What to Wear to Your Photography Session

If you have booked a photography session, it is only natural to wonder what you should wear on the photoshoot day. Often, we get confused about what will look on us and what will make the portrait look good. If you have the same thoughts in your mind, this post is curated to help you. Here you will find some helpful tips that I always tell my clients. I hope these tips will help you prepare for your photography session.

Your outfit can make or break the mood of the final photograph, and fortunately, it is something you can control quite easily. I have compiled a list of dos and don’ts that you can refer to while putting together outfits for you and your family. Arranging your outfits according to this guide will ensure a flattering look for you and also provide you with photographs that you can treasure forever.

Nothing Can Go Wrong with White

If you are confused about which color to choose for your outfit, simply go with white. Wearing a white dress or a shirt can create a flattering look against the backdrop and make you look vivid in the photographs. It reflects light to your face and automatically enlivens the image. White outfits can create a wonderful equilibrium in the photographs and can prevent distractions.

If you are looking for family photo ideas for 5 family members, you can wear combinations of white, different shades of blue, coral, and beige to create soothing yet vibrant visual imagery. Choose the beach or woods for a family portrait backdrop, and you will get a set of wall-worthy photographs. And, if you are confused about the location, just browse “Outdoor family photoshoot near me”, and the internet will provide you will hundreds of beautiful locations in your vicinity.

The Fabric is Important Too

The fabric quality of your outfit can be very evident in the photographs. Thus, paying attention to the fabric you choose for your photography session is crucial. High-quality natural fabrics look better than cheaper synthetic materials in photographs.

Though nowadays there are various affordable cloth brands to choose from, I recommend you pick your outfit for the photoshoot from an ethical company that uses natural fabrics like cotton, linen, or silk.

If you are taking family portraits, mixing fabrics of different textures between family members can also make your photographs visually interesting.

Choose Light Pastel Shades

Color theory is a very interesting subject, something that has fascinated me ever since I learned about it in college. Through the multiple photography sessions I have done with my clients, I have grown to understand that choosing the right color for your outfit can transform your image to the ultimate level. And I am sure every bay area family photographer would back me on that.

Playing around with different colors and figuring out which goes well with what has always enthralled me. I have noticed that wearing something from the calm, muted pastel shade always looks well in photographs, especially if you want your portraits to be dreamy. These muted shades can make you look relaxed yet cheerful, and these feelings, when captured, make the portraits look charming. Creating outfits around lighter color palettes also pairs really well if you are aiming to have a couple of soft and romantic portraits with your partner.

Limit the patterns

Patterns are indeed fun, but they can be very overwhelming at times too. Loud colors and bold patterns are big “no-no” for family portraits. They can create distractions and bury the emotions you want to capture in the photographs. However, a few people wearing light patterns might look good in a large group. The pop of patterns in between a large family can create interesting visual imagery.

I am not asking you to avoid patterns altogether. If you want, you can pick outfits with smaller patterns in sober colors that won’t scream for attention. For me, “Less is the new more”. The same goes for accessories and jewelry. I recommend wearing light bracelets, a simple pendant with a chain, or small earrings. The simpler you dress, the more sophisticated your portraits are.

Coordinate Instead of Matching Your Outfits

Matching your outfits with your kids might be fun, but not when you go for a photography session. The whole family wearing the same shirt looks as cheesy as it sounds and makes your family photographs look too confusing. Rather, you can choose outfits in the same color family that do not exactly match but goes well together. For instance, blue goes well with white and beige. Or you can pick rust and corals.

Walking through the woods wearing a flowing gown sounds absurd in real life, isn’t it? But, doing just that can create a mystic impression in your portraits. I recommend my female clients wear a dress. Long and flowy ones always looks good on photos.Choose to Dress Up, ok flattering in portraits. For the men, I recommend wearing a button-down shirt, or a proper suit.

These photographs that you are investing your money and time on will go into your family albums or hang on your living room wall, and I want you to look the best in them. Thus, sometimes it is desirable that you go all out while dressing yourselves, yet pick something that looks sober and sophisticated.

And Finally, Make Sure Your Hair and Makeup are Spot On

A camera can capture even the minute details that you do not usually think of, like your hair and nails. While you get for your photo shoot, ensure your nails are well-trimmed. If you want them painted, choose a light, neutral color. In addition, your makeup in photographs usually appears duller than in real life. If you are not accustomed to doing your own makeup, taking help from a professional would be a wide discussion. If you like to do your own makeup, make sure you apply your makeup a little bolder than usual.

