KristinCruz on LTK

Practical gifts he'll genuinely appreciate! This guide covers all the bases—grooming essentials, tech upgrades, outdoor gear, and everyday carry items.
Bamboo cutting board sets and portable bar kits are always crowd-pleasers. No more guessing what guys want—these are all winners!

#LTKGiftGuide #LTKHoliday #LTKMens

Practical gifts he'll genuinely appreciate! This guide covers all the bases—grooming essentials, tech upgrades, outdoor gear, and everyday carry items. Bamboo cutting board sets and portable bar kits are always crowd-pleasers. No more guessing what guys want—these are all winners! LTKGiftGuide LTKHoliday LTKMens

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Our 2025 Christmas Family Photoshoot 😍

Photo by Lucki Malloy Photography

#LTKHoliday #LTKSeasonal #LTKmomlife

I think all photographers should be sharing outfit links via platforms like LTK to help their clients out. 😍

Outfit stress shouldn’t be the thing that keeps people from booking, or causes them to show up to their sessions frazzled. Also, bad outfits shouldn’t be what’s keeping clients from loving the art you create.

It took me forever to make a talking video, lol. But I ripped the bandaid off so now I’m ready to start the conversation. 😉

I’ll be coming back on to talk about all the ways you can help your clients from super hands off to full service, there’s a fit for every photographer. 😍

Some color considerations for our favorite time of the day. 🏆

I will forever be obsessed with Reclamation dresses for Family Photoshoots. 🤗

Follow for more Family Photo Outfit Inspo! 🥰

family photoshoot, fall family photoshoot, spring family photoshoot, winter family photoshoot, summer family photoshoot

Comment SHOP below to receive a DM with the link to shop this post on my LTK ⬇ https://liketk.it/4Zomv

📣 All Neutrals is just ONE choice.

And the real reason that neutrals work for photoshoots is not what most people think. It's not that they are neutral, or that they are not "colorful".

It's their VALUE, SATURATION LEVELS and lower levels of CONSTRAST that makes them work.

😍Value is the relative lightness or darkness of a color.
😍Saturation refers to the intensity of the color from strong to weak.
😍Contrast is the juxtaposition of dissimilar elements (such as color, tone, or emotion) in a work of art - or the lack therof.

And when you know how to work with these three aspects of color you can put ANY colors together into a well coordinated set of outfits for...ANY editing style, ANY background and ANY group of people.🥳

I don't know about you, but I like to have options!

🤔A little experiment with colors and family photo outfits.

The first set of outfits full of common mistakes:

Matching outfits.
Colors that clash with the location.
Loud patterns.

The next set of outfits:

Coordinated with each other and the location.

Can you see the difference just color can make?

Something special for everyone under one roof!

kitchen essentials, cozy textiles, entertaining pieces, and thoughtful gifts for the whole family!
Checkerboard cutting boards and cast iron dutch ovens are absolute showstoppers. Perfect for creating new family traditions this season!

#LTKGiftGuide #LTKHoliday #LTKFamily

HERE’S WHY…

1. They are showing you clothing that works for them. So, it may not be a style that works for you personally or in photos.

2. They are only showing one piece of a bigger puzzle, a pretty dress doesn’t get the job done. You’ve got to think of the outfits as a whole instead of random separate pieces you like.

3. The color palettes recommended sometimes are just really off the mark when it comes to what will photograph well. I’ve seen a super popular post that recommends a palette of black, ketchup red and mustard yellow (not the pretty one, the one you put on a hot dog). That won’t work for most photoshoots. (That bad advice didn’t stop that post from getting hundreds of comments asking for links to those outfits. 🤷‍♀️)

Normal everyday outfit inspo is great. But, when it comes to photoshoots sometimes the recommendations are just sooooo off, but yet still so popular because people trust and like the people on those accounts, so they follow the advice.

Real Photoshoot Styling starts with palettes made for photoshoots, so you pick the right colors 🎨 . Each outfit is considered together instead of separately, coordinated BEFORE buying 🤑. No random one off purchases that don’t work in the end. The photographer’s editing style and the location need to be considered before choosing the clothing, one set of colors doesn’t work for every photoshoot. It needs to be specific to work. ✅

So please, while this advice is well intentioned and sometimes may work out…it isn’t enough. And most likely it will just lead to over-buying things that aren’t going to work or you aren’t going to use. Worst of all, the wrong outfits can ruin those pictures you are working so hard to get done.

Save money and time and get better results by listening to your photographer’s recommendations or hiring a Photoshoot Stylist to do it for you. 😍

I’ve seen it all over Instagram, moms confused about what to wear to their family photoshoot and therefore not booking a photoshoot.

And it makes me so sad 😭!

If you want those pictures the outfits DO 👏NOT 👏HAVE👏 TO 👏HOLD 👏 YOU 👏BACK!

You know how some people love doing the thing that other people run away from, like the ladies from The Home Edit, I could never do what they do! It amazes me.

But, family photoshoot outfits, now that is my zone. I love it, I’m obsessed with it, it’s my favorite part of the whole process (well besides the pictures!)

I’m so obsessed I started a whole business around it.

