As the warm hues of golden hour spill over the horizon, it's the perfect time to gather your family for a portrait session that will be etched in your hearts forever. Golden hour family portraits offer a magical blend of natural light and beautiful scenery, creating an enchanting backdrop for our most cherished memories. To compliment the serene lighting with colors that will look cohesive and planned, I always recommend taking some time to consider your wardrobe coordination. To ensure your family looks their best and feels comfortable during this special session, I'm sharing some of my top tips on how to dress elegantly for the occasion.
Embrace Timeless Elegance:
When choosing outfits for your golden hour family portraits, opt for classic and timeless styles that stand the test of time. Neutral colors and soft pastels complement the warm, golden light and add a touch of sophistication to your images. Consider coordinating your family's outfits to create a cohesive and harmonious look, allowing your unique personalities to shine while remaining beautifully unified. Avoiding red tones, or anything with large logos or images will also go a long way to have your images stand the test of time.
Flowing Fabrics for Effortless Looks:
Flowing fabrics and loose silhouettes add an element of grace and movement to your portraits. Dresses with delicate draping or skirts that catch the golden light will create an ethereal and romantic feel. Ladies, having a loose dress also allows for the opportunity to spin, twist or twirl! For the gentlemen, lightweight fabrics such as linen or chambray shirts exude a relaxed elegance, adding depth to the overall composition.
Complement the Scenery:
Since your golden hour portraits will likely be taken outdoors, consider your surroundings when choosing outfits. Soft, earthy tones harmonize with natural landscapes, while jewel tones provide a captivating contrast against lush greenery. Keep in mind that the goal is to complement, not compete, with the beauty of the golden hour setting.
Accessorize with Subtlety:
Subtle and elegant accessories can add a touch of personality and charm to your portraits. Delicate jewelry, scarves, or hats can enhance individual style without overwhelming the overall composition. Avoid overly bold or distracting accessories that may draw attention away from the genuine connections and emotions shared during the session. And to keep your appearances keeping polished and refined, skip the apple watch and opt for a traditional watch. Remember, accessories should be minimal to avoid distracting from the true subject of the photograph. You!
Comfort is Key:
Above all, prioritize comfort for your family during the portrait session. When everyone feels at ease, genuine smiles and natural interactions shine through. Opt for clothing that allows free movement and makes you and your loved ones feel confident and relaxed. If you have a favorite shirt or blouse that coordinates with your location and everyone's wardrobes, wear it! Happy and comfortable faces are the secret to capturing authentic moments that will fill your hearts with joy.
Just In Case:
When photographing outside, you never know what can happen. The weather can turn on us in a moment's notice, or maybe it was nice and warm one second, but the sun disappeared behind the clouds and now its a bit cold. Photographing families is a blessing, but let's be honest, kids are just dang messy. Accidentally kneeling in the dirt instead of on a blanket, or maybe just a bit too much bouncing around can quickly turn their (and even yours) clothing from clean to chaos. Keeping some extra layers or spare clothing handy can save everyone from frustration and discomfort.
Golden hour family portraits present a beautiful opportunity to freeze time and preserve your family's unique bond in the most exquisite light. By choosing classic and timeless outfits that complement the natural surroundings, you'll create a harmonious and elegant portrait that reflects your family's love and connection. As you prepare for your golden hour session, keep these tips in mind, and let the enchantment of the setting sun weave its magic through your portraits.
If you're excited to capture this year's Christmas holiday with unforgettable mini sessions, be sure to subscribe to my mailing list and watch for upcoming blog posts, where I'll unveil the joy and wonder that golden hour photography brings to the holiday season.