What's not to love about a close and cozy Valentine's-themed portrait session? Well for some folks, the answer is, "I don't know what to wear!" After the overwhelm of planning outfits for Christmas and New Year's gatherings, the last thing on your mind might be shopping for a portrait session. (If this describes you, you're in luck! Read on!)
In this article I'll be sharing a handful of easy options for individuals, couples, families, & BFF's making it easy to "shop your closet" for the perfectly-coordinated look without stepping into a single store.
1. Couples
Before opening your closet door, consider your style as a couple. Are you adventurous and outdoorsy? Go for a neutral flannel shirt for him and a coordinating solid-color blouse for her. Does your ideal Friday night include takeout and a cozy cuddle on the couch? How about matching PJs or a cozy knit lounge set for her and jeans and a hoodie for him? Want to go for a date-night or anniversary celebration vibe? A dressy (and stunning!) idea might be a red dress for her paired with a black suit for him.
2. Mom or Dad with Kids
If your children are little, there's nothing cuter than matching! For older kids, pick a "level of formality" and go for coordinating (for example, cozy, nice casual, or dressy). There are plenty of for-purchase options out there but if you're serious about shopping your closet, pick something that both you and your mini are sure to have in your wardrobe already. Don't be afraid to lean into the cutesy theme by incorporating pops of pink or red, such as a red sweater paired with jeans or a cute pink dress for the little one. Adding accessories like heart-shaped hair clips or bow ties can further accentuate the Valentine’s Day theme. Absolutely stumped about what to wear? (Hear me out!) Schedule a curbside order for some basic white sweats for everyone being photographed. The pop of white against the balloon wall, especially, will be so fun!
3. Siblings
For siblings, much of the same advise applies! Younger kids can totally get away with matching while older kids typically want to express their personality a bit more. Again, pick a level of formality and lean into that theme. For example, if going for a dressy option, put boys in khakis and white or black shirts and put girls in pink or red dresses. Let each sibling add a personal touch, whether through accessories or clothing styles, to highlight their unique identity within the matching theme. Looking for a casual option? Throw all the kids in jeans and a white tee and you can't go wrong!
4. Families
For family Valentine's portraits, opt for coordinating over matching. To achieve this look, start with one person's outfit (usually Mom) and individually bring in pieces for each member of the family that coordinate with that anchor piece. For themed sets such as this one, I highly recommend avoiding patterns and focus instead on incorporating varying shades of pinks and neutrals (anything in the white-to-beige family will photograph very well with this set). Remember that textured pieces are your friend! Corduroy, faux fur, lace... all of these will add a layer of stunning complexity to your overall look.
5. "Galentines"
Get all the girlfriends together for a BFF photoshoot! For outdoor sessions, I usually recommend avoiding black (it can easily get lost in a background of deep green trees). This set, however, is in a studio with plenty of light-colored backdrop for us to work with so have all the ladies bust out their favorite LBD for a coordinated look. I promise it'll look oh-so-striking!!!
What are you waiting for? Book your Valentine's Mini!
<>< Laura
