Styling Family Photos for the Holidays

Written by Nicollette Vizuet

Ilove Christmas. I am that person who puts up her Christmas tree earlier than most sane humans. I actually enjoy wrapping gifts. I enjoy any day of the year where I am allowed to eat copious amounts of ham. And even though my love for Christmas does not spur me to buy gifts in a timely manner and I wait until the week of Christmas to start purchasing presents, I am still obsessed with the holiday.

The crisp fall air here in Kentucky can only mean one thing - it’s family photo season. Between scheduling a photographer, wrangling your little ones and convincing your husband you “need” another round of family photos, coordinating outfits might not be at the forefront of your mind. Rest assured, you probably have a little bit of everything you need in your closets!

COORDINATE, NOT DUPLICATE

Isn’t it a rite of passage, at some point in your childhood, to have photos with your siblings in identical outfits? You know, like the ones where everyone is dawning a white turtleneck and light wash denim? Ours is still proudly displayed over my grandmother’s mantle. I’m a huge proponent of not putting everyone in the exact same outfit. Coordinating, not duplicating, is key! Picking a color scheme will help avoid clashing, but still allow freedom for everyone to wear what they love. You can usually shop your own closets to establish color combinations!

WHO WEARS WHAT?!

Chances are, my crew just wants to be told what to wear and what time to be ready. The guys usually aren’t too concerned about theiroutfits,makingplanningmucheasier on my end. Select something you love and plan the family attire based on that. Printed dress? Pull a color from that and put your partner in solids. Keep the same level of formalitythroughouteachoutfit.Mybabies are most likely to cooperate when they’re comfortable. Mario thrives in a button downandformaloutfits.Whenitcomesto cooler temps, I like to plan for a nice sweater and the most comfortable dress pants we canfindforthekids.

COME WITH A FUN ATTITUDE!

No one wants a forced smile hanging in their living room! Bring the excitement and get a genuine laugh from your crew while getting photos. Planning ahead avoids frustration when getting ready the dayof.Layouteachoutfitandcoordinating accessories the day before. My little ones respond best knowing there’s an incentive afterwards, so something like candy or Play-Doh waiting in the car is always a plus. Turn on a fun playlist, ask your husband to bust out his best dad jokes or include your pet to keep everyone smiling.

No one looks back at family photos and thinks “wow, we probably would have been happierifweworetheotheroutfitoption.” …Well, unless you’re all in the matching white turtlenecks. My point being, enjoy the day. When you make it fun, it shows! Play your favorite song, dance along, wear something that shows your personality and just be yourselves! OP

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