Clothing Guide for Holiday Mini Sessions
What to wear for your tree farms minis…
The holiday season brings many traditions, and one of the most magical is a photo session at a Christmas tree farm. These photos capture the joy, warmth, and excitement of the season, making them perfect for family portraits, holiday cards, or simply to cherish the festive moments. But planning your outfits for these pictures is essential to get perfect, timeless images.
1. Layers
Layering is the key to both staying warm and cooling off…you can easily take layers off if you’re warm or add them if you’re cold. They also look stylish in holiday photos. The weather can be chilly in November, so you’ll want to feel comfortable without compromising on style. Here are a few layering ideas:
Sweaters: Chunky knit sweaters, turtlenecks, or cable-knit designs add texture and warmth to your look. Think festive but neutral colors like ivory, maroon, forest green, or deep navy.
Jackets: A classic wool peacoat, quilted jacket, or even a trendy shearling-lined coat can complete your outfit. Opt for colors that complement the season, such as camel, olive, or even plaid.
Scarves & Hats: Add accessories like a plaid or knit scarf, beanie, or earmuffs to elevate your style. These pieces are both functional and fashionable, and they add visual interest to your photos.
2. Coordinate Your Colors and Patterns
For group photos, color coordination is essential. You don’t need to match (in fact, I prefer I don’t), but sticking to a cohesive color palette helps tie the whole group together. Think complimentary colors, not matching. Consider these festive combinations:
Earthy Neutrals: Shades of beige, taupe, cream, and soft browns paired with pops of green or red create a natural and cozy look that blends beautifully with the tree farm setting.
Classic Reds and Greens: If you’re feeling more traditional, red and green outfits scream Christmas cheer. To avoid being too bold, mix in some neutrals like gray, white, or tan to tone down the vibrant colors.
Cool Winter Hues: Soft blues, grays, and whites can also work well against the green backdrop of the trees. These colors evoke a wintry, peaceful atmosphere, perfect for serene holiday photos.
When using patterns, subtlety is key. A few people in plaid, flannel, or fair isle sweaters can look festive, but balance them with solid colors to avoid clashing or overwhelming the photo.
3. Choose Timeless Pieces Over Trendy Fashion
The goal of your tree farm photos is to create lasting memories, so it’s best to choose outfits that are timeless rather than trendy. Stick to classic pieces that won’t look dated in a few years when you look back at your photos. Here are some ideas:
Denim & Wool: A pair of well-fitted jeans or wool trousers paired with boots is a timeless choice for men and women alike.
Knit Dresses or Skirts: Women and girls can wear cozy knit dresses or skirts, paired with tights or leggings to keep warm.
Simple Footwear: Choose practical yet stylish footwear like ankle boots, leather boots, or even fur-lined boots. Avoid flashy or overly trendy shoes that might distract from the overall look.
4. Festive Accessories for Extra Charm
The holiday season is all about the little details, so don’t be afraid to add some festive accessories to your outfit. Here are some ideas:
Holiday Pins or Brooches: A holiday-themed brooch or pin can add a subtle festive touch to a coat or sweater if that’s your style.
Matching Pajamas for Kids: If your photoshoot is more playful, you can consider dressing the kids (or the whole family!) in matching holiday pajamas. This works especially well if you want a fun, whimsical photo series.
Blankets & Props: Consider bringing a festive blanket, a thermos of hot cocoa, or even some holiday props like string lights or wreaths to add warmth and character to your photos. We won’t have a lot of time to set up, so make sure it can be set up quickly and with minimal effort.
5. Comfort is Key
While looking your best is important, comfort should be a priority. The cold can make everyone a little cranky, especially young kids. Make sure to:
Dress in layers to adapt to the temperature.
Choose non-restrictive clothing that allows for natural movement and interaction.
Bring extra gloves, hats, and coats for in-between shots to keep everyone warm in case it’s cold.
6. Consider the Backdrop
The Christmas tree farm itself is a beautiful, natural backdrop. Keep in mind that your outfits will complement this setting. Having everyone in dark green may cause you to blend into the rich green of the trees. Instead, aim for outfits that enhance the rustic, earthy feel of the farm and pops of color to stand out.
7. Dress for Your Personality
Above all, make sure your outfits reflect your family’s personality and style. Whether you go for rustic, cozy and casual, or a more elegant holiday look, the best photos are the ones where everyone feels comfortable and confident. Don’t hesitate to express your unique holiday style through your wardrobe.
Planning the perfect outfits for holiday photos doesn’t have to be complicated. Stick with cozy layers, choose a cohesive color palette, and don’t forget those personal touches that make your family photos truly special. By focusing on comfort and classic styles, you’ll ensure that your photos will stand the test of time, capturing the magic of the season for years to come.
Whether you’re snapping pics for a Christmas card or just want to capture special holiday memories, what you wear can make all the difference in achieving those picture-perfect moments!