing at the beach and your mom really wants you to put on the cute jeans she just bought you, ahhh I digress. At least you’ll have that memory captured, “Awww I remember that dress, you hardly ever took it off.” I tend to stick with neutrals in our family pics with a pop of color here and there, sometimes unexpectedly. Again, above. But here are a few more combos that may inspire you on how to coordinate the fam so they’re all cohesive. Remember, deep breaths-it may be the most stressful day of the year, but it’s just one day. And it usually falls around cocktail hour, so don’t forget to properly celebrate once it’s over and say cheese!

Photo of by Michelle Warren

Pattern by Leanne Shapton

Modern Family, one of the best family portraits ever from one of the best episodes ever-“Family Portrait”.