I wasn't thrilled with our last family photo. Cue studio with a mustard draped background and our family all lined up in rows trying to smile for the camera while holding still. That might be someone's jar of jam, but it isn't mine.
Perhaps it's my past as wedding planner, but photography is uber important, and good photography is priceless. I am certainly more a fan of the photojournalistic approach, so I am happy we are the ones planning this photo and can have a bit more say.
I know we will still get a traditional family portrait taken, but I'm most looking forward to the candid shots. The kind where someone is laughing for real and you can just feel their happiness oozing out of them from a single photo. Those are the special ones.
Anyways, this post is more about "what to wear for a large group photo" then it is about anything else, so I'll stop the chatter and try and cut to the chase.
I am not a fan of the matchy matchy. We've done it before, and I'm sure you have too. Everyone in jeans or khakis? Check. White shirts? Check. Why? Who knows.
I'm sure this will be met with some controversy, including in my family, but I just don't get it. It looks ....cheesy. Unoriginal. All the families blend together. No one's personality or individuality shines through.
What other options are there, you may ask?
Well, how about plaids, sweaters, denim, navy and grey? Still looks cohesive, but so much more personality.
How about a combo of neutrals? Black, white and grey tops, choose your own bottoms. Looks so much more natural without being clashy.
And if you really really want to match to a certain degree (which I totally get), why not choose a colour family and stick to that. Ditch the khakis and white shirt, and have everyone dress in one colour (and allow various shades for even more visual interest). This one is done just right.
And if Tommy is your uncle, and your family is incredibly eclectic and cool, then please consider this. I will love you for it.
Any other great suggestions for family photos? Please share!
xo J