Every year, I’m surprised at how quickly summer passes and this year is now exception. Believe it or not, fall family photo season is already upon us. Since most of my sessions are nearly full, I thought now would be a good time to refresh everyone on planning wardrobes for fall family pictures in Houston. I know firsthand how much effort goes into planning outfits for the whole crew, so allow me to take off some of the mental load!
What to Wear for Outdoor Family Photos
Outdoor family photos are popular every year, and there are a few extra things to consider for outdoor sessions. Apart from opting for close-toed shoes, you’re going to want to keep the background in mind as you select the colors of your clothing. I use this example all the time, but it bears repeating: be careful with green! Depending on how much green is in the setting, not only can it be an editing nightmare for photographers, if you wear a shade of green that matches the background, a floating head/green screen effect is a very real, very bad possibility. Make sure there’s contrast, folks!
What is the best color to wear for a family photo shoot in Houston in the fall?
Now that we’ve gotten the green screen warning out of the way, let’s address how to choose the right colors for your pieces. Want to bring in a bold pop of color? Go for it! But let that statement piece shine by pairing it with more muted tones. Think rich hues like deep green (again, heed my green warning) or navy, which can act as neutrals without feeling bland. These saturated colors complement brighter accents beautifully and help tie everyone’s outfits together. These aren’t often popular color choices for fall photos anyway, but I’d like to mention that neon colors don’t photograph well. And again, keep your surroundings in mind as you select your pieces.
Where to Start With Planning Houston Family Photo Wardrobe
After you’ve narrowed down your color palette, the easiest way to start building your family’s wardrobe is by picking something you feel great in. I always start with my own outfit—usually a piece I love that has some personality, like a fun texture or subtle print—and then pull complementary colors from it to dress everyone else. If my top has soft red or burgundy florals, for example, I might carry those tones into my kids’ outfits for a look that feels coordinated without being too matchy-matchy. Think: cohesive, not clones. That said, a common question is, “Should you wear patterns in family photos?” to which I say: Solids photograph well, but patterns are fine in moderation!
Creating Cohesion in Houston Family Photos
Creating cohesion isn’t as difficult as it sounds. We aren’t reinventing the wheel here, we’re working with what we already have and planning smarter, not harder. One of the easiest ways to do that is by mixing the same color as a shirt for one person, and pants for the other. For example, in a previous session, the boys in a family I photographed wore a combo of khakis & blue. A blue shirt for one sibling, blue pants for another (and yes, jeans count!), while one had khaki pants, and another family member wore a shirt in a similar shade. This simple swap will save you tons of time & create the cohesive effect we’re striving for with wardrobe!
Incorporating Texture for Family Pictures in Houston
It’s easy to get so caught up on cohesive color palettes that we forget you can incorporate texture! Allow me to remind you that one of the simplest ways to add variety to your photos without having too many busy patterns is through texture. So, what do I mean by that? Now that fall is upon us (maybe I should say “fall” since it is Texas), think cable knit sweaters, chartreuse or denim shirts, and even linen. From a photographer’s perspective, these fabrics photograph beautifully because light loves texture. Incorporate sweaters for layering and you’ve got yourself a recipe for a beautiful gallery. Just trust me!
What Shoes Should I Wear for Family Photos?
When planning a wardrobe for the entire family, shoes tend to take the back seat. Then, when you go to actually put on the clothes, you’re hit with realization, “Oh, no! I forgot shoes!” You’re left frustrated and your 3-year-old is stuck rocking the paw patrol light up shoes with an outfit you painstakingly planned. Just more as a reminder: don’t forget to plan shoes when you’re thinking through and laying out outfits!
Check Your Work
Once I’ve landed on pieces for everyone, I like to set everything out on my bedroom floor to see how it all looks together. Sometimes, things are better in concept than actual execution, and it’s best to catch that sooner than the night before your session. Also keep in mind that not every photo will be of the same people. We’ll get some of the whole family, but I also aim for photos with each parent individually with kids, just the kids, so on & so forth. Do all of the outfits work separately or only as a unit? It can take some refining, but the effort is worth it!
Family Photography Houston TX
Hey, I’m Mel of Mel B Photography! As a Houston Texas photographer, I specialize in family sessions that feel natural, timeless, and fun. Whether we’re exploring Houston in the fall or soaking up golden light outdoors, I’ll help you plan a wardrobe and setting that work perfectly together. Let’s make your next session stress-free and beautiful—contact me today to grab your spot!
Need inspiration for a location that fits your family best? Check out this blog:
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