Last week we had our family photos taken for our annual Christmas card. Our photos will be back to us soon but in the meantime, I wanted to share our photo outfits with you.
Over the years we've played with different styles, some more formal and some less. These days, we're feeling pretty casual, as necessitated by life with two young kids. I also love the idea of coordinating all the time but alas, when Elia picks her own outfits and Wells spits up on his and Todd and I throw on whatever is clean and readily available, coordination is not our strongest game. Family pictures gives us a chance to step out of that and do something a little more thoughtful.
This year, I wanted to go with more looks with more traditional colors that weren't a huge departure from our everyday style but still a little special. Our looks are pictured below and you can see them in the sidebar photo as well - a special sneak peek.
Over the years we've played with different styles, some more formal and some less. These days, we're feeling pretty casual, as necessitated by life with two young kids. I also love the idea of coordinating all the time but alas, when Elia picks her own outfits and Wells spits up on his and Todd and I throw on whatever is clean and readily available, coordination is not our strongest game. Family pictures gives us a chance to step out of that and do something a little more thoughtful.
This year, I wanted to go with more looks with more traditional colors that weren't a huge departure from our everyday style but still a little special. Our looks are pictured below and you can see them in the sidebar photo as well - a special sneak peek.
My best tips for picking photo shoot outfits are:
1. Choose clothes you're comfortable in.
This should be twofold - clothes that you feel confident in and also physically comfortable. Photo shoots can feel a little awkward anyway and you don't want to be thinking about how your pants are too tight or how you don't quite feel like yourself while you're trying to get your whole family to smile at the same time.
2. Shop your closet first.
It's fun to buy new outfits for a photo shoot but it can also add up quickly. Always start with what you already have, pull pieces you love, and go from there. You may recognize the red dress above from this post. I loved this dress so much last year that when I saw this tried and true dress for resale on Kidizen in Elia's current size, I ordered it immediately. Shopping your closet first will also go a long way in helping your family look and feel like yourselves.
3. Pick a color theme and stick with it.
While coordinating is good, there's always a danger of being too matchy matchy. You can incorporate different textures, patterns, and shades of the colors you choose to create visual interest. A healthy dose of neutrals always helps too.
For more family photo outfit planning tips, click the blog links for guides from two of my favorite bloggers, Jones Design Company and Oh Joy!.
And for a good laugh, scroll through this set of ensembles you should definitely not wear for your holiday photos.
I look forward to receiving Christmas cards from our friends and family every year and can't wait to see what show up in our mailbox. It's so fun to hear from everyone and see how much their families have grown, plus everyone always look smashing in them.
It's hard to believe that the holidays are beginning next week but, I for one, can't wait!
Do you send a Christmas or holiday card every year?
What are your tips for picking the perfect photo looks?
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