Fall Family Style Guide, Because it really matters. . .
You could have the best location, the most expensive photographer, but if your outfits clash, then forget about it.
Seriously. Styling matters as much as the person you choose to take those photos.
Please note that if you hire me as your photographer, I offer styling assistance throughout the entire process. I help pick those outfits, give advice, and provide a complete client closet. Below is a guide to help your family pick clothing that complements each other and creates a beautiful canvas for me to document!
Women: pick your outfit first
I tell every single family this, every single time. Moms: Pick your outfit first. Moms, we are the ones who birthed the babies and who went through those changes. We ladies also have many more options in the fashion world than men do, so go out there, shop and have fun! Amazon offers an abundance of choices. Explore and find your gem! Find what makes you feel fabulous. , and I will help you plan everyone else around you.
Remember, as an Austin Family Photographer, I have a full client closet for my ladies to choose from. I also have a list of brands that I personally like when shopping.
Brands I adore:
Amazon
Joyfolie
Baltic Born
Ivy City Co.
Indie Blue
Indie & Co.
Worth Collective
Daughters of India
Free People
Color Pallet
When choosing colors, please keep my editing style in mind. I edit on the warmer, earthy side. Neutrals, warm tones, and muted neutral hues work best for my editing style. Try to avoid jewel tones, cool tones, or light colors. Also, avoid harsh whites. Creams or off-whites photograph much better than harsh white. I also prefer to avoid black because it shows everything. Below are colors I adore.
Colors I love:
Cream
Beige
Mustard Yellow
Brown
Rust
Forest Green
Burnt Orange
Demin
Patterns and Textures
Please do not be afraid of patterns, but be mindful. Have one or two people in your group have a pattern, and that is it! Make sure the pattern is simple and not distracting or overly vibrant. Also, avoid logos, even on shoes.
There are some lovely dresses out there that have patterns, and please do not shy from them! Just keep in mind the colors for fall, and go with it.
When it comes to textures, feel free to experiment. If someone has a patterned dress, try to find a textured piece for the other person: corduroy overalls, Knitted sweaters, faux fur, Suede jackets, or Silk Skirts. Textures can be fun and give depth to photos. Think more than just cotton.
Complementing vs. Matching
‘Forget matching everyone. In 2025, it looks tacky. Try to use multiple colors in your family, but colors that complement! Just as mentioned before, colors are essential, and if you choose colors that are similar, muted, and earthy, then they all should flow together. If you need help, I am here, but take risks and do not be afraid to dress someone in brown, denim, and mustard yellow all within a session,
Let’s talk about shoes, or not. . .
Okay, I love bare feet, but I also love tall grass, and those don’t mix. The reality is we live in Texas, where there are snakes and ticks. I care about my clients, so the right shoes are a must most of the time. Shoes can ruin a whole outfit. Please avoid shoes with logos or distracting neon and designs. Instead, go with neutrals. Leather boots, cream loafers, nude sneakers, and suede booties can really tie your outfit together. If we are going into the Texas nature, keep in mind closed-toe shoes. Sandals are great for beach sessions, but not ideal for those country sessions in tall grass. Spending the extra money on a new pair of shoes that work with your outfit is worth it in the long run.
I offer full styling help and advice when you hire me as your photographer. Let’s go out there and capture some stunning photos.
-Malinda Sloan, Austin Lifestyle Photographer
