The most frequently asked question I get from clients is “Now, what should we wear?” If you hate shopping, are unsure of how to coordinate the family’s outfits, or just want a second opinion on the clothing you’ve chosen, I LOVE to help my clients at any stage in the planning process. I for one, love to shop, so browsing clothing sites, Pinterest, and creating mood boards is actually fun for me! If you book a photoshoot with Emily Ann Photography, you will receive several “What to Wear” inspiration posts and I always encourage clients to text me photos for feedback.

Today, we are going to start with the STAR OF THE SHOW: MOM! Mom, you should start with your outfit first. Because if mom ain’t happy – ain’t nobody happy! And if you’ve been following me for any amount of time you should know that I am a BIG fan of mom wearing a dress. Why? So many reasons! (But don’t worry, keep scrolling if wearing a dress isn’t your style).

Dresses for Mom to Wear for a Beautiful Family Photo Session

Chances are, you are spending quite a bit of money for this family photoshoot and only do it maybe once a year (if that)! What better chance to get dressed up and splurge a little!? If buying something new isn’t in the cards – shop your closet! What do you feel confident wearing? What outfit makes you feel good? I have a few suggestions when choosing a dress:

1. Flow: Make sure your dress isn’t skin tight. Photographers love movement in their photos – think swishing and twirling like you did when you were little!
2. Texture/Details: Look for fun details in clothing: Ruffles, embroidery, lace, bows, interesting cuts, sheer fabrics and/or fun buttons. These add visual interest and dimension to photos!
3. Color: Muted tones work best – if a color is really bright, it will leave color-cast on your skin. Stay away from Neons and bright/bold/shocking colors.
4. Length: Mini skirts may be in but for a family photo session we are going to be PLAYING! I’m going to ask you to sit on the ground, twirl, throw your kids in the air, dance. If you can’t safely raise your arms in the air or sit on the ground without fear of flashing the camera – your dress/skirt is probably too short.

Here are some favorites I’ve found currently for sale at some of my favorite stores:

Some of my favorite sites to find these dresses are Old Navy, Amazon, Bohme, September (a local Seattle boutique), Lane Bryant, and Clad & Cloth. 

You could also support a local small business and google a local boutique to you! Book a private appointment for tailored service and try-on sesh!

Other Looks for Mom to Wear for a Seattle Family Photoshoot:

SO, even though my favorite look is a dress… As a Seattle family photographer, I know that this style isn’t everyone’s cup of tea! We live in the Pacific Northwest – our city’s style is described as “outdoorsy, sporty, and casual.” Seattle is home to a diverse population of creatives that add their own touch of personality – and I fully embrace this! Many of my clients are more of the “sweater and jeans” type of person. So a few other ideas besides a dress might be a fun blouse or sweater with jeans or fitted pants. How about a jumper? What about a blazer with cut-off jeans and boots? Here are some looks I am loving:

Again, look for texture, details, interesting fabric and flow. Ditch your casual jeans for a pair of tailored pants! I’m loving the look of fancy + grunge! These looks are from Old Navy, Antropologie, & Other Stories, Roolee, Amazon, and more! You can achieve these looks by shopping your closet, shopping on a budget or splurging at your favorite shop!

Don’t Forget the Accessories:

A sure fire way to dress up any outfit is with accessories! Fun jewelry, a hat, scarves, fun shoes add interest and personality to your photos – so don’t forget this step! It’s also a good way to add variety (some photos with the hat, some without etc).

 

Earrings from Nickel & Suede.  Hat and shoes from Bohme.

Want to learn more or book a Covid-19-safe family photoshoot in Seattle? Visit my booking page and portfolio! I would love to capture some sweet memories of your family! 

Check back for some ideas for dad + kid looks!

 

*Love a piece from this inspiration board? Message me and I’ll send you the link!