Coordinating Outfits Stressin' You Out? Let Me Help!

Guten tag Humbletakes Fam!

How are you guys?

I find that one of the things that my clients stress out about the most (second to the weather here in unpredictable Colorado) is how to dress their families!

The thought of trying to achieve a perfect photo shoot can be overwhelming. But luckily for you, you have an expert in your pocket! I can help you figure out how to coordinate your family’s outfits without all the stress and hassle. Here are my top 5 tips for getting the exact balance of cohesion and individuality in your session.

Matching but not too matching

This is a hard balance to strike so I have added a few pictures of my clients that I feel struck it perfectly.

I love mostly neutrals and a hint of color. Using neutrals is helpful because usually all the members of your family already have an article of clothing in that color so you don't have to spend a fortune on a new wardrobe!

I love a splash of color but nothing too distracting.

Don't be afraid to accessorize

A chunky necklace, big scarf, or fun tie can be the perfect additions to any family photo shoot. Stay in your color scheme and you will be amazed at how using accessories can make your session hip and fun.

Both of these sessions were done in the fall/winter months and I LOVE the chunky necklace and the scarves (and those suspenders...get outta town!). They add color, texture, fun and warmth!

Patterns can be perfect, if used carefully

Patterns can be a very scary commitment for a family session. I understand. You have to be careful with strong graphic prints, but they can add a lot of personality to your family pictures.

With that being said...don't go crazy. Keep your pattern prints to a tasteful minimum and use them as an accent not a foundation.

The beautiful floral pattern of her dress brings brightness and color to their color scheme. The grey and white polka-dot is more understated but still adds interest and personality to this sassy girls pictures!

Keep your location in mind  

This is something that is very important but gets overlooked. If you are shooting in the middle of a wheat field your options for colors and patterns are much more open than if you choose to shoot in front of a bright wall or a building covered in graffiti.

If your location has a ton of personality then I recommend using mellow colors, skip the strong patterned prints, and go easy on the accessories.

Keeping your location in mind will help you narrow down your clothing options.

The black and pink are perfect for this nature setting. They are fun and bright and draw your attention. On the other hand, it was smart to keep the colors to a minimum when shooting in front of this awesome (and colorful) graffiti.

Finally, have fun with it!

Don't overthink it! There are millions of ways to make your photo session exude the personality of your family. While I do think it's important to consider your clothing choices I definitely do not think it's the most important aspect of a family photo session. Come and have a great time and you will love your family pictures regardless of what your mob is wearing!

What are some of your favorite accessories to make your photo session unique and personalized?!

Shoot ya Later :)

3 Easy Ways to Have a Flawless Photo Shoot

Hey Humbletakes Fam,

What's up, my clan?! Are you guys loving this Spring weather? The landscape is becoming a prettier and prettier backdrop for my April Mini-Mini Sessions! Book yours now (dates and links below)!

April 9th: BOOK HERE

April 22nd: BOOK HERE

May dates coming soon!

I can not EVEN count the number of times I've heard the following phrases:

"I HATE having my picture taken"

"I'm not photogenic"

"I hate pictures of myself"

Well. I am not havin' alla that....mostly because it's bullsh$t. I hate that I have to been so direct with y'all but sometimes mama just has to pull out the big girl words. You guys, how many people really love having their picture taken? I mean, except for, like, the Kardashians...and teenage girls? But let's be real. We're all a little self conscious about SOMETHING. Our eyes are too small, ears to big, nose protrudes too much, chin doesn't protrude enough, my love handles show I'm reeeeaaallly loved, my arms jiggle, my hair doesn't fall right...and on and on and on. Me, for example..I have a double chin that just won't quit.

There are super simple, almost microscopic, changes that can make a huge difference in pictures. Here are the three tips that I use whenever I have my picture taken (headshots, family pictures, selfies, snapshots at family events...whenever)!

Posture

Posture is everything. Anyone I photograph will hear, "stand up nice and tall...not like you're in the military, but shoulders back and down, belly tight, chin up a tad". I have said that sentence almost verbatim over 13,205 times. I counted. Fine, I didn't really count but you get my drift.

Check out this family. Everyone is standing tall yet comfortable. Picture perfect!

Lifting your chin (in moderation)

When people smile they have a tendency to lower their chin. Doing this puts the features of your face out of proportion. Forehead looks bigger, chin looks smaller and often it gives some semblance of a double chin. It's just not good.

Lifting up your chin very slightly can make your face look thinner and is more flattering. It's like the fastest weight loss plan ever. Don't get crazy lifting your chin to the sky can make you look like a crazy person searching for UFO's.

This is my favorite tip because it's so minor and people don't feel awkward with this tiny pose "correction".

Here's yours truly at my branding photo shoot. The difference in my face is so obvious but my change is posture was so slight.

Dress for your body

Wear something that you feel like a million bucks in! Don't squeeze into something that you and heaven knows does not fit well. Don't try to hide your body with baggy clothing, either, it will only make you look heavier and frumpy. There are amazing flattering clothing styles for ALL body types and sizes!! Do some research if you don't own anything that you love wearing. Clothes should makes you feel amazing, especially on photo day.

What are your favorite photo taking hacks?

Shoot ya Later :)