Curious where to start when picking what to wear for your upcoming portraits?
Moms, I know it’s all about the baby, all the time, but TRUST ME on this one: lets pick your outfit FIRST.
Here’s why: there’s tons and tons of cute baby clothes, and children’s outfits, and no matter what they are going to look adorable. Finding the right fit for you always seems to take the longest. Why narrow down your options even more by having to then see if once you find one you love and realizing it doesn’t match the kids outfits. Let’s find something that you look & feel great in and then we will coordinate off of your outfit.
When choosing something to wear 9/10 I’m going to suggest a dress (or skirt). Dresses look stunning on every single body shape and will make you feel feminine and confident for your photos. When we are working in the sudio, a slightly more formal feel is truly going to set these images apart and make them feel extra special.
When choosing what to wear in your studio event photos I never want anything too snug or too loose. We want to create a lovely shape that shows off each mums favorite features while keeping them comfortable. If there are features you might be a little more self conscious about, don’t be afraid to let your photographer(me) know. (For example if you’re a little self conscious about your arms we wouldn’t want to pick a sleeveless dress. Most of my new mommies prefer a flowing waistline for more comfortable fit around their belly.)
*** All dresses in images are from JCPs client closet**
Colors and patterns play an important role in selecting your wardrobe. My studio has gorgeous bright light and white walls with original warm hardwood floors.
We want everything to feel cohesive and natural as possible while looking GORGEOUS.
When selecting wardrobes for my family sessions I personally stick to three main color groups: neutrals, pastels, or lighter earth tones hues. These color groups photograph beautifully every. single. time.
Are there certain colors I try to avoid?
YES – bright neon colors in MOST cases can cause harsh reflections.
Too much of one color – while we want everyone to be cohesive we don’t want it to feel too matchy matchy.
Planning to buy a new dress & want to see a few of my current favorite dresses I’ve been eying? I’m loving soft patterns for a mums gown lately that have a classic shape. A few of my favorite shops are The Worth Collective, Nothing Fits But, Free People, and Anthropologie.
https://www.freepeople.com/shop/sea-la-vie-midi/?category=dresses&color=011&type=REGULAR&quantity=1
My client closet is available to use for all of my clients. Most of my dresses are designed to fit more than one size due to elastic waistlines and smocked chest areas & style.
Here is a link to my current client closet, I am constantly adding new additions, if your curious about sizing or would like additional information about a specific dress, please don’t hesitate to reach out:
https://jesscattlesphotography.pixieset.com/dresses
Once you find the perfect dress the easy step is the kiddos:
Think classic and timeless. I love cotton, linen & knit pieces for littles.
If your little one isn’t walking yet I typically suggest a romper or one piece so diapers are constantly making a sneak peak appearance when being held in photos. I love adding lots of candid moments playing with your little one, so also keep in mind the possibility of bending, sitting with, and lifting your child if they are still small enough to do so.
For locals to Columbia, South Carolina I Adore the small shops Brother & Sissy, Duck Duck Goose, & Marigold Modern.
Online shops I also tend to find pieces for kiddos include Jamie Kay, Zara, H&M, Noralee and Rylee & Cru.
Add them all together and you will have the perfect outfit for your upcoming studio photo session.
jesscattlesphotography.com
Xx,
Jess Cattles
