how should I dress my child for their portraits

The number one question I get asked by parents is, “What should my child wear for their portraits?”

Of course there’s not one right answer to this question but the information here can give you some guidence. Definitely consider your child’s preferences when dressing them for portraits; if your daughter is a Dressy Bessy who loves frilly dresses and fancy hair bows then by ALL MEANS those should be included in her session. If your son is a Dapper Dan and is used to button-downs and little loafers then absolutely bring them along.

Simple is good (and easy)

Bright colors and big, bold pattern can overwhelm a small child’s small face and pale complexion which means they can end up getting lost in their portraits. And because they’re often about the same size, your child’s face will compete for attention if they wear a t-shirt or sweatshirt that has a large logo on front.

Soft colors and simple patterns work really well on babies and toddlers (and pretty much everyone else, too).

My studio is light and bright with a neutral color palette, and my portraits are simple with very few props, this focuses all the attention on your child so their clothing really matters. Blues, pinks, greens, greys, creams, and white look good on just about everyone. Small florals and checks, gingham and smocking are always classic.

There’s never a charge for clothing changes

If you’re not sure what to have your child wear bring several options and we can look at them together! love it when parents show up with a variety of outfit choices…we lay them all out and have a look before deciding on a clothing strategy; I’m happy to give my suggestions. So long as your child is game for an outfit change or two I’ll be happy to photograph them. If you’re on the fence between dressy or more casual clothing bring a bit of both.

Comfortable wins every time

A comfortable child is a happy child which is why I recommend parents bring that favorite shirt and those comfy shorts and jeans along. That way your child knows they’ll get to wear some of their favorite outfits, too, and not just the ones mom picked. :)

Bows, gels and hairspray

Hair. It can be a hoot for boys and for girls—spiking up this way and that, curls charging every direction, cowlicks causing crazy curves. I’ve seen it all. If your daughter isn’t used to wearing bows but you’d like her to have one in for her portraits, have her wear one at home for a few days before your session so she’ll be comfortable with it. If you gel your child’s hair bring some along in case it needs a touch-up between outfit changes. When scheduling portraits give new haircuts a week or so to grow a bit.

What about shoes?

I love bare feet. I love them so much I photograph barefoot in the studios and I love bare feet on babies, toddlers and little kids. Through the years I’ve encountered a few children that simply won't take their shoes off and that’s ok. But for my money you just can’t beat those naked little feet.

Think about the sofa

I know portraits aren’t made to match your furnishings but if you know where you’ll be hanging your finished photographs that may impact what you have your child wear for their portrait session.

Pro tip

I have an iron and ironing board hidden behind my attic door just outside the studios. It comes in super handy if you didn’t have time to iron before your session (I know you’re busy) or if your clothes fell of their hangers on the way over. Or if your child jumped on them while they were laid out on the bed. Or if you thought it was a poly-cotton dress but ended up being 100% linen. Or…..