Do's:
1. Coordinate but don't match - Choose a basic color palette and have everyone choose different tonal ranges in that palette. You can have one person that stands out with a patter in their outfit. The rest of the groups outfits can be based around that outfit including accessories, but everyone else should be more neutral. Patterns are good in moderation.
2. Accessorize - Scarves, hats, flowers in the hair for girls, jewelry, sweaters, vests, jackets, etc. These can all take a so-so image and make it feel polished. Don't let the items overwhelm the subject or the photos though.
3. Shoe - Yes they do matter! Shoes can make or break an outfit. Sneakers should be avoided unless they truly compliment the outfit.
4. Where will you be hanging your photos? Be sure to take into consideration where you want to hang your photos. You don't want to wear colors that will not go with the room you plan to put the images in.
5. Be comfortable - It is very important to feel good in your clothes and be able to move in them. Also think about the location you will having your session, you don't want to dress formal for an outdoor natural light session. Dress to go with your session location and to compliment that location.
Don'ts:
1. Avoid logos, graphics, characters, labels, etc. They are distracting and usually do not photograph well. There are instances where this rule can be broken as long as it fits the theme of the session.2. Don't get a haircut right before a session. Try to go at least a week before so it has a little time to grow out to look natural.
3. Don't all wear the same color, that is boring and dates a photo. And please do not put everyone in khaki pants, or all in denim and all in white or black shirts. Coordinate don't match!
4. Try to avoid obvious trends that will be dated soon. You can do fashion forward while still being timeless.
Hope these tips help you find the perfect outfit for your session!
