Style Guide

Wardrobe Styling Tips for Your Session with SBP

Choosing what to wear for your photo session can feel overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to be! Whether we’re shooting indoors or outside, I’m here to guide you toward wardrobe choices that feel like you, photograph beautifully, and help tell your family’s story with warmth and style.

  • Indoor sessions are intimate and cozy—your wardrobe should reflect that same energy.

    Think soft, light, and timeless.
    Stick with light neutrals like creamy whites, gentle grays, and delicate pastels. These shades create a clean, bright look that feels both modern and classic, making your home feel inviting and your photos feel warm.

    Texture is everything.
    Chunky knit blankets, soft flowing dresses, cozy cardigans—textures bring dimension and richness to indoor photos. Don’t be afraid to mix textures for added interest.

    Layers and accessories welcome.
    Adding light layers, like an open cardigan or scarf, adds movement and a little polish. Most importantly: wear something that makes you feel confident and comfortable.

    Best choices:

    • Creams, whites, oatmeal, sand, soft pastels

    • Light denim + whites

    • Simple textures (knits, linen, gauze)

    • Small or subtle patterns—just keep the overall palette light

    Avoid:

    • Dark and bold colors (they can look extra contrasty against the white studio)

    • Busy, multicolored patterns

    • Large logos

    Styling Tips:

    • Coordinate, don’t match—keep everyone in the same soft color family

    • Bare feet look great in the studio

    • If bringing multiple outfits, keep them simple and neutral so the focus stays on connection and expression

  • Outdoor sessions are playful and full of movement—your outfit should be functional and beautiful.

    Dress for the weather and the activity.
    We might be chasing your toddler through a field or strolling by a lake, so think about what allows you to move freely. If it’s cool out, embrace stylish layers like jackets or sweaters. For warmer days, breathable fabrics are your best friend.

    Choose colors that complement the environment.
    In grassy fields or wooded areas, avoid deep greens or dark tones that blend in. Instead, opt for lighter shades that pop against natural backgrounds—think soft earth tones, pastels, and warm neutrals.

    Skip the short dresses if you’re planning to play!
    Movement is a big part of outdoor sessions, especially with little ones, so wear something that keeps you comfy and confident while moving.

    The Magic of Layers

    Layers are one of my favorite ways to elevate your photos. Even if only one or two people in your group are wearing layered outfits, they’ll add movement, texture, and visual interest. A denim jacket here, a flowy kimono there—it all contributes to a more dynamic, storytelling image.

    Texture Tips

    Want to take your session wardrobe to the next level? Mix and match textures! Think:

    • Denim + lace

    • Linen + knit

    • Embroidery + silk

    • Fitted + flowy pieces

    This thoughtful contrast adds richness and character to your images.

    Pattern Play

    Patterns can be an amazing way to bring energy and personality into your session—especially outdoors. Use them to break up solid color blocks and add visual variety. A few tips:

    • Mix scales: pair a large floral with a smaller gingham or stripe

    • Stick to 1–2 patterned pieces and keep the rest of the group in coordinating solids

    • Stripes, florals, gingham, and plaid are all great options

    • Try to stay away from the small patterned golf shirts.

    Patterns are especially fun for showcasing a child’s playful personality!

    Coordinating, Not Matching

    Here’s the golden rule: don’t match—coordinate.

    Choose a color palette of 3–4 complementary tones and build outfits around that. Avoid dressing all the boys in denim pants or putting every girl in the same exact dress. Instead, think of your group as a beautiful, balanced mix that flows naturally together.

    Bonus tip: Always chat with me about your location! Certain backdrops pair best with certain tones, and I’m happy to help you narrow down your wardrobe to what will look amazing in your setting.

    If you ever need a second opinion or want to share outfit options before your session, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m always happy to help you style your story.

  • For newborns, comfort is everything—for baby and for you. Your photography style is warm, soft, and emotive, so neutral clothing lets the details and connection shine.

    For Baby:

    • Swaddles photograph best—neutrals, ribbed textures, soft knits

    • No need for layers under the swaddle (the studio is temperature-controlled)

    • Bring a couple of swaddle options if you'd like variety

    • If your baby runs hot, we can adjust clothing once you're here

    For Mom:

    • Loose-fitting, long dresses are most flattering & comfortable

    • Soft neutrals photograph best and keep the images timeless

    • Stay away from anything tight around the midsection

    • Choose sleeves if you want a softer look; tanks or strappy dresses add a modern feel

    • Avoid bras with texture or thick straps under thin fabrics

    For Partner + Siblings:

    • Light neutrals again—stone, cream, beige, haze blue

    • Simple, comfortable pieces (henleys, linen shirts, soft tees)

    • For toddlers: barefoot, neutrals, simple textures

Overall Tips:

1. Texture > Color

Because my editing is warm and contrasty, texture adds depth without overwhelming the photo. Great options:

  • Ribbed knits

  • Lace

  • Linen

  • Waffle knits

  • Gauze fabrics

2. Avoid Stark Whites with Heavy Patterns

Soft white works perfectly—but bright optic white + bold pattern can reflect light strongly and distract.

3. Movement Photographs Beautifully

Maxi dresses, flowy fabrics, and pieces with drape help create motion and add softness—especially for newborn and maternity.

4. Jewelry & Details

Minimal, timeless jewelry looks best. Recommend:

  • Simple gold hoops

  • Delicate necklaces

  • No smartwatches or rubber wristbands

5. Hair + Grooming

  • Soft curls or brushed/loose hair for moms

  • Natural beards or light grooming for dads

  • For newborns: don’t worry about flaky skin or redness—your edits handle this naturally

6. Shoes (or None!)

  • Studio + newborn: barefoot is best

  • Outdoors: avoid athletic shoes unless intentionally styled

Other Tips to Prep for Your Session:

  • Lumify is AMAZING for bright white eyes - great for the parents.

  • Try to make sure your nail polish is not chipped - either nails completely done, or no nail polish at all

  • Take off your Apple watches and your hair bands

  • Do not keep anything in your front pockets - either bring a purse for items or put in your back pocket

  • Think about sitting pictures and don’t wear anything too short

  • Think about little girls and wearing something underneath dresses or skirts for full coverage

  • Don’t forget diaper changes and burp clothes if needed

  • If you’re concerned with kids getting dirty before hand, change them right when you arrive at your session.

  • If you are bringing your dog, think about a bow or a cute bandana to match the rest of the family

  • If you’re interested in getting your hair or make up done before the session, let know! I have a few HMU artists that I can connect you with!

Do you want personalized style help from an expert?!

Hate stressing over outfits? Let Styled by Meg T handle it!

Her process is SO easy. Start by filling out a quick style questionairre, then Meg will create a personalized style board for you and your family with shoppable links to all the clothing items! Bonus - Mom gets 3 options :). The boards will not only suit your aesthetic, they’ll be crafted with our photoshoot and location in mind.

Pricing starts at $100 for a family of 4 + $15 per extra person.

Make sure to do this as soon as you book, so you can get your items in before the session!

*Photo by Joanna Morris Photo

START HERE!
A couple lovingly holding a newborn baby wrapped in a blanket, with the father kissing the baby's head.

The clothes and the colors you select for your session, are important.

Let me help you shop! Shopping is a favorite pastime of mine, I’m happy to assist! Below are some notes and suggestions as to what I feel photographs best for my sessions. I’ve also added my LIKEtoKNOWit collages for some visuals, and you can even purchase from the links. Feel free to text or email me ideas of what you’re thinking of wearing and I can help!

CHECK OUT SBP LTK