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Portrait Session Styling Tips

Tips to consider when choosing your wardrobe

Start With a Color Palette

Ladies, start with an outfit you love and feel great in, then build the rest of the family’s looks around it. Aim for 2–3 coordinating colors (soft earth tones always photograph beautifully) with added interest through subtle patterns, texture, and tonal variation.

 

When possible, let each person wear a unique outfit rather than matching exactly. Matching colors too closely can visually blend people together or make poses feel less dynamic. Full matching outfits can also flatten the overall look. Avoid bright reds, oranges, and neons—they can reflect onto skin and shift tones. Stark white can also appear blue in the shade or look washed out. Click here for some inspiration!

Consider the Location 

A park with lots of greenery: Choose light neutrals like ivory, cream, or dusty blue to stand out. Avoid black and navy, which can blend into the background.

At home: Pull inspiration from your space—colors, textures, and overall vibe. Your photos will hang on these walls, so consider the colors you want to see up there, too!

Overcast days: Skip whites, grays, and pale pastels; opt for richer earth tones instead. A small pop of color through accessories or makeup can also add beautiful dimension.

Texture & Movement

Movement and texture bring images to life. Flowing skirts and dresses photograph especially well, adding softness and natural motion. Longer skirts are also practical for moms—easy to sit, move, and play in, and great for little ones to interact with.

 

Not a dress person? No problem. Look for other ways to incorporate texture like satin, chunky knits, feathers, scarves, or relaxed wide-leg pants. Even a simple jeans-and-tee combo works beautifully when fabrics have depth and character (for example, a tee with texture and a lighter-wash denim).

Authenticity Wins

The best photos come from feeling like yourself. Wear something comfortable, true to your style, and something that makes you feel confident. Ask me about building a mood board tailored to your location and vision!

Brands I Love

Kids and Babies: Rylee & Cru, Zara Kids, Bonpoint, La Coqueta Kids, NoraleeLittle Planet by Carters, Dear James

Maternity & Postpartum: HillhouseNothing Fits But, Sleeper

Dresses: Rent the Runway, SezaneReformation, ASTR, Staud

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© EMILY ENGLER 2026 | IMAGES BY EMILY ENGLER

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