Your photos are meant to be enjoyed for years to come, and I want to help you look and feel your best so you can feel confident in how your photos can turn out. Always be sure to keep your location in mind when choosing your outfit, whether at a studio or in nature. If you would like your photo session to be dreamy, timeless, and meticulously curated, please click the link to learn more about family photography package Click here to Inquire

Santa Cruz Wedding Photographer: Dream Inn Hotel : Arlene and John

Yesterday was a good day for a wedding. A dream wedding venue held at the charming beach of Santa Cruz. I am honored and Im happy to share this preview slideshow held at Dream Inn hotel. A very beautiful wedding venue celebrated with family and friends of John and Arlene. Enjoy the slideshow

Thank you so much for watching. If you like the slideshow and beach wedding photos. Please check out my past work here Hawaii Destination Wedding, Half-moon Bay 25th Wedding Anniversary or explore my wedding portfolio for other stunning wedding venues here in the Bay-area

Are you in search of a photographer to capture your big day? I am a wedding and Portrait photographer based in the Bayarea, I can help you capture every moment and detail of your wedding to cherish for years to come. Contact me, and let's chat about Your Vision you want For your Wedding.

Top 9 Spots To Get Your Fall Portraits in San Francisco

Known for its iconic landmarks and picturesque outdoor views, San Francisco offers a lot of spots to get your Fall family portraits. The fall leaves, the bright sunlight, and the jovial weather make a wonderful backdrop for your photos. Here are the 10 most instagram-worthy places that can be the best photoshoot spots for your Fall family portraits. From popular locations to hidden gems of the city, we have it all.

1. The Golden Gate Bridge

We cannot start the list without the most popular and iconic landmark of San Francisco: the Golden Gate Bridge. With the scenic landscape of Baker’s beach sprawling behind the “International Orange” colored bridge, this spot can take your breath away.

With the cool blue and beige tone of the beach and the bridge as the backdrop, you can get wonderful Fall beach portraits of your family. The Golden Gate Bridge can give you Instagram-worthy clicks during sunsets on clear days.

2. The Palace of Fine Arts

If you are looking for Fall outdoor activities for families in San Francisco, you cannot afford to miss visiting the Palace of Fine Arts. Inspired by ancient Greek and Roman architecture, this monument is the epitome of pure romance.

The stunning building with its stately columns stands proud since 1915. This scenic spot will give a unique and mesmerizing backdrop to your Fall family portraits.

3. Crissy Fields

An abandoned military airfield, Crissy Fields is one of the most picturesque sites in San Francisco. With a panoramic view of the Golden Gate Bridge, it is a beautiful place to get your family portraits clicked. You will also have the benefit of having the backdrop of the Marine Headlands and the bay in your photographs.

Crissy Fields has a lot of open space, making it a popular recreation spot for locals and tourists alike. So if you are looking for fall outdoor activities for families, Crissy Fields can offer you a quiet stroll by the beach and beautiful hiking and cycling trails.

4. Clearview Orchard

Apple picking is one of the most-loved things to do in the San Francisco bay area. The Clearview orchid is a beautiful apple orchard in the Bay-area. This Watsonville orchard stays open for apple-picking every weekend from September through November. During the Fall season, this place offers a warm and soothing backdrop for your family portraits.

You can spend an entire day from 10 A.M. to 4 P.M. in the orchard to pick Fuji and Gala apples, spend quality time with your family, and get your Fall family photos done. As an added perk, you can even try Clearview’s organic local honey, squash, apple juice, and freshly-baked apple turnovers.

5. Fisherman’s Wharf

If you are new to the city, you cannot miss visiting the Fisherman’s Wharf. The Ghiradelli Square, Pier 7, and Pier 39 make this place a favorite spot for photographers. With the bright colors of the neighborhood backed by the Northern waterfront, Fisherman’s Wharf provides you with a vibrant backdrop for your fall family photographs.

In addition, you can enjoy delicious fresh seafood with your family. It is also a great spot to watch fishermen catching fish or sea lions basking in the sun. In short, Fisherman’s Wharf offers plenty of entertaining things to do in San Francisco.

