Planning for Photo Success
Weather Woes and Wonderful Warmth
First and foremost, consider the weather. Tree farm photo sessions often take place outdoors, and the weather in the late fall and early winter can be unpredictable. Even if the forecast promises sunshine, temperatures can be chilly. Layering is your best friend! Start with a base layer of thermal underwear or long-sleeved shirts and leggings. Then, add a layer of a comfortable sweater or flannel shirt. Finally, top it off with a stylish coat or jacket. This approach allows you to adapt to changing conditions, shedding layers if the sun appears or bundling up if the wind picks up.
Don’t forget scarves, hats, and gloves! These accessories not only add warmth but also provide opportunities to introduce color and texture to your photos. Think about coordinating the colors of these items with the rest of your outfits. A pop of red from a beanie can be a lovely contrast against a backdrop of green trees.
Footwear is equally crucial. Practicality is paramount, as you’ll likely be walking around the tree farm on uneven ground. Choose boots that are both comfortable and stylish. Consider sturdy, weather-resistant options like leather or suede boots, or even insulated hiking boots for ultimate warmth. Ensure the boots are comfortable enough for everyone to walk and stand in for an extended period.
Color Coordination and Cohesive Style
Next, think about your color palette. Choosing complementary colors will create a visually appealing image. Neutral tones like creams, grays, browns, and blacks are always a safe bet, providing a classic, timeless look. These colors also allow the vibrant greens of the trees and the smiles of your family to really stand out.
Consider incorporating earth tones, which beautifully complement the natural setting of a tree farm. Think shades of olive green, rust orange, mustard yellow, and deep burgundy. Jewel tones, like emerald green, sapphire blue, and ruby red, can add a touch of sophistication and festivity.
Decide if you want to incorporate pops of color. A touch of red, perhaps in a scarf or hat, can create a cheerful holiday feel. Avoid overwhelming the image with too many bright colors, which can be distracting. The goal is to create a cohesive and visually pleasing ensemble.
Don’t be afraid to use different textures to add visual interest. Knit sweaters, corduroy pants, denim jackets, and wool scarves all offer a tactile element that can enhance your photographs.
Family Style and Individual Personalities
When planning your outfits, consider the personalities and preferences of everyone in your family. If you have children, involve them in the process to some extent. Allow them to choose a favorite sweater or hat (within reason!) to ensure they feel comfortable and happy during the shoot. This contributes to natural smiles.
How do you achieve a coordinated look while still maintaining individual style? This is where the mixing and matching comes into play. Decide on a base color palette and then let each family member choose their preferred style within that framework. For example, if you’ve chosen earth tones, one person might wear a rust-colored sweater, another a pair of olive green pants, and another a mustard-colored scarf.
If you have pets, consider including them in the photos! A coordinating bandana or sweater can be a fun way to integrate them into the overall look. Make sure the pet is comfortable and trained to cooperate during the shoot.
Outfit Inspiration for Families
Classic Charm
Embrace a timeless aesthetic with classic looks that will look good for years to come. Think of a plaid shirt paired with dark-wash jeans. This is a great option for all genders and ages. Add a cozy sweater and khaki pants or skirts to the mix. You can pair them with neutral-colored shoes.
Consider knitted cardigans and matching beanies and scarves for a touch of cozy elegance. This look is timeless and photographs beautifully. Think of the beautiful contrast of the green trees, and imagine how nice it would be to have a classic style you can never go wrong with.
Cozy and Casual Vibes
If you prefer a more relaxed and informal look, this is for you! Denim jackets and jeans are a great choice for this, paired with comfortable boots. You can dress it up or down. Another idea is to have everyone wear a comfortable sweater and jogger or jeans, or even some leggings.
Comfort is key. A flannel shirt is an easy way to introduce a cozy element. It’s also comfortable enough for children. Make sure that the entire family feels comfortable.
Elevated Elegance
For a more formal feel, consider velvet dresses or skirts, paired with dressy sweaters. Coordinate this look with nice dress pants or skirts. Accessorize with jewelry and hats for a touch of sophistication.
You can also incorporate holiday-themed accessories. A Christmas-themed headband on a little girl or a festive tie on the gentlemen can be a fun way to inject the holiday spirit into your photos. These styles allow you to elevate your photographs.
Outfitting the Youngest Members
For babies and toddlers, comfort and safety should be your top priorities. Choose soft, comfortable fabrics like cotton or fleece. Dress them in layers to accommodate changing temperatures. Consider a cute onesie, a pair of cozy pants, and a warm jacket.
For older children and teenagers, let their personalities shine through. Involve them in the outfit selection process, allowing them to choose pieces that reflect their style while staying within your chosen color palette. Encourage them to express themselves, and you will find the happiness of seeing their smiles.
As for parents, don’t forget to pick outfits that complement your children’s choices. Make sure everyone in the family feels good about the pictures.
Accessories: The Final Touches
Accessories can elevate your photos. They can create a complete and personalized look. Use accessories like hats, scarves, and gloves.
Consider the colors to ensure that everything is balanced. Add personal touches. Add family heirlooms or meaningful items to connect with the family.
Picture Posing and Capturing the Moments
While this article focuses on outfits, let’s touch briefly on the posing aspect. Encourage natural poses and candid shots. Interact with each other, laugh, and play. The most authentic photographs often come from genuine moments of connection.
Use the environment to your advantage. Lean against trees, walk through the rows of trees, or pick out a tree together. If you’re not sure about posing, research some poses or ask the photographer.
Where to Find Your Perfect Tree Farm Family Photo Outfits
Now that you’re brimming with outfit ideas, let’s discuss some great places to shop. Many retailers offer a wide selection of clothing and accessories perfect for your family photo shoot.
Old Navy: This retailer is known for its affordable and family-friendly styles. They often have great deals on coordinating family outfits.
Gap: Similar to Old Navy, Gap offers a wide range of classic and stylish clothing options.
Target: Target is another fantastic option, providing a mix of trendy and affordable clothing for the whole family.
Etsy: If you’re looking for something unique or custom-made, Etsy is an excellent resource. You can find handmade sweaters, matching family sets, and personalized accessories.
J.Crew Factory: This is a good place to find stylish and affordable pieces that can be coordinated for your photo shoot.
LLBean: If you’re looking for long-lasting pieces, L.L.Bean is a great place. Their outerwear and accessories are high-quality.
Remember: check for sales and promotions! Consider ordering in advance to allow time for any necessary alterations or returns.
Conclusion: Capturing Memories
Choosing the right outfits is a critical step in planning your tree farm family photo shoot. From considering the weather and coordinating colors to selecting outfits that reflect your family’s unique style, careful planning will pay off. Remember to create a cohesive look that allows your genuine smiles to shine.
Most of all, have fun! The goal is to create lasting memories and capture the joy of the holiday season. Embrace the beauty of the tree farm, and enjoy the process of creating your family photos. Your photographs will become treasured keepsakes, reminding you of the love, laughter, and togetherness you share.
If you are looking for more inspiration, be sure to check out online galleries, Pinterest, and Instagram. Many photographers and families share their tree farm family photo outfits, providing inspiration.
Happy shooting and Merry Christmas!