the style guide
Color Palettes
Click each color scheme and check out a Pinterest board.
You can get ideas from my Pinterest board for styling. The photos are direct links.
Warm Tones
Warm tones like rust, chocolate brown, camel, and cream create a cozy, earthy feel. Mix lighter neutrals with deeper shades to balance everyone's outfits without looking too coordinated. These colors are perfect for families who love a timeless, natural look, especially against golden fall landscapes.
Cool Tones
Soft blues, sage greens, grays, and creams create a fresh, airy feel. Mix muted colors with light neutrals to keep everyone's outfits looking cohesive. This palette is perfect for families who love a soft, delicate look that feels natural and effortless.
Pop of color
Don't be afraid to have a little fun with color! Start with one or two bold colors and balance them with softer neutrals like cream, denim, or brown. Instead of matching everyone's outfits, try repeating a few colors throughout. This look is perfect for families who want their photos to feel playful, colorful, and full of personality.
Jewel Tones
Rich colors like burgundy, emerald green, mustard, and deep teal add warmth and depth to family photos. Choose two or three jewel tones and mix in softer neutrals to keep the colors from competing with one another. This palette is perfect for families who love rich color and want their photos to feel vibrant without being too bold.
Monochrome
Monochrome doesn't mean everyone has to wear the exact same color! Choose one color family and mix different shades, from light to dark. Think ivory, cream, beige, and taupe, or different shades of blue and denim. Mixing textures like linen, cotton, and knits will keep everyone's outfits interesting. This look is perfect for families who love a clean, simple, and timeless feel.
Moody
Dark colors can look beautiful, especially in light, golden fields! Think charcoal, chocolate brown, olive green, navy, and black. Mix deeper shades with earthy neutrals and different textures to add dimension. This palette is perfect for families who love a more dramatic, earthy look and want to create a little contrast against a softer landscape.
Christmas
You don't have to wear red and green to create a festive look! Try mixing deep reds, forest greens, creams, browns, and cozy neutrals. A little plaid or a pop of red can add just the right amount of holiday cheer without everyone looking too coordinated. This palette is perfect for families who want that classic Christmas feel while keeping their photos timeless.
Patterns + Textures
Patterns and textures are a great way to add personality to your family's outfits! Start with one patterned piece, like a floral dress, striped shirt, or plaid jacket, and pull colors from it for everyone else's outfits. Mix in textures like denim, corduroy, linen, and chunky knits to add depth without making things too busy. This look is perfect for families who want their outfits to feel relaxed, thoughtfully put together, and a little more playful.
Styling Note:
A subtle print - small gingham, thin stripe, light plaid - mixed with solids tends to read better than an all-solid look. It keeps outfits from looking too flat against a background that already has a lot of texture: metal, wood, grass, and plants.
Style Advice
Think simple, classic, minimalist, or a little boho. Choose outfits that complement each other without being too matchy. Most importantly, wear something that feels like you and lets your family's personality shine!
Colors
Choose one of the suggested color palettes and build your family's outfits around two or three coordinating colors. Mix lighter and darker shades for balance, and don't be afraid to add a little color or pattern. You don't have to wear red and green to create beautiful holiday photos.
Adults / Teens
Think cozy knits, flowy dresses, denim, linen, and matching sets. Pair dresses with boots or clogs, or keep things casual with jeans and a textured sweater. Mixing different fabrics and shades is a great way to coordinate without wearing the same thing.
Kids
Think cute overalls, knit sweaters, rompers, dresses, and denim! A little plaid, gingham, or a fun patterned piece can add personality. Choose comfortable outfits that coordinate with your family's colors and allow your little ones to move and play.
Shoes
Boots, clogs, flats, and simple dress shoes all photograph beautifully. Stick to neutral colors that complement your outfits and avoid bright athletic shoes or distracting logos. Most importantly, choose something comfortable!
Accessories
Keep it simple with delicate jewelry, bows, hats, or a cute scarf. A little texture or a festive accessory can add personality without taking attention away from your family.
Makeup
I recommend looking like a polished version of yourself! Keep your makeup natural and comfortable, with soft neutrals and a little color if that's your style. The goal is to look and feel like you.
Hair
Soft waves, natural curls, or your favorite everyday hairstyle all work beautifully. Keep accessories simple with a cute bow, clip, or headband. For the little ones, choose something comfortable that will stay in place throughout the session.
And lastly…
Choose mom's outfit first — you'll feel your best, and you can wear it again later, unlike kids' clothes that they'll outgrow. OR choose someones outfit first. If something grabbed your attention that your kid or partner should wear and it’s hard to shop for them, let’s start with that color and work around it!
I know family photos can feel stressful — once you arrive, I'll direct you through the whole session, so just focus on getting everyone there. I do not mind tantrums or shyness or attitude. I’ll be silly and kind and try not to pressure anyone.
Try on all outfits the day before to check fit (Target, Old Navy, and Cotton On are great for last-minute finds).
For little ones in dresses, add shorts or bloomers underneath in case of sitting or being carried.
Don't stress if your kids don't cooperate right away — I've got it handled :)