Archive for October, 2013

It’s been a while since I’ve posted some sessions to my blog, but excited to start sharing some fall family sessions. The last time I saw this adorable little girl she wasn’t even walking and in a few short weeks she will be joined by a baby sister. I was charmed by her ease in front of the camera and even her ability to tell me everything she knows. Looking forward to capturing more of this family next month during their newborn session!

Elizabeth is a graphic designer & natural light photographer, specializing in lifestyle portraits for families in the greater Los Angeles.
To see her portfolio and additional information, please visit the main website at: www.emadesign.net. Thanks for looking!

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What to wear in your family photos

photo tips :: october 2013

My clients often ask for advice on what to wear when trying to coordinate a family session. With the holidays looming, what better time to address your questions.

The clothes you wear are just as important as the lighting, location and posing. You want your session to reflect your style & personality and the following tips will guide your wardrobe selection.


Solids and dark colors are the most flattering and don’t draw attention away from your face. I’m not entirely against patterns, but like to encourage clients to use simple patterns sparingly (skirt, tie, or perhaps headband) so no one person stands out.

DO:  Choose a top with sleeves at least to the elbow. Arms take up more skin area than your face and may appear larger than they actually are.

DO: Stick to more fitted clothing. Anything hanging off your body (baggy) will make you look bigger than you are.

DO:  Accentuate the positive. (Darker clothing is slimming. Light tones tend to emphasize body size in photos.)

DO:  Tie in your own personality with accessories. Scarves and jewelry help pull together a great look.


Coordinate your outfits to remain in the same color family or wear complimentary colors. (A great example would be to choose a base color, like grey, and then add pops of one or two accent colors, like yellow or turquoise.)

DON’T:  Wearing white matching shirts with Khakis blends everyone together and washes the faces out.DON’T:  Dressing your children in shirts with big logos or characters is distracting in a photo and takes away from that timeless look.DON’T:  Wearing clothes that wrinkle easily.

DON’T:  Exact matching outfits only look good on young children.

DON’T:  Avoid changing your hairstyle or cutting your hair right before your session.