Typically when I give people tips for what to wear to their family portrait session, I say, “Avoid wearing matching outfits, because you don’t want to look like twins.” Unless that’s the whole goal! In which case, just embrace it.

This family told me they wanted to take the most awkward family photos ever, and donned their best leopard attire just for the occasion. We did this session at a neighborhood park in Baltimore, where I think the fall foliage lended some appropriate camouflage. I had a blast attempting to execute their vision, and of course inserted some ideas of my own (and some “normal” poses for Grandma.)

This look may not be for all my family clients, but everyone can benefit from being a little silly and having fun. Let your personalities shine through, and the smiles will be genuine every time. And that, in my opinion, is way more important than what you’re wearing!

If lots of laughter and silliness IS your thing, you might check out my Instagram page, where I post more of my work, including annual family photo bloopers.