Well, if you’re anything like me – you’ll try on multiple outfits for such an occasion before you actual decide on one. Don’t feel too pressured…you can always bring multiple outfits, or at least bring an extra and I’ll help you choose.

However, I shall provide some tips of the trade to help make your decision easier.

1. Always, always, always be COMFORTABLE. Don’t ever wear something that you’ve never worn before or would only wear on a rare occasion. Why, you may ask…Well, the fact is, it shows. It’s usually pretty evident in the pictures when you’re awkward or uncomfortable in your clothes…not to mention the constant tugging, pulling, adjusting, itching, etc. Plus, when you look at your images, you’ll think either A. Ugh that outfit was so uncomfortable or B. Man, you can really tell I wasn’t comfortable in that outfit.

2. Be YOURSELF! Totally rock what you got! Wear the type of clothing that fits your style and personality. If you’re not a skirt kinda girl, no one said you have to wear a skirt to be dressy. And if you’re not a tie kinda guy, then no reason to constrain yourself just for a few pictures (but not gunna lie, it sure makes for a fun prop!).

3. Work with LAYERS. Outfit changes can be made with minimal hassle. Change of jacket, scarf, blazer, jewelry, hats, sunglasses, vest, shoes, wide belts etc. With a quick changer and you’ve got a whole new wardrobe to work with.

4. Now let’s talk, KIDS! Think not only layers, but textures, colors, and imagery. You can dress your kid like a mini old man outfit with cute hats, ties, vests, etc. They’re precious! Or those sweet lil’ girls in tutus, bling bling, or high heels. When photographing kids I like it to be a play date! No kid wants to stand still and pose for a picture, they want to play, duh! So I like to let them play and I just tag along. So if we’re playing dress up with lipstick and mom’s high heels then awesome, just reliving my childhood. Or if we’re running around getting dirty and playing superheroes, then splendid I love to act! Ha! So feel free to even let your kids pick out an outfit…I don’t even care if it’s the classic Big Daddy character: Frankenstein with a combo of a Superman t-shirt with rain boots and a cowboy hat – that stuff is hysterical and it will bring loads of laughter to you and your loved ones later!

5. COLORS, coordinating colors are great, but don’t feel like they are necessary. And even if they’re slightly different shades, or textures of the same color – that’s awesome, each person is an individual and should seem like it! Just don’t go crazy with polka dots, plaids, and stripes all in the same palate – gets a little too crazy and distracting. On that note, don’t be afraid to wear patterns, just limit the number of different ones all in the same picture. The only color I typically don’t recommend is white…it tends to reflect a lot of light and often makes me people appear paler than they really are.

6. Along with what to wear…what to BRING: well, water is usually something good to have, or snacks especially if you’re bringing lil’ ones along. Props are awesome! I have a few I’ll bring for particular shoots…but what’s better than your OWN stuff you use on a daily basis tell YOUR story with. For adults, bring in your personalities again…think hobbies, habits. We’re talkin’ snow cones, pets, umbrellas, flowers, cowboy boots, TOMS, converse shoes, Chaco’s, boogie boards, bikes, roller-skates…this list could go on forever. You’re with me, right? To each their own. Incorporate what you love to do with your partner! You’ll treasure those photos, I promise. Now the lil’ guys: pets, wagons, favorite toys, stuffed animals, tutus, hats, their favorite colors, and again, accessorize them!

7. POSING! I get people that say “I’m really awkward in front of the camera, so you’ll have to pose me.” Or there’s the classic Talladega Nights line “I’m not sure what to do with my hands (as they slowly creep up into the camera view finder).” No worries I’ve got you covered, trust me. I like to keep things real and natural, so most of the time I don’t really want you to even think about the camera. Plus I’ll work with you and find the poses that fit you best and make you feel the most comfortable. You’ll be warmed up to the camera and a pro in NO time!