Outfits are the part of family photos people stress about most, and they have a huge impact on the final result. The good news is that a few simple rules take care of most of it. Here's what we tell families before every session, with tips for each Northeast Indiana season.
The Golden Rule: Coordinate, Don't Match
Identical white shirts and jeans went out of style for a reason. Instead, pick a palette of two or three colors plus a neutral, and let each person wear a different combination. The photos feel cohesive without looking like a uniform.
An easy way to start: choose one patterned piece, usually Mom's dress or a child's outfit, and pull everyone else's colors from it.
What Photographs Best
- Solid colors and soft textures like knits, linen, denim, corduroy and flowy dresses.
- Mid-tones and muted colors like sage, rust, navy, cream, mustard and dusty blue.
- Layers like cardigans, jackets and vests, which add depth and give you a second look.
- Clothes that fit well. Make sure everything is comfortable to sit, kneel and hold kids in.
What to Avoid
- Large logos, graphic tees and characters.
- Small, tight patterns like thin stripes and tiny checks, which can create a wavy effect on camera.
- Neon colors, which reflect color onto skin.
- Head-to-toe black or bright white on everyone.
- Brand-new shoes nobody has broken in yet.
Spring
Northeast Indiana springs are green and blooming, but they can be chilly in the evenings. Light neutrals, soft pastels, blush, sage and denim all work well. Bring a light jacket for the kids that also looks good in photos.
Summer
We schedule summer sessions close to sunset for softer light and cooler temperatures. Choose breathable fabrics like linen and cotton, in cream, white-and-tan, soft blue or olive. Golden fields around Huntertown, Columbia City and the countryside look amazing with warm neutrals.
Fall
Fall is our busiest season, and peak color here usually lands in mid-to-late October. Rich tones like rust, mustard, burgundy, olive, navy and cream pair perfectly with the leaves. Sweaters, boots, and a hat or two add texture. Book early for fall. Evening slots fill up fast.
Winter
Winter is ideal for studio sessions, since everyone stays warm, and the photos are perfect for holiday cards. For studio backdrops, deep jewel tones, like emerald, burgundy and navy, or classic cream and camel look rich. If you want snowy outdoor photos, bring warm layers and plan a shorter session.
Tips for Kids
- Let kids wear something they're comfortable in, because happy kids photograph better.
- Pack snacks (not red or sticky ones), wipes, and a backup outfit for little ones.
- Skip the nap-time slot if you can.
Maternity Sessions
Fitted or flowy dresses that show the bump photograph beautifully. Stretchy fabrics are forgiving and comfortable. Partners and siblings should coordinate with Mom's outfit, not compete with it.
Ready to Book?
Lime City Media photographs families at our Fort Wayne studio and at outdoor locations throughout New Haven, Huntertown, Auburn, Kendallville, Columbia City, Huntington and Bluffton. Sessions start at $149, with edited photos delivered in 72 hours. Learn more about family, maternity and newborn photography.