What to Wear for Your Christmas Mini Sessions with Elizabeth Lang Photography in Cloverdale
The holiday season is a time to celebrate family, warmth, and togetherness—and what better way to capture these moments than with a Christmas mini session at Elizabeth Lang Photography? Set in a cozy, festive studio in Cloverdale, just outside Vancouver, my Christmas mini sessions offer the perfect backdrop to preserve your family memories for years to come. But before you step in front of the camera, let's talk about what to wear to ensure your photos look as wonderful as your holiday spirit!
1. Dress Up: Go for Formal, Not Casual
The holidays are the perfect time to dress up, so opt for outfits that are a little more formal than your everyday clothes. Think elegant dresses, tailored coats, or sharp button-down shirts for a classic look that stands the test of time. This is your opportunity to elevate your family’s look with festive touches that feel special and polished. Whether it’s a velvet dress for the girls or a suit for dad, formal attire will add a festive and timeless charm to your photos, giving them that extra holiday magic.
That being said, in my preference, I love to see families dressed up for the season, but if you prefer something more relaxed, you’re absolutely welcome to wear cozy holiday PJs for a laid-back, fun session! Pajamas add a playful and intimate touch to family portraits, and the holiday season is all about making memories, so the choice is entirely yours.
2. Play with Textures
When it comes to creating a rich and festive look, textures make all the difference. Incorporate fabrics like velvet, wool, lace, and silk to add depth and interest to your family’s outfits. A velvet dress or blazer brings a luxurious feel, while a wool sweater or lace detailing can create a cozy and timeless atmosphere. These textures will not only photograph beautifully but also give a warm, seasonal touch that’s perfect for the holiday setting.
3. Avoid Loud Patterns
While patterns can be fun, it’s best to avoid overly bold, busy prints that might distract from the central focus of your photos: your family. Stick to subtle, timeless patterns like plaids, soft florals, or simple textures. This ensures the attention stays on your family and the beautiful natural backdrop, without being overwhelmed by distracting prints. Solid colors, rich jewel tones, and classic neutrals like navy, burgundy, and forest green are always a safe bet for a festive, elegant look.
4. Layer Up for Extra Style and Warmth
Christmas mini sessions are perfect for adding stylish layers. Consider incorporating a chic cardigan, wool overcoat, or stylish scarf to add some warmth to your look while maintaining a polished appearance. Layers not only provide comfort but also allow you to adjust your look throughout the session. A cozy sweater underneath a tailored coat or a soft petticoat under a dress adds flair and depth, making your family photos extra special.
5. Accessorize for the Season
Accessories are an easy way to add personality and holiday spirit to your outfit. Consider adding a few festive accessories such as a knitted toque, a soft scarf, or mittens. A beautiful wool overcoat, or even a classic plaid scarf, can also enhance your look. For little ones, a cute wool hat or a colorful scarf adds a playful touch. Moms might opt for a cozy shawl or a statement necklace to elevate their ensemble. Accessories add texture and interest, ensuring your family looks perfectly festive for your photos.
6. Shoes Matter Too
When it comes to footwear, make sure everyone’s shoes complement the formality of the outfit while keeping comfort in mind. Leather boots, dress shoes, or heeled boots are all great choices for a polished, wintery look. For kids, a cute pair of boots or dress shoes will do the trick—just make sure they’re easy to walk in! Choose shoes that work well with your outfits and make sure to bring a clean, dry pair of coordinating shoes in a bag to change into for the session. This will help keep everyone comfortable and your shoes pristine for the photoshoot!
7. The Power of Holiday Colors
For Christmas photos, certain colors just work wonders. Neutrals, deep reds, rich golds, and deep greens are classic, timeless choices that always look stunning in holiday photos. These colors evoke the warmth and spirit of the season, making them perfect for creating a festive atmosphere. Whether you choose a deep red velvet dress, a forest green sweater, or a cozy gold scarf, these shades will complement the holiday setting beautifully and ensure your family portraits radiate Christmas cheer.
Final Thoughts
Christmas mini sessions with Elizabeth Lang Photography offer the perfect opportunity to dress up and create memories in a stunning holiday setting. By selecting formal, textured outfits, adding layers and accessories, avoiding loud patterns, and choosing those classic holiday colors, you’ll ensure your family looks stylish, comfortable, and festive for your photoshoot. The right clothing choices will not only elevate the beauty of your family portraits but also create lasting memories of your family’s love and togetherness during the holiday season.
I can’t wait to see how your family shines in front of the camera this holiday season! Ready to book your Christmas mini session? Get in touch with me today to secure your spot and start planning your outfits for a holiday photoshoot you’ll cherish for years to come.