6. Lake Merced Park

A short walk down the paved trails of Lake Merced Park will land you in one of the most delightful locations to take your fall family portraits. The sprawling green space and the calm, blue water of the lake will give you the perfect dreamy backdrop. With cycling and hiking trails, it is also a popular spot for tourists and cyclists.

7. Land’s End

Lands End, located near the Golden Gate bridge, is one of the most underrated spots. It features a rocky shoreline that makes a great backdrop for your family portraits. You will also find plenty of wooded areas to set up for a fall photoshoot. The tall trees, the orange carpet created by the fallen leaves, and a good view of the Golden Gate Bridge will make your family portrait a timeless frame.

8. Painted Ladies

With houses painted in bright colors, the Painted Ladies makes for one of the most lively backdrops for your family photographs. With city skyscrapers behind the houses, Painted ladies is situated just alongside the renowned Golden Gate Bridge. Its soothing surroundings provide the perfect spot for relaxing and enjoying a sunny Fall day with your family.

9. The Dolores Park

Named after Mission Dolores (the oldest building in San Francisco), Dolores Park is a beautiful stretch of greenery. Backed by an entire hillside, this spot offers you a magnificent view of the city of San Francisco. Not only is this park a popular recreation place, but it is also one of the best locations to get your fall family photos. Just pick a sunny day, enjoy a relaxing day with your loved ones and get your memories taken in front of the skyline of the city. You can also visit the Mexican food joints just alongside this beautiful park.

San Francisco is a great city to visit during the autumn season. With hundreds of tourist spots to visit and events to attend, the city will keep you entertained throughout the fall. With beaches and parks, and of course, the Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco is home to numerous picture-worthy spots. So, whether you are a resident of the city or just a visitor, don’t forget to get your family photo taken in San Francisco during the Fall season.

Hi my name is Christian Alcazaren, a San Francisco photographer for Wedding and Family Lifestyle. I love this city, Let me take you to some of the hidden photo-spots here in San Francisco. I would love to see you go home with wonderful memories to look back and think about the amazing moments you spent here in San Francisco with your love ones

The Only Fall Style Guide You Need for 2022!

What to wear for Instagrammable Fall Family Photos

Fall, or Autumn, is a wonderful time to spend outdoors. This is the time when the warmth of the previous summer still lurks, and the cool breeze of the next summer lets you know it's not too far. Nature has also changed its color to a picturesque warmer tone of earthy brown, yellows, and orange.

If you are planning to visit San Francisco, autumn is one of the best times to visit the city with your family. There are tons of things to do in San Francisco with kids around this time. So while you might have to carry scarves and light sweaters, you can enjoy bright sunny days too.

Often, people choose the fall season to get their family portraits clicked. The soft light, the earthy warmth, and the lovely colors of the leaves make a beautiful backdrop for the picture. If you, too, are planning to get your family photographs done by a professional photographer in the Fall season, you might wonder what you and your family members should wear for the photoshoot.

This Fall Style Guide is specially curated for you to make sure you and your family look their best in their Fall Family Photographs.

How to Choose Outfits For Fall Family Photo Shoots?Investing in a Fall Family Photoshoot makes it natural to get concerned about your outfits. Style experts suggest choosing outfits that would complement the season. Here are a few basic principles you should keep in mind when you open the cupboard to select your outfits.

• Dress for your environment.

• Keep the weather in mind.

• Build your outfit around the same color palette.

• Choose clothes with different layers and textures.

• Avoid clothes that have bold pictures or slogans on them.

• Wear well-fitting clothes.

Color Palette for Charming Autumn Family Portraits:

Springs and summers are colorful and bright seasons. Thus, photographers recommend wearing neutral shades during this time. On the other hand, the Fall season can be very welcoming to a wide range of color palettes.

Style experts recommend choosing at least 3-4 complementary colors to base your family’s outfits on. Of course, this does not mean all family members would wear the same color clothing. Instead, we must aim to complement each other’s apparel.

A soft palette with pastel shades can work wonderfully for your fall photoshoot. You can choose from creams, dusty pinks, powder blue, rust, and even soft brown colors for your outfits. If you prefer deeper colors, you can opt for Prussian blue, mustard yellow, and cherry red.

What Colors Should You Avoid?

Now that we have an idea about the colors we should look for, we need to understand what colors we need to avoid. Black is a big no-no around this time of year. Also, bright, neon-colored outfits clash with the soft autumn backdrop and make you look washed out in the photographs.

