Christmas picture outfit inspiration

If you are a "Classic Christmas" fan and love all things green and red for Christmas you may lean towards this timeliness option for your pics.  We did a play on this look last year amongst the trees and it turned out so festive. You could also shoot this look next to your Christmas tree at home.  

Tip: Don't be afraid to introduce sequins and navy blue into your classic feel.  Navy adds some dimension to the traditional red and green and there is nothing more Christmassy than sparkle! 

His: Red Sweater, Plaid Button up shirt, Dress Pants, Dress Shoes

Hers: Drop Earrings, V-neck Sweater, Sequined Skirt, Nude heels

Little lady: Pearl headband, Plaid dress, Glitter flats

Little man: Blazer, White button up, Tan courdory pants, Suede boots

Our 2015 Christmas pictures ore my favorite to date!  We were barefoot and casual.  These pics turned out so dreamy!  I wore a flowy navy blue dress which caught the slight breeze perfectly.  The girls wore soft cream dresses and Peyton topped hers with a faux fur vest.  The added texture and color was unexpected but just right.  I loved our clean pallet that just lent itself perfectly to the coast. 

Tip: Mix and mingle textures in neutral colors for beach shoots.  I always aim for coastal colors when shooting at the beach. Think creams, tan and blues for the perfect soft pallet.  Bright hues tend to detract from the gorgeous coastline.  You want to pop against the waves but organically so. 

His: White button down shirt, Dark denim jeans

Hers: Gold hoop earrings, Blue maxi dress

Little lady: Faux Fur vest, Lace 3/4 sleeve dress

Little man: Chambray button down shirt, Tan corduroy pants

Think crackling fire, snow covered trees and snuggles!  This theme is so fun and totally casual!  Go all out with your plaids, beanies, vests and fur!  All of it works!  

Tip: Classic red and greens are super festive for this sort of theme.  I like to play the outside of the obvious choice and go with neutrals and deep jewel tones.  Layer colors and fabrics to create something interesting and different. 

His: Fur lined denim jacket, Plaid flannel shirt, Khaki pants, Brown leather boots

Hers:Cream fur lined coat, Cream turtleneck sweater, Highwaisted jeans, Tan suede booties

Little Lady: Fur Lined puffer vest, Polka dot blouse, Burgundy skinny jeans, Fur boots

Little Man: Olive green puffer jacket, Cream cowel neck sweater, Jeans, Brown leather boots

Christmas picture tips

I love love love Christmas cards and get so giddy when planning our Christmas pictures for the year.  It's one of my most favorite parts of the holiday!  We rush to our mailbox ready to gather up sweet cards each day of December filled with our friends and family's gorgeous faces.  I know that Christmas pictures can be dreaded for many families though.  What to wear?  How to get the kids to cooperate?  How to get the husband on board with a 30 minute photo shoot?  ALL the things!  Luckily, I've got you covered on the fashion end of things!!  I love dressing families and making the group as a whole look effortless yet still cohesive.  First, here are some first key elements to nail down before working on your outfits. 

1. Where is your shoot taking place?  We have done beach, woods, kitchen, pumpkin patch etc.  It doesn't matter where you pick but make sure your photographer is used to shooting there and is skilled at kids photography.  Our dear friend Alice Hu has shot our family for years and we are all so comfortable with her that our shoots go super smooth.  The kids love her and she knows how to capture the magic of a family.  

2.  Pick a time that everyone is feeling best.  If naps are in the mix still schedule your shoot for about an hour after your little ones nap so you know you have plenty of time to get a snack in and everyone is at their best.  Also, keep the session 30 minutes long!  You will lose your people after that!  

3.  Consider hair and makeup for mama.  I know this sounds a little overkill but nothing makes you feel better than a little pampering.  If all else fails, mommy looks fantastic!  

4. If working with a new photographer and not yet built a great rapor, bring along a trusted friend to help make sure you all look great.  You know that friend!  The one that will shamelessly tell you, you look chunky in that pose or help you not do weird things with your hands.  A wingman of sorts.  

5.  Lastly, don't sweat it!  Make sure to encourage the kids to play and keep loose.  There is nothing worse than looking stiff in pictures that should capture the essence of your family.  If you don't get the best family shot, use a great candid of the kids or make a collage of some great relaxed moments of the kids frolicking and you laughing  with your hubby.  It's all about capturing the current moment and there is only magic in that. 

I'm excited to share our favorite pics from past years!  Hopefully they can give you some idea inspiration for themes for your own shoots.  Stay tuned for my full family outfit looks tomorrow!  

Photo: Jackie Wonders 

Photo: Alice Hu 

Photo: Alice Hu

Photo: Alice Hu

Photo: Alice Hu

Photo: Alice Hu