Avoiding fast fashion for your photo session
I’ve talked before about what to wear to your session, but I want to share something that’s close to my heart about outfit planning.
As photographers, we’re often guilty (maybe “guilty” feels a bit heavy, but I’m going with it!) of showcasing the very best of our work. This often includes perfectly styled families, dressed in gorgeous neutrals, flowy dresses, and smart little outfits for toddlers. It’s easy to look at these images on social media and want the same for your own family photos, especially when this is the gold standard we photographers hold up for you.
Now, I’m not saying you shouldn’t want beautifully styled family photos (though there’s a whole other discussion to be had about what “perfection” means in a photo). But I do want to talk about how fast fashion is a big issue; not just for our planet, but for the people making your clothes. This is something I’m working hard to be mindful of in my own family, so I wanted to share a few outfit planning ideas that I try to work through before buying something new:
Look in your wardrobe first. You might already have some wonderful outfits waiting to be rediscovered.
Shop second-hand. Op shops and Facebook Marketplace often have amazing finds!
Borrow something from me! I’ve got plenty of womens, kids, and newborn outfits to choose from. View my client wardrobe here.
Consider hiring clothes. Mama Rentals and Everything Lace Hire have incredible collections for mums and kids.
Here’s some of my favourite second hand and rented outfits from recent sessions.
And if you do decide to buy something new, I recommend checking out the Ethical Fashion Guide to see how the brand you’re considering supports fair wages, climate commitment, and more. I also love supporting local sellers where I can (we have fantastic stalls at our local markets) or buying from Australian brands online.
If you’ve had a session with me before, you’ll know the most important thing I preach is that you and your family feel comfortable and confident in whatever you choose to wear. Your photos should feel like you! If you’re curious about outfit ideas or want to explore some eco-friendly options, I’m always here to chat.
