WHAT TO WEAR?
One of the most common questions we get asked before a session is: what should I wear? It sounds like a small detail, but your outfit choice plays a bigger role than you might think in how your photos look and fee, and how much you enjoy the experience itself.
So before you raid your wardrobe in a panic, here's everything you need to know.
Keep it simple
The most beautiful lifestyle photos have one thing in common: the clothing disappears into the background, and the people take centre stage.
Neutral tones are where we always recommend starting. Whites, creams, soft greys, warm beiges and tans photograph beautifully in natural light and feel timeless in a way that trendy choices simply don't. You'll look back at these photos in ten years and love them just as much as the day they were taken.
Pastels are equally wonderful. Soft blush, sage green, pale blue, dusty lilac — these shades bring a gentle warmth to your images without pulling focus from the moments we're trying to capture.
What to leave at home
Bold prints, loud patterns and heavily branded clothing are the most common wardrobe choices that don't translate well on camera. A busy floral or a graphic tee will draw the eye straight to the fabric rather than to the faces and feelings in the frame. They also date a photo quickly, and lifestyle photography is all about creating images that feel as fresh and alive years from now as they do today.
Avoid going too matchy-matchy if you're coming in as a couple or a family. There's a difference between coordinated and costumed, and the former always looks more natural in photos.
Coordinating as a group
Choose a colour palette, not a matching outfit. Pick two or three tones from the neutral or pastel family and let each person interpret that within their own style and comfort.
Picture mum in a cream linen dress, dad in soft grey chinos with a white shirt, and the kids in dusty blue and warm beige. Everyone feels connected without looking like they planned it too carefully, and that ease shows beautifully in the final images.
Texture is your friend here too. Linen, knit, denim and cotton all sit together naturally and add a lovely depth to the frame without creating visual noise.
Fit over fashion
Whatever you choose to wear, make sure it fits well and feels like you. Clothes that are too tight, too loose or that you're constantly adjusting will show up in your body language, and cameras have a way of capturing exactly that.
Wear something you'd put on for a nice day out with the people you love. That comfort translates directly into the warmth and ease you'll see in your photos.
A few things worth knowing
Avoid pure white in very bright outdoor settings. Off-white or cream is a safer and often more flattering choice.
Layer where you can. A jacket or light throw that you can take on and off gives you more variety across your session without needing a full outfit change.
Bring a backup option. Even just an alternative top. It takes almost no space and gives you a little flexibility on the day.
Skip the brand new shoes. If they're not broken in, that discomfort will show on your face while you're walking around.
Still not sure? Just ask.
If you've booked a session with us and you're unsure about your outfit, send through a photo before the day. It's a quick and easy check that can save a lot of last-minute stress, and we're always happy to help.
Our goal is for you to feel relaxed, confident and completely yourself. When you feel that way, the magic takes care of itself.
