Think about what your family was like five, ten, or even twenty years ago. You were a completely different group of people. Families are constantly evolving, growing, and changing. That’s what makes family photos so precious. Family photos are more than just pictures; they're time capsules. They allow us to pause, reflect, and remember the people we love most just as they were in that moment in time.
Topeka photographer Lindsey Wagers, of Wagers Photography, understands the value of these keepsakes. “Each family is unique, and I help to capture that spirit so they can enjoy it for years to come,” she says.
To achieve that perfect casual-but-coordinated look, Lindsey goes above and beyond. She sends out detailed style guides via email, complete with color palettes and outfit examples. “Colors are so important when editing,” she explains. “How you combine colors, textures, and patterns plays a big role in how your photos will turn out.”
With that in mind, here are her top tips for styling your next family photo shoot:
Seven Secrets to Styling Phenomenal Family Photos
- Style Mom first - then build the rest of the outfits from there.
- Choose a color palette of 3-5 colors - a mix of bold colors (burnt orange, mustard yellow, dark green, terracotta red) and earth tones (blush, ivory, sage green, khaki, dusty blue, warm grey) will blend well together and give your photos a pop.
- Incorporate one bold pattern - plaid, floral, or gingham are great, then coordinate the rest of the family's outfits with smaller patterns or solids in similar tones.
- Include different textures - lace, tweed, chambray, faux fur, wool, and courduroy add dimension and create visual flow.
- Specifically for the guys - wear something comfortable. If you have young children, you will be chasing after them, playing games, and running around. Jeans are okay, colored pants in neutrals or light earth tones are even better. Button-downs, Henleys, and even good-quality colored t-shirts work well.
- Accessorize - layering adds style and depth. Think chunky cardigans, scarves, beanies, eclectic jewelry, jean jackets, and HATS! A good wide-brimmed hat adds a polished touch, while beanies and even baseball caps on kids can be adorable.
- Consider where you will be displaying these photos - choose colors that will complement your home’s decor.
Lindsey shared a few don’ts as well:
- Don’t wear anything too tight-fitting.
- Avoid graphic tees or shirts with large logos or words.
- Skip neon colors, oversized floral prints, and bold/thick stripes.
- Don’t wear matching outfits - too much uniformity can make your photo look unnatural or dated.
The most important “don’t” Lindsey shared is don’t put off getting that family photo taken because you are concerned about how you look. “Women are the worst about this,” she says. “I’m here to tell you, being present for your family is way more important than being perfect.”
Whether you're looking for a cozy fall forest backdrop, a bohemian barefoot beach scene, or a dreamy field of prairie flowers, Lindsey will make your family photo session phenomenal.
She also offers senior, maternity, newborn, wedding sessions, and more. To learn more, visit wagersphotography.com, email Lindsey at info@wagersphotography.com, or give her a call at (785) 220-2275.
Besides having a great eye for color and composition, Lindsey also scouts out the most amazing locations for her photos. There are so many undiscovered local spots, from the Governor’s Mansion to Lake Perry. You can trust her to find the backdrop that takes your photos from Topeka to Topekahh!