Over the years we’ve learned that a little coordination and family style can go a long way. Of course, we’re not talking about matching outfits or silly hats (though Russell does love his hats!). We mean creating a cohesive family look. Colors that harmonize and compliment one one another will unify a portrait and help to produce gorgeous images.

But, Russell and Ingrid, I can’t even match my socks! How will I get my family to look good together?

No worries. We’ve put together these three simple tips to help!

 

Tip #1: Picking a Color Palette – Less is More

My favorite trick for creating a cohesive family style is to pick two core colors, and add accents.

I like to start with one neutral core color (grey, brown, beige) that will act as a base for your color palette. Then add one bright core color (blue, red, purple) that will make your family pop. After you’ve established your core colors, start to add accents that are tints and shades of those core hues.

The style sheet below:

• Neutral core color = grey
• Bright core color = blue
• Accents = light blue, slate, teal, purple grey, etc.

Tip #2: Compliment Your Landscape

Where are your portraits going to be taken? Before you choose your core colors think about how they will jive with your landscape. Beach photos look great with soft airy colors like beige, blue, or sea-foam. Whereas, an industrial portrait might look better with darker tones or a flashy pop of color.

The family below has applied the concepts in tip #1 (two core colors + accents). In addition, they’ve also chosen tones that compliment the sandy beach and olive tones of the grass.

The style sheet below:

• Neutral core color = brown
• Bright core color = purple
• Accents = lavender, blue, sand, olive, stone, etc.

Want another example? This second family was inspired by the rusty metal and aged wood of the landscape.

The style sheet below:

• Neutral core color = slate grey
• Bright core color = dusty red-orange
• Accents = beige, army green, harvest red, light grey, etc.

 

Tip #3: Tis’ the Season

Is your portrait in spring, autumn, or summer? Morning or evening? The color of the leaves, sky, and light will add new colors to your portrait. Morning light tends to be cooler adding blue and purple to the landscape. Afternoon and sunset bathes everything in a golden glow. Spring with be green, and fall may be orange. Be sure to pick a look that fits with the time of day and season.

If you’re planning a family portrait in autumn, think about how you might compliment the changing leaves with harvest colors. Earth tones and autumn browns are a great way to make sure your family looks great in an outdoor setting.

The style sheet below:

• Neutral core color = russet brown
• Bright core color = denim blue
• Accents = soft grey, chocolate, rose, peach, egg shell, etc.

If you’re planning a family portrait in summer, play off the bright flowers, blue skies, and trees of the season.

The style sheet below:

• Neutral core color = dark grey
• Bright core color = canary yellow
• Accents = pink and white

 

More Examples:

Here are some more examples to get the inspiration flowing!

The style sheet below:

• Neutral core color = tan brown
• Bright core color = warm suede
• Accents = aqua and eggshell

The style sheet below:

• Neutral core color = midnight blue
• Bright core color = bright blue
• Accents = harvest orange, crimson, brown, and light grey

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