styling tips

Make your Christmas Mini Session feel effortless, cozy, and beautifully coordinated. Below are professional tips for planning outfits that look timeless, flattering, and festive—no matter which set you're using. These sessions are quick and full of joy, so preparation helps everyone feel relaxed and confident!

1️⃣ Choose a Color Palette

Select 2–3 main colors and mix coordinating tones for depth. Choose a color from the studio set - green, red, and white. Or, stick with classic neutrals and earth tones!  

Classic & Elegant: cream, gold, soft taupe, deep green, navy
Modern & Clean: white, gray/silver, evergreen
Cozy & Festive: red, ivory, plaid, and forest green accents

Avoid everyone wearing the exact same shade; aim for coordination, not matching. Choose outfits that complement each other but still allow personalities to shine.

2️⃣ Add Texture & Layers

Texture photographs beautifully — think cable-knit sweaters, velvet dresses, linens, or wool coats.
Layers like cardigans, vests, or cozy scarves add warmth and depth to your images without overcomplicating the look. Textures and layers make studio lighting look richer and more dimensional.

3️⃣ Comfort 

Wear what feels good! Comfortable, well-fitted clothes help kids (and parents) relax naturally.
Avoid large logos, neon colors, or overly trendy pieces that can distract or date your photos.Keep patterns simple!
Don’t forget shoes and socks or slippers — they will show in photos!

4️⃣ Subtle Holiday Touches

Add a festive hint without going overboard. Try: a plaid scarf or bow, gold jewelry or metallic accents, a velvet blazer or dress, matching knit hats or neutral beanies

Small, tasteful touches make your photos feel seasonal yet timeless — perfect for holiday cards and gifts.

5️⃣ Family Coordination Tips

Start with one outfit — usually mom’s or the boldest color piece — and build everyone else’s look around it.
Balance textures and tones across the group. Some examples:

🎄 Mom in emerald green dress → Dad in tan sweater → Kids in cream and gold
❤️ Mom in red plaid → Partner in gray → Kids in ivory knits

Aim for variety and balance — not everyone needs to wear red or green. Think “cozy and cohesive,” not “matching uniforms.”\

6️⃣ Pre-Session Checklist ✅

✔️ Choose and try on outfits 2–3 days before
✔️ Lay everything out together to confirm the palette works
(feel free to send me photos of it laid out and I can send tips)
✔️ Coordinate shoes, socks, and accessories
✔️ Bring one backup outfit for little ones (just in case!)
✔️ Pack a small brush, wipes, and a lint roller 
✔️ Arrive 5–10 minutes early and relax — the goal is connection, not perfection