Prep & Outfit Guide for Family Sessions

Preparing for Your Session

The Week Before:

  • Hydrate. Drink plenty of water—hydrated skin looks fresh and healthy in photos.

  • Haircuts? Aim for 5–7 days before to avoid the “just-cut” look.

  • Pick your heirlooms or personal items. Think special jewellery, a favourite blanket, hats, or a beloved pet.

  • Finalise your outfit choices and coordinate around one person’s look (usually Mum or whoever is most fashion-forward!).

The Day Before:

  • Steam or iron your clothes and lay everything out—shoes, accessories, undergarments, and touch-up items.

  • Sleep well! A rested face is your best accessory.

On the Day:

  • Eat a light, satisfying meal (nothing too heavy—it’s hot out there).

  • Arrive in your chosen outfits.

  • Bring water, tissues, powder, lip balm/lipstick, and anything else that might make you feel fresh and confident.

Babies (0–1 Year)

Prep:

  • Pack essentials: nappies, wipes, muslin cloth, spare outfit for baby (and maybe you), a favourite toy/blanket.

Outfits:

  • Breathable fabrics like cotton or bamboo.

  • Soft colours: cream, soft blue, blush, warm neutrals.

  • Simple rompers or bloomers—avoid zips and scratchy seams.

  • Barefoot is ideal for comfort and cuteness.

Toddlers (1–3 Years)

Prep:

  • Pack snacks, water, and something fun like bubbles or stickers.

  • We work with their energy—no pressure to perform.

Outfits:

  • Keep it comfy: linen overalls, cotton dresses, elastic shorts.

  • Darwin-friendly tones: rust, sage, mustard, beige.

  • Avoid bulky layers or stiff collars.

  • Soft sandals or barefoot, depending on location.

Young Kids (4–8 Years)

Prep:

  • Talk it up as a fun outing or adventure.

  • Let them help choose from pre-picked outfits to boost their confidence.

Outfits:

  • Flowy dresses, relaxed shirts and chino shorts, or jumpsuits.

  • Muted colour palette: dusty pink, soft olive, navy, sand.

  • Nothing too warm or itchy—natural fibres only.

  • Cute sandals or bare feet.

Tweens (9–12 Years)

Prep:

  • Involve them in decisions—this age loves having a say.

  • Keep the vibe relaxed and low-pressure.

Outfits:

  • Casual but neat: button-up shirts, floaty dresses, jumpsuits, or clean polos.

  • Stick to mid-tones or neutrals with pops of colour.

  • Prioritise breathable clothes that move well.

Teens (13+ Years)

Prep:

  • Let them express personal style—but gently steer toward timeless looks.

  • Hydration + minimal screen time = fresh, bright eyes.

Outfits:

  • Classic cuts and natural fabrics.

  • Avoid super trendy or logo-heavy outfits—less is more.

  • Shoes can be simple or we’ll go barefoot depending on the setting.

Parents

Prep:

  • Plan your outfit first, then coordinate the family around it.

  • Hydrate in the days before. Trust us—it shows.

  • Try on your outfit a few days in advance—sit, stretch, move, and make sure it’s comfy.

Mum’s Outfits:

  • Flowy dresses, relaxed skirts, or linen jumpsuits.

  • Muted colours: terracotta, olive, cream, warm neutrals.

  • Think texture over pattern—lace, soft ruffles, or woven linen photograph beautifully.

  • Avoid clingy, shiny fabrics in the heat.

  • Barefoot or stylish sandals are perfect.

Dad’s Outfits:

  • Short or long-sleeve button-ups in cotton or linen.

  • Pair with chinos or smart shorts.

  • Stick to colours like stone, navy, pale blue, sand.

  • Ditch logos and stiff collars—relaxed is best.

Style Summary

Colour Palette:

  • Soft tones like sage, rust, olive, cream, navy, mustard, charcoal.

  • Avoid: neons, loud patterns, big logos.

Coordinating (not matching):

  • Start with one outfit and coordinate around it.

  • Example family look:

    • Mum: soft olive dress

    • Dad: cream shirt + tan pants

    • Daughter: rust wrap dress

    • Son: navy button-up + neutral shorts

Fabrics:

  • Stick with breathable, natural fabrics: cotton, linen, light rayon.

  • Avoid tight fits—comfort and movement are key.

Shoes:

  • Neutral flats, simple sandals, loafers.

  • Barefoot works beautifully for beach or forest sessions.

Accessories:

  • Keep jewellery minimal and meaningful.

  • Hats/scarves optional—we’ll choose based on the weather and vibe.

Special Notes for Older Family Members

  • Let me know if mobility or heat is a concern.

  • Bring a folding chair or stool for breaks if needed.

  • I always adjust the pace to suit energy levels and comfort—it’s about enjoying the moment.