Welcome!
I’m so excited to photograph your family session! These portraits are more than just pictures—they’re heirlooms. Whether we're shooting in my cozy studio, your home, or a corner or out in a golden field, your session is all about capturing connection, emotion, and the beauty of your family. I want you to feel confident, stylish, and completely yourself.
At Ericka Deanna Photography, I focus on timeless, fine art portraiture that highlights emotion and elegance. This guide will help take the stress out of figuring out what to wear by providing inspiration, tips, and curated outfit ideas so everyone shows up looking and feeling their best.
Styling Tips
Coordinate, don’t match: Choose a color palette and build outfits around complementary tones and textures rather than everyone wearing the exact same thing.
Neutrals are your best friend: Think ivory, soft taupe, warm beige, muted olive, dusty blue, or soft blush. They photograph beautifully and won’t distract from your faces.
Layers + textures: Add interest with knits, lace, linen, or soft cottons. Layers like cardigans, shawls, or accessories give your photos more dimension.
Avoid logos & busy patterns: Subtle patterns like florals or stripes are okay in moderation but avoid bold prints or logos.
Comfort = confidence: Make sure everyone feels good in what they’re wearing. When you’re comfortable, it shows.
Outfit Inspiration
Classic Neutrals
Adults: Soft neutrals like cream, blush, oatmeal, or warm taupe photograph beautifully. Choose flowy dresses, skirts, or tailored pants paired with simple tops or jumpsuits for a refined look.
Children: Knit rompers, linen dresses, or neutral tops with suspenders or trousers keep the look classic and comfortable.
Everyone: Aim for light, airy fabrics and soft neutral tones to create a timeless, cohesive style that feels natural and elegant.
Garden Vibe
Adults: Floral prints, soft patterns, or solid tones in pale blue, moss green, or neutrals photograph beautifully. Try flowy dresses, puff sleeves, button-ups, or chinos for a polished yet relaxed look.
Children: Cotton dresses, overalls, or bloomers in coordinating tones add a playful, timeless touch.
Everyone: Blend light fabrics and subtle color accents for a cohesive, natural look that feels comfortable and effortless.
Warm Tones
Adults: Warm-toned outfits in rust, mustard, or cream create a cozy fall look. Pair soft textures like linen or knits with loafers, boots, or flats.
Children: Neutral or earthy tones like burnt orange, tan, or cream photograph beautifully. Try ruffled dresses, cozy sweaters, or tailored pants with simple shoes.
Everyone: Mix complementary fall tones and textures for a timeless, cohesive palette that feels both natural and refined.
Soft Color Pops
Adults: Soft pastel tones like blush, dusty blue, sage green, or lavender photograph beautifully. Choose light, airy fabrics—think dresses, skirts, or tailored pants with a subtle patterned or solid shirt.
Children: Keep it sweet and simple with light tones, adding a touch of personality through accessories like a bow, headband, or soft-colored shoes.
Everyone: Pair complementary shades and gentle textures for a calm, elegant palette that feels timeless and refined.
Session Prep Tips
To help your session run smoothly, I always recommend trying on your outfits ahead of time to make sure everything fits comfortably and looks how you imagined. Take a few minutes to iron or steam your clothing so everything photographs clean and polished. If little ones are joining, it's a great idea to bring a backup outfit just in case—accidents happen! Be sure to eat beforehand so everyone arrives feeling their best, and plan to show up a few minutes early to settle in and relax. Most importantly, embrace the real, unscripted moments. Some of the most beautiful photos come from genuine laughs, cuddles, and connection.
I can't wait to photograph your sweet family!
XO - Ericka