As I sit here rocking WJ, I was thinking about what we would wear for our family pictures this year. This is us last year, and I really like how we pulled it off at the last minute with a couple of stops at WalMart, Missy's Boutique and TJ Max. Maybe we won't put it off until it's 23 degrees this year!  Everyone is gearing up for Fall colors and Christmas cards and thinking "What should we wear?". There is always a fear of being too matchy or not matchy enough. What will photograph well, and what won't? Trust me when I say choosing what to wear for fall family pictures can turn something that should be fun into a source of stress. I don't know about you, but I don't have a place in my life for stress! Here are some of my go-to tips for choosing your family's fall outfits for fall pictures.

1. Being matchy-matchy is out.

Gone are the days of all white shirts and jeans. Choose a color pallet and run with it. I often tell people to find one outfit you are dying to have photographed that has a few colors in it, and pull from it. It will help to have a starting point rather than trying to decide on something for everyone all at once. Some fun colors for fall pictures are navy, gold, maroon, brown, purple or cream. Adding a pop of color to your outfits here and there can also add a nice touch to your pictures.

2. Create texture in your images by adding layers and patterns.

One of my favorite things about fall pictures is the accessories that can be added to outfits. Adding simple things like scarves, hats, jackets, cardigans, ponchos, vests, jewelry or even boots can create more dimension and texture to your images and make them more interesting. Adding patterns to some of your clothes helps with this too. Don't be afraid of patterns. they will also add more dimension and personality to your images. What's more fun than plaid in fall?? If you're nervous, you can always find a scarf that adds a little plaid to your session. I found an adorable one at WalMart the other day that I've been kicking myself for not buying! Maybe it'll still be there when I get back to it. Just remember to go easy on the patterns. You just want pops of patterns, not a whole mish-mash.

3. Pay attention to comfort or clothing that will need to be adjusted often.

I can't tell you how many times I have had sessions with children, or parents who are chasing their own children, and they have spent more time readjusting collars, sleeves, shoes, etc. than they have enjoying their time in the limelight! I'm all for a cute outfit, but make sure the outfit fits correctly, and isn't gong to obstruct the face. If you fall in love with a puffy vest, try it out and make sure the collar isn't going to cover faces. There is also something to be said for the comfort of the outfit. Children are easily distracted. If they are uncomfortable, you will likely spend more time convincing them to stop messing with their outfits than you care to do. The same holds true for adults. Feeling comfortable and confident in your clothes doesn't mean you have to sacrifice style!

I hope these tips help you to choose some really fun outfits for your family's photo session! If you have any doubts or questions, send me pictures or give me a call. I'd love to help you out!