5 Tips for Styling Boys for Family Pictures
The second hardest type of session to style is a family with lots of boys (sorry, first place easily goes to pregnant moms trying to pick an outfit for their newborn session when they have NO idea what size they’ll be but that’s a post for another day). The real challenge with styling multiple boys is how to make everyone’s outfits look interesting and not repetitive or boring.
Here are my top tips that make styling boys a breeze…
Vary pant color & fabric
Instead of having everyone in the same color pants, try to vary the shade and even fabric of pants. Throw in some tan, brown, black, or various shades of denim. Another easy way to create variation is by choosing different fabric like linen, corduroy, denim, cotton, muslin, etc. Just be sure the formality of pants is similar so it doesn’t look disjointed
2. Use different types of shirts
One mistake I see is parents choosing the same type of shirt (button up, tee, sweater, etc.). Instead, try vary the type of top. In this session, the oldest brother has on a sweater. The middle brother has a long sleeve with a patterned button up layered over it and the youngest brother has a ribbed henley.
3. Bring in pattterns
The other thing that adds visual interest to these images is that one of the sons is in a plaid shirt so that not everyone is in solids. Don’t get me wrong, all solids can be great but with three boys (four if you include dad) I love the pop of pattern that pulls in tones from mom’s dress and looks great with the fall leaves.
4. consider Overalls
Overalls are always a win in my book! While this particular family isn’t rocking any, they’re one of my favorite ways to add visual interest in a family with lots of boys. In the summer you can wear a short sleeve or even go shirtless and in the cooler months you can layer a sweater over or under.
5. Layers
Lastly, layers are a great way to add personality to an outfit and create visual diversity. This is a little more challenging in the summer when more layers = more sweating but is perfect for cooler months. Think a button up layered over tee, vest, light jacket, or a sweater over a collared shirt. Unless it’s for warmth purposes, don’t go overboard and layer everyone. Instead, keep it to one or two family members.
I hope these five tips help you feel more confident choosing outfits for your next family session. Most photographers are happy to help with styling so feel free to reach out to whoever your photographers is (hopefully me if you’re in the Boston or Central MA area) and we’ll make sure you’re feeling and look good for your session!