If you are planning on shopping for new outfits for the shoot, sorting the perfect complementary colors for your family can be one of the fun things to do in San Francisco with kids.

A Few More Tips:

1. Plan Ahead

Once you have booked your photoshoot session, start planning the shooting location, outfits, and accessories you want to use. You surely don’t want your kids to seem shabby in the photographs. So pick the clothes that fit your kids the best. Keep them aside to prevent them from getting soiled. If needed, get your outfits dry cleaned well before the planned shoot day. Also, set your accessories and jewelry aside that you are going to wear for the photoshoot.

Though most of us try to prepare our outfits beforehand, we often forget about footwear. Deciding on your shoes in advance will help you avoid confusion on the photoshoot day. You can even book an appointment in the Spas in San Francisco a day before to prepare for the photoshoot.

2. Choose Your Outfits According to The Location

Keep the location in mind when you choose outfits for your family. If you have selected a park or wood for the photo shoot, avoid wearing too many orange and brown outfits, as they will camouflage with the leaves and trees.

If you are having a beach photoshoot, try wearing darker outfits that will appear more prominent against the backdrop of sand and water. Cooler shades of blue, green, beige and a little pop of coral will transform the look of the final image.

You can get your photos clicked in a pumpkin patch. The orange pumpkins will give a vibrant backdrop to your portraits. Denim jeans or jackets will look awesome against the background. A combination of chunky knits, a little pop of color, and denim blue will make the most wall-worthy portraits.

3. Be Prepared for Any Temperature

Autumn can be a tricky time to dress. The bright sun outside might urge you to wear something light, whereas the chilly winds might make you wear a sweater or a scarf. So, when your family is getting ready for the photo shoot, make sure you stay prepared for both.

Curate a set of outfits for your family members that can be complemented with a light coat or a sweater so that you can just put them on when the temperature drops. When the weather is warm enough, you can remove your coats and get a sharper and cleaner look.

4. Coordinate, Don’t Match

Your family portraits will hopefully grace the walls of your living room for years to come. Wearing outfits of the same color palette will give the photograph a more balanced look. However, wearing outfits of the same color can spoil the vibe of the final image. The key is to coordinate your family’s outfits so that you complement each other in the portrait.

5. Say No To Characters

Your kids may love their Captain America shirt but keep it away for the family photoshoot. Large, bold characters on the outfits can seem distracting. Instead, try solid-colored shirts, plaids, or light motifs.

8. Keep your Home Decor in Mind

If you plan to hang your family photographs in your living room, keeping your home decor in mind when picking outfits is crucial. The color scheme of your house can either make the photos eye-catching or wash them out.

You can try wearing contrasting colors for the family portrait if you have dark-colored walls. Or, if you have light-colored walls, you can wear denim and dark-colored coats and scarves. It will help the family photographs look lively and prominent.

9. Be Comfortable

We know you want everyone to look their best in the family photograph. You will look your best if you are comfortable with what you are wearing. If you love wearing dresses, don’t try to squeeze into a pair of jeans.

Also, choose your kid’s outfit according to their comfort. If you are kids are comfortable in jeans or skirts, let them wear those. Forcing them to wear something they do not like will make them uncomfortable, and the discomfort will be evident in the photos.

If you have a little baby, make sure you put them in something snug and cozy. Putting them in prickly clothing can make them fussy. And, you surely do not want that on the photoshoot day.

10. Do Not Forget to Add Accessories

Accessories can not only help add a different edge to your outfit but they can also be used as little props in the portraits. Your family photo is not just about smiling faces; it is also about projecting who you are as a family.

For example, adding a stylish hat or necklace for your baby to play with can give your family portrait a natural, heartwarming look. Vibrant scarves and mufflers can also add a fun dimension to the images. The possibilities are endless.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. How should I dress for Fall portraits?

Your fall photographs will have a lot of green, orange, red, and yellow colors in the background, ideally. You would have to curate an outfit that will complement the Fall foliage.

Typically, pure white and black do not go well with the vibrant background. Instead, you can try warmer shades like rust, denim blue, and brown. If you still want to wear black, you can layer it with vibrant-colored coats, cardigans, and scarves.

2. How many outfits do I need for a photoshoot?

Usually, a Fall Family/couple photography session lasts for about 30-60 minutes. We recommend setting aside at least 2-3 outfits that coordinate with different backgrounds. An assortment of outfits will ensure a lot of variety in your family portraits.

