When planning a family portraits , especially in a vibrant city like Houston, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing the right outfits. Coordinating clothing for everyone can be tricky, but with a little guidance, you can create a cohesive and timeless look that will enhance your family’s portraits. In this article, we’ll go over some essential tips on how to dress your family for a portrait session in Houston, considering weather, location, and style.

Additionally, Lissette, unlike many other photographers in Houston, provides a personalized experience by offering a wardrobe consultation. She helps clients coordinate their outfits, scouts the perfect location, and gives all the tips to ensure a successful session. Lissette also offers the flexibility of bringing her studio to your home, making her in-home sessions convenient and comfortable.

Consider Houston’s Weather and Season

Houston’s weather can be unpredictable, with hot summers and mild winters. Your family’s comfort is key to ensuring everyone looks relaxed and happy in the portraits . Here’s how to choose outfits based on the season:

Summer: Lissette does not schedule outdoor sessions during the hot summer months. She recommends waiting for fall or spring, when the weather is more temperate, and outdoor portraits are much more comfortable.

Fall/Winter: Layers work well in the cooler months, and rich, earthy tones like burgundy, mustard, and deep greens complement the fall foliage in Houston parks. Don’t forget scarves or stylish cardigans to add texture.

Choose a Color Palette that Complements the Family

One of the biggest challenges in family photography is making sure everyone’s outfits coordinate without matching exactly. Here’s how to choose a color palette that brings the group together:

Neutral Colors: Think beige, soft whites, greys, and pastels. These tones work well with almost any backdrop, whether you’re shooting in a park, at a Houston landmark, or in one of Lissette’s in-home sessions.

Pop of Color: Add interest by incorporating a pop of color. For example, if most of the family is in neutral tones, one or two family members can wear something in a bold shade, like mustard, navy, or burnt orange.

Avoid Loud Patterns: While small patterns or textures (like a plaid scarf) can add visual interest, avoid loud or clashing prints. They can distract from the overall cohesiveness of the photo.

Location Matters: Dress for the Setting

The location of your portrait can significantly impact your outfit choices. Lissette works closely with her clients, showing them different locations and allowing them to choose the one that best fits their family’s personality. Some clients prefer to have their session at home or at their workplace, offering a more personal touch. Consider how your clothing will complement or contrast the backdrop of your session:

Urban Setting: If your portrait is in downtown Houston or a more urban area, sleek, modern outfits with clean lines often work best. Consider pairing tailored pants with a chic blouse or a casual but stylish dress for kids.

Nature Setting: For portraits in Houston’s parks or green spaces like Hermann Park or Buffalo Bayou, flowy dresses, earthy tones, and soft fabrics that move with the wind create a dreamy look.

In-Home Sessions: For in-home sessions, comfort is key. Choose outfits that reflect your family’s personality while keeping the look timeless and cohesive with your home’s decor.

Coordinate, Don’t Match

Gone are the days of everyone wearing identical white shirts and jeans. Instead, aim for coordination without looking too matchy-matchy:

Pick a Main Color: Choose one or two primary colors and build around that palette. For example, if you decide on navy and cream, you can have different family members wear shades within that range, mixing in complementary colors and textures.

Balance Patterns and Solids: If one person is wearing a patterned outfit, balance it with solid colors for the rest of the family. This avoids overwhelming the photo and keeps the focus on your faces rather than the outfits.

Accessorize Thoughtfully

Accessories can elevate your family’s outfits but be careful not to overdo it. Here’s how to strike the right balance:

Jewelry: Simple, elegant jewelry can add a touch of sophistication, but avoid anything too flashy that could distract from the overall look.

Hats and Scarves: Hats can be fun for kids, and scarves or shawls are great for adding layers and texture. Just be sure they don’t cover too much of the face, as this is the focal point of the portrait.

Shoes: Don’t forget about shoes! Make sure they’re clean and match the formality of your outfits. Avoid overly casual footwear, like sneakers, unless you’re going for a casual, lifestyle shoot.

Keep Comfort in Mind, Especially for Children

Children can become fidgety if they’re uncomfortable in their outfits, and this can affect the overall vibe of the portrait. Here are a few things to consider:

Soft, Breathable Fabrics: Choose clothing that is comfortable and easy for kids to move in. Avoid anything too tight or restrictive.

Minimal Layers: Unless it’s cold, try to avoid too many layers that might make kids feel hot and irritated. Lightweight sweaters or jackets work well for fall or spring portraits.

Plan Ahead and Try Everything On

Last-minute outfit changes can cause unnecessary stress on the day of your portrait. To avoid this, plan your family’s outfits well in advance:

Try Everything On: Make sure everyone tries on their outfit a few days before the shoot to ensure it fits well and looks cohesive.

Avoid Wrinkles: Iron or steam clothing the night before to avoid wrinkles. Wrinkled clothes can detract from the overall look of the photo.

Bonus Tip: Reflect Your Family’s Personality

Most importantly, choose outfits that reflect your family’s unique personality. If your family is laid-back and fun, go for casual, bright colors. If you prefer a more formal or classic look, stick with timeless pieces. The key is to feel comfortable and confident so that your portraits reflect genuine emotion and connection.

Conclusion

Dressing for a family portrait session in Houston doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By considering the weather, location, and your family’s personality, you can create a cohesive and stylish look that will make your portraits stand out. Remember to keep comfort in mind, coordinate without matching, and let your outfits complement the beautiful Houston backdrop. With these tips, you’ll be ready to capture stunning, timeless family portraits that you’ll cherish for years to come.

Lissette offers more than just photography—she provides a full experience by personally assisting clients with wardrobe coordination, location scouting, and providing all the tips necessary for a successful session. Whether it’s a beautiful outdoor shoot in the fall, or a cozy in-home session, Lissette ensures every detail is planned for a flawless family portraits.