I know that one of the biggest stresses is usually “WHAT TO WEAR?” so I wanted to send along a few tips from experience of how to pick the perfect outfits. So here are some tips!

1. Be mindful of your pet's collar and it's appearance. Remove any undesirable tags. A fun collar for your family portrait is a win! Please bring a newer leash to keep your pet safe during our session. The leash will sometimes be removed during post processing but with family sessions it may not make sense to remove it so it is a good idea to have a nicer one.

2. Think about YOUR feet! You’re going to be walking around and your shoes will probably show so wear something newish but comfortable. It is best to stay away from athletic shoes. Boots are always fun! So just like the outfit choice, make sure your shoes are something you’re comfortable in! With dogs in the portraits it is always fun to include a shot with people feet and the pup in all their glory.

3. Consider the location and what is the best attire. Out here in west/central Texas, it is best to wear closed toe and sturdy shoes if we have an outdoor session. Pants are usually a good idea too. We have lots of rocks and sharp plants out here! Please let me know if some people are planning to wear shorts or dresses and I can choose a location accordingly.

4. Complement each other....Don’t match, Complimentary, tones is the best way to go! Better yet if someone wears an accent color on a small part of their body and the other is wearing that color. Win! Wearing the same shade is also a great place to start!

5. Dress the same scale. Casual, dressy

6. Dress for the weather and have a backup plan! If it’s a spring session but it’s going to be 40 degrees then have a backup for your spring dress!

7. Don’t be afraid of simple patterns! I wouldn’t all wear a pattern, but I really love portraits where there are some patterns and some solids! Better yet if the solid color coordinates with a color in the pattern!

Some colors I love and work well in portraits are earth tones.

Warm and cozy neutrals like beige and soft terracotta. Lighter tones contrast with dark fur, while warm neutrals blend beautifully with golden or brown coats.

Best For: Fall or rustic settings, warm golden hour light

Pets: Works well with dogs of any fur color—lighter tones contrast with dark fur, while warm neutrals blend beautifully with golden or brown coats.

Nature inspired greens and browns like olive green, chestnut brown, sage and walnut.

Best For: Wooded areas, farm sessions, or lush landscapes

Pets: Complements golden, brown, or black-furred dogs; contrasts nicely with white coats

Sand, burnt sienna, muted mustard.

Best For: Sunlit open fields, desert backdrops, boho-styled shoots

Pets: Ideal for golden retrievers, Aussies, and other warm-toned fur colors.

Classic cool neutrals like light gray, mushroom, dusty blue.

Best For: Beach sessions, misty mornings, winter shoots

Pets: Pairs beautifully with black, gray, or white-coated dogs. I have a wonderful grey backdrop perfect for these colors.

Autumn inspired palette like rust, mustard, deep red, cocoa or olive.

Best For: Fall foliage, cozy family sessions

Pets: Complements warm-colored fur, but can contrast beautifully with cool-toned dogs

8. Dress it up with layers and jewelry! Scarves, multiple clothing layers, jewelry, hats! Maybe even a little accent for your pet. They all can really liven up pictures. Just add an accent with a scarf- something you can take on and off! This also helps with the weather situation and if you have any insecurities they can cover them up! Keep in mind the color palette!

9. Be yourself. The worst thing would be looking at your pictures and looking unrecognizable because you dressed up too much! (If you’re not one to dress up often! Also, be sure to wear things that flatter your body type and are comfortable to move around in!

I hope these tips will help prepare you for your session!

I am happy to give you feedback if you’re really struggling, feel free to send me pictures! Happy to help in any way I can, just ask!