3. What should I pack for the photoshoot?

Here are a few things you should consider packing for the photoshoot.

1. A change of clothes

Getting all your photos clicked in the same outfit will make your family album look monotonous. A change of clothes will refresh the frame and add charm to your family album. Make sure the clothes are comfortable.

It is natural for most people to feel a little self-conscious in front of the camera. A set of comfortable clothes can go a long way in bringing out a natural expression in the portraits. Avoid too much detailing in your outfits to ensure your faces are at the center of attraction.

2. Hairbrush or comb

The breeze can mess with your hair if you are shooting in the park or on a hiking trail. Thus, it is wise to bring a hairbrush and clips to fix your hair before taking a photograph. It will make you look clean and sharp.

3. Makeup

Light makeup can help you look refreshed in portraits. We recommend carrying a compact powder and lip gloss to touch up your face before the shoot. The powder will help get rid of the oily shine of the face and give you a matte look. A swipe of lipgloss will liven up your face.

4. Little refreshments

Family photoshoots can be time-taking. We recommend you carry a bottle of water and a few light edibles.

Final Thoughts!

Autumn can be a wonderful time to get your family photographs clicked. The Fall foliage will give you a lively backdrop for the portraits. However, the outfits you wear for the picture are also as important as the backdrop. We hope this style guide has helped you understand what to wear for your Fall family portraits.

I am a San Francisco photographer who specializes in Family Lifestyle Portraiture. Making timeless and Authentic portraiture is always my goal in capturing your family’s milestone. Let’’s chat and start making beautiful print-worthy images . Please Click the link to learn more

Bridal Detail Checklist for Your Wedding Day

On your wedding day, you already have enough on your plate. The entire day can feel like a whirlwind, and with everyone running around, it can be hard to keep up and ensure you keep your thoughts straight. You may be sure you have everything in order, but you will soon find that checklists are your best friend when putting together the biggest day of your life. 

Your checklist will include everything you need to help avoid last-minute panic and last-minute runs to the store. To ensure nothing is overlooked, you’ll want to put everything together weeks prior to your wedding day. This bridal detail checklist for your wedding day is just the one to keep you on task with your eyes on the prize and ensure everyone makes it through the day.

Bridal Suite Preparations – You will spend a lot of time getting ready with your bridal party. Be sure to bring tissue, hand wipes, a portable speaker, and snacks and drinks.

Bring a Comfortable Pair of Flats for the Reception – Wearing heels all day can end up causing you discomfort and even pain. You want to be in peak condition for dancing, so bring your favorite flats so you can dance the night away.

Wedding Outfit – This one may seem obvious, but you don’t want to forget a single detail. It even deserves its own checklist within a checklist. Bring:

• Your wedding dress

• Veil and hair accessories

• Lingerie

• Garters

• Jewelry

• Something new, something borrowed, and something blue

• Your engagement ring

A Full Emergency Repair Kit – Even the best-laid plans can go awry. Prepare and bring an emergency repair kit for any repair that may be needed. This is probably the most essential kit you’ll need, so you will want to bring:

• A sewing kit

• Double-sided tape

• Breath mints and gum

• Tampons

• Scissors

• Safety pins

• Nail file and nail polish that matches your nail color

• Aspirin and antacids

• Bandages

• Tide-To-Go pen

Remind the Wedding Party to Bring a Bag – Everyone will be arriving in normal attire and changing into their formal clothing. They will want something to store their stuff and for their gifts. Check out What Bridesmaids Should Pack with Them for the Wedding for more information on what your wedding party should bring!

Put Together a Wedding Day Bag – Your wedding day bag is one of the more essential preparations on your wedding day. It will include your rings, vows, marriage license, tips for your vendors, and extra copies of your checklists.

Bring Charged Phones and Portable Charges – Your cell phones will be essential for taking your own photos or if you need to make important calls to vendors. A charged phone can ensure you don’t have to worry about your phone dying mid-day. 

Having a detailed checklist of everything you may need on the day of your wedding may seem like an insignificant detail. It can be just the thing to save the day and ensure every detail is perfect. With a bridal detail checklist, you get to have fun and keep your focus on what this day is really about. 

Capturing your wedding moments is just as important as the day itself. You want to have amazing photos to look back on as you celebrate anniversaries and show off to friends and family. As a bay area wedding photographer, I can help you capture your special day and create memories to last a lifetime. Contact me and let’s talk about your wedding day!