What to Wear for Back to School Portraits 2024
What to wear is the number one question I get asked as a photographer. I get it! Choosing outfits can be overwhelming and tricky. Although, there is no correct answer, I do have some tips for timeless results for your child’s back to school portraits! But please also remember…I’m photographing you…not your clothes!
Simple is Best
Keeping your child’s clothing simple in both design and pattern is best for school portraits. Clothing with large busy patterns like florals, plaids, or large rugby stripes can really distract form your cute kiddo’s face and smile. Smaller patterns like a calico, stripes, or dots will photograph really well and can add some movement to your portraits. I strongly suggest no logos, characters or those neon athletic shirts! These types of clothing really are distracting and will not age gracefully.
Solid Colors and Textures
I personally think solid neutral colors like white, cream, gray, black, pale blue, or soft pink photograph really well for the moody portraits I’ll be making during my Back to School Photo Session Event. If you want to add more color, I personally don’t like really strong primary colors, instead pick earth or jewel tones, color that are a bit more muted. Adding texture in your child’s clothing like a collared shirt with buttons, a denim jacket, a tulle dress, or a knitted sweater can also really add depth and visual interest to your portrait.
Be Yourself!
Now, all the things I have said are suggestions, I realize you and your children are unique individuals with personality and character! And that is what I absolutely love about my job! I love getting to know you and your family and what makes you special, and helping you remember those things by documenting them through photography. Please have your child wear what they feel like themselves in! Dress them clothes that are comfortable that won’t make them itchy! Please! PLEASE! Be YOU!
Coordinate with Siblings
I plan on making a photo of all the siblings that come in together. So while you’re choosing clothing for your kids, please consider how they will look together. I think it’s always easier to start with one outfit. Maybe your toddler has a special dress from Noralee (my favorite online kids clothing store for special occasions), or your son will only wear soft henleys from Target, or your teenager feels most confident in jeans and a hoody…start with that outfit and go from there! Pick colors and textures that compliment each other but also add variety. You’ve got this!
