What’s one of the most important aspects of preparing for your session? Outfits, duh! It’s the first thing most people get excited about. Are they going to wear a dress, or a blouse and skirt? Jacket, or no? What about the shoes!? These are are all super important questions. But what is equally (if not more!) important? The colors in the outfits!

Choosing the right colors for you and your family is easily in the top three most important decisions you will make when prepping for your lifestyle session. So, let’s talk color palletes!

The first thing to take into consideration is your photographers editing style. Is their editing style dark and moody, or light and airy? Almost all color pallets will work with a dark and moody editing style, but the same cannot be said for an airyer editing style (Like my editing style.) Overly dark outfits can take away from the focus of a light photo (AKA you!) So, if you’ve booked a session with me try to avoid outfits full of navy blue, super dark greens and greys, and black. (And also neons, avoid those at all costs) A sprinkle of a dark color adds amazing depth to a gorgeous outfit, but don’t let it take over!

Take a look at these color pallets:

Notice how there is only a hint of blacks and other darker colors, if any at all? That is exactly what you want in an outfit for your lifestyle photography session! Look for pastels (and sometimes jewel tones.) Earthy, neutral colors are going to be your absolute best friend. But, (there is a small exception to this rule!) let’s say you’re totally in love with a pitch black top, and really want to pair it with some super cute black shorts, and maybe some black tights… That’s exactly what Hollyn did for her session, but we added some much needed color with the help of the Style Guide!

Let’s take a look:

Even with a slightly smaller (and much darker overall) color pallette, by adding a cream cardigan and brown leather boots Hollyn was able to brighten her appearance and add some much needed depth to bring her outfit from flat, dark, and dingy to WOW!

Now that we’ve covered what colors to choose, let’s look at the why. The ‘why’ almost exclusively relies on one thing: The seasons. Let’s get started!

When it comes to the winter season (outside of Christmas) It’s important to add warmth and color to an otherwise drab (and in Texas, dead) environment. We typically don’t get beautiful, fluffy blankets of snow in the winter, so whites, light pinks, and blues will compliment the surroundings while still focusing on the most important part of the photo… YOU!

Spring and summer fall under the same category in my world. Extra light pinks, lighter shades of green, and beiges and browns are going to be your best friend! And for summer, add slightly deeper and brighter tones of these same colors. (Just avoid neon colors!!) This type of color palette will compliment your surrounding beautifully, but won’t take away from you and your families beautiful faces!

And finally, Autumn! My absolute favorite season. Here in central Texas autumn can look like one of two things: beautiful deep greens, almost like summer… Or completely scorched by the brutal Texas sun. But fear not! Autumn color palettes work beautifully with either of these environments. Deep oranges, as well as softer muted oranges, off whites, and browns are no doubt the best way to go! It’s best to avoid pinks and pastel greens during this season. They’ll compete with the dreamy autumn vibes we’re trying to achieve, and that’s a big no-no!

I know, I know. I just gave you so much information… Rainbows are flying in your head. Don’t worry! Just take it slow. When you book your session you receive a carefully crafted style guide that will help prepare you even more. Seriously, don’t worry, you’re going to look gorgeous!