What Should We Wear?
Timeless over trendy: Opt for timeless styles and colors over ultra-trendy pieces that may date the photos in the future.
The outfit choices for family photo sessions are essential, especially when you're working outdoors. The setting (beach vs. park with greenery) will impact the style and colors that will look best. Here’s some advice tailored to each scenario:
General Tips For All Locations
Coordinate, but don’t match exactly: Aim for complementary colors and styles rather than everyone wearing the exact same thing. This adds variety while still creating a cohesive look.
Avoid logos or graphic prints: Simple, solid colors or subtle patterns are ideal, as they won’t distract from the subjects and will keep the focus on the family members.
Comfort is key: Ensure everyone is comfortable and feels good in their outfits. The session will be more relaxed, and the smiles will be more natural if the family is happy with what they’re wearing.
Consider layers and accessories: Layers like jackets, cardigans, scarves, or hats can add texture and depth to your photos. Just be mindful that too many accessories can be distracting.
Avoid overly bright/neon colors: Bright, neon hues can sometimes clash with the natural environment, so it's best to stick with softer tones.
For Beach Sessions
Colors: Light, soft, and natural colors work beautifully with the beach. Think whites, creams, pale blues, soft pinks, sandy tans, and light grays. These colors will complement the natural surroundings and the ocean without competing with the scene.
Fabrics: Choose flowy, breathable fabrics that will move nicely in the breeze, such as linen, cotton, or lightweight knits. This works well for both women and men. A little movement in the clothing can help convey a more relaxed, natural feel.
Outfit Ideas:
Women: A flowy maxi dress in a pastel or neutral tone. You can add a hat or a lightweight cardigan for layering.
Men: Light-colored button-down shirts or polos with khaki or light-colored pants or shorts. Avoid heavy denim or dark clothing.
Children: Simple dresses for girls (in soft floral prints or solid pastels) and light shirts with shorts for boys. Rompers can also look cute for little ones.
Footwear: Go barefoot (it’s the beach, after all!) or wear sandals.
Avoid: Bright reds or oranges, as these can clash with the ocean and sky. Avoid dark clothing, as it can create a heavy contrast with the light, airy atmosphere of the beach.
Always bring a change of clothes for longer beach sessions, you can be 100% sure that 50% of kids are going in no matter what they are wearing. (See photo below.)
For Park Sessions (with lots of greenery)
Colors: Earth tones or muted colors that complement the greenery and natural surroundings are perfect. Olive greens, mustard yellows, soft browns, deep blues, and burgundies work well. These colors tie into the environment without overpowering it.
Fabrics: Consider fabrics that look elegant yet natural, like wool, cotton, and flannel for fall or spring sessions. Light layers work well here, too, especially in transitional seasons.
Avoid: Bright neon or too much white (which can sometimes blend too much with the sunlight or reflect in photos). Too much black or dark tones can also clash with the natural surroundings and make the photos feel heavier.
For Urban Jungle Sessions
When planning an outdoor family photo session in an urban environment like Hong Kong, here’s some advice for what families should wear:
Consider the Location and Vibe
Urban Feel: Since Hong Kong is a vibrant, bustling city with lots of tall buildings, colorful street art, and narrow alleyways, consider outfits that complement this dynamic environment. You could mix casual with slightly more polished looks for a balance of elegance and approachability.
Architectural Contrast: If you’re photographing near skyscrapers or other modern structures, neutral or muted tones can look sophisticated against the backdrop of the city’s architecture.
Nature Meets City: If you’re taking photos near parks, gardens, or the Victoria Harbour, colors that reflect the natural surroundings (like greens, blues, or earthy tones) can help tie the composition together.
Color Coordination, Not Matching
Instead of everyone wearing the exact same color, coordinate the outfits with complementary tones. Hong Kong's urban setting can handle a mix of bold colors, but sticking to a palette of 2-3 colors can avoid overwhelming the photos. Earth tones like beige, rust, or olive green can contrast well with city grays, while pastels or bold jewel tones can pop against urban landscapes.
Avoid overly bright neon colors, as they might clash with the surroundings or draw too much attention away from the family.
Comfort is Key
Footwear: Hong Kong’s urban landscape can involve a lot of walking, especially if you’re exploring areas like Central, Mong Kok, or even the streets around the MTR. Wear comfortable shoes for everyone (but make sure they look stylish!). Sneakers, loafers, or stylish boots are great options.
Avoid Overly Busy Patterns
Patterns should be subtle. Large patterns or logos can be distracting in photos, especially in a busy city environment like Hong Kong. If you want a pattern, go for something simple like stripes, small floral prints, or subtle checks that won’t compete with the urban backdrop.
Textures and Fabrics
Add variety to the photos by mixing different textures. A family member might wear a denim jacket, another could wear a cozy knit sweater, while others might go for a simple cotton dress or collared shirt. This adds interest without being distracting.
Hong Kong's humidity (depending on the time of year) can make certain fabrics uncomfortable. Opt for breathable fabrics like cotton or linen during the summer months, while wool or thicker fabrics can work during cooler seasons.
Embrace Hong Kong's Vibrant Colors
Urban Hong Kong is full of life and color – from neon signs in Mong Kok to the vibrant street markets. Feel free to pull in these tones into the family’s wardrobe. For example, a red dress could look stunning against the backdrop of neon lights or colorful street art.
7. Avoid Heavy Accessories
While accessories like hats, scarves, and jewelry can add personality, they should not overpower the image or make movement awkward. Simple jewelry and maybe one or two statement accessories (like a scarf or belt) can enhance the photos without taking attention away from the family or the environment.
8. Prepare for Movement
Kids especially will likely be running around or exploring, so choose clothing that’s not too stiff or restrictive. Allow freedom of movement so the session feels natural, especially with Hong Kong’s outdoor settings which often have stairs, ledges, or alleyways to explore.
9. Avoid Logo Overload
Clothing with large logos can date the photos quickly and take focus away from the family members themselves. Choose solid colors or subtle designs for a timeless look.
10. Hair and Grooming
Ensure everyone’s hair is styled in a way that feels natural yet tidy. If it’s windy or humid, consider using hair products to keep hair in place, especially if you're shooting near Victoria Harbour or other breezy locations.
Example Outfit Ideas:
Mom: A soft-colored blouse paired with skinny jeans and ankle boots.
Dad: A simple button-up shirt with chinos and comfortable sneakers.
Kids: A cute dress for the girls in a soft print or solid color, and for the boys, a well-fitted t-shirt or sweater with comfortable pants.
Accessories: A few minimal accessories like a wristwatch, a belt, or a delicate scarf can add flair without distracting from the family dynamic.
In Hong Kong’s diverse and exciting urban environment, choosing outfits that reflect both the vibrancy of the city and the family’s personality while keeping comfort in mind will result in a relaxed yet stylish family photo session.