😍Photographers hire me to style their clients.
😍Moms hire me to get ready for their Family Photoshoots.
😍 I created an app, @moodboardmagicapp to help photographers style their clients using my system.
😍 I created a Style Guide toolkit with style guide templates like nothing else out there.
😍 I continually share free inspo on my LTK for Family Photoshoots (getting ready to post some fully coordinated outfits for Spring! 🌷)

So, if you found me and you need help with the outfits for a family photoshoot make sure you hit that follow button so you don’t forget I’m here whenever you need me! 😉

The sweetest picks for the little ones! I went for that perfect mix of whimsical and practical—think cozy accessories, adorable toys, and pieces that spark imagination!

#LTKGiftGuide #LTKKids #LTKFamily

That last-minute scramble for outfits—look familiar?

I’ve been there, and I get it. When outfit planning feels overwhelming, it’s easy to procrastinate.

❓What colors work best?
❓Which dress should I choose?
⁉️How do I pull it all together?

Before you know it, you’re piecing outfits together the night before, hoping it works.

But here’s the thing— you dont have to do it alone! I’m here to help! 😍

From an adorable balance bike to character favorites and creative toys, this gift guide is all about adventure and fun! All these options are quality pieces that hold up to all the rough and tumble play!

#LTKGiftGuide #LTKHoliday #LTKKids

It’s a vibe!

When I first started styling clients for their family photoshoots, I knew the right colors could enhance their photos in a big way. That’s when I decided to include color analysis in the process.

I had a theory — if you wore your best colors to your photoshoot, the results would be next-level. And guess what? It worked.

The wrong colors can leave you looking washed out (or even a little green), but the right colors? They make your skin glow, your eyes pop, and your photos feel effortlessly you.

Want to know your best colors for photoshoots (and beyond)? Comment “my colors” and I’ll send you all the details to book your own color analysis session!

Gift giving made easy! This year's guide is packed with cozy favorites and thoughtful picks she'll love.
From the coziest robe to luxe self-care staples, I'm loving how practical meets pretty here.

#LTKGiftGuide #LTKHoliday #LTKStyleTip

Love this dress for a Christmas Tree Farm family photoshoot.

#LTKKids #LTKSeasonal #LTKFamily

It wouldn’t hurt to have some tea (occasional coffee) drinking yoga and plant lovers here too, because just like you I’m more than just one thing that fits nicely into a little niche.

I have to say that was the most damaging advice I took on here when I actually started posting and sharing. I am super private so it took a lot to start sharing and posting, and then the “rule” was to box yourself in but somehow also be yourself. 🤷‍♀️

I think I’ll just skip the rules and trends for a bit and try being myself. 😍 Maybe it won’t be so stressful to post and I can just enjoy connecting instead.

So, I’m trying something new! I’m just going to do what I feel instead of what I think I should do here and see what happens. Worst case scenario I make a few more real friends. 😍

Say hey if you’re up for that. 🥰

Want to feel truly beautiful on shoot day?
Here’s your permission to go a little extra—and yes, it’s so worth it.

Book the hair and makeup.
Get your nails done.
Add the extensions if you’ve been thinking about it. (Or get some clip ins!)

These little things might seem small, but they make such a difference—especially in close-up shots.

Here’s why:
• Professional makeup enhances your features and helps you glow on camera (no washed-out skin or smudged mascara). Fake eyelashes are always a yes if you can get some.
• Polished hair with no flyaways looks beautiful from every angle—and it saves you stress on the day of.
• Nails matter! They show up in those sweet detail shots: hand-holding, snuggling your littles, resting on your baby bump. So make sure they are done.

And if you want fuller or longer hair? Don’t be afraid of a few clip-in extensions or a halo—they blend beautifully and add volume that moves so well in photos.

On a budget? You can totally DIY it!
There are amazing tutorials out there for soft glam makeup and natural waves that hold. Just practice a few days ahead so you feel confident come shoot day.

It’s not about looking like someone else—it’s about feeling your best.
These small details add up to a big boost in confidence.

Next up: patterns—how to use them well (and when to skip them!).

Let’s talk about fit—and how to feel beautiful in your body right now, exactly as you are.

There’s no one “right” way to dress for your photoshoot.
Some people feel most confident in pieces that highlight their shape. Others feel best in outfits that offer a little more flow and coverage.

No judgment here. You’re allowed to honor your body in whatever way feels best for you.

Here’s one of my favorite tips (even if it feels a little uncomfortable):

Take a short video of yourself in the outfit—turn to the side, check the back, walk around. Then pause and screenshot each angle.

It’s the best way to make sure your outfit looks good from all sides—before you’re looking at your final gallery wondering why that dress didn’t photograph how you hoped.

Photos are static and unforgiving—your outfit should be one you feel confident in from every angle.

That doesn’t mean changing your body. It means choosing clothes that truly fit the one you have right now.

So whether you want to highlight or gently camouflage—your style is valid. You deserve to feel beautiful in whatever fit makes you feel most like you.

Next up: let’s talk about some finishes pieces to your look—and why being a little extra for photoshoots is a great idea. 😍

One of the biggest ways to feel confident in your photos?

Wearing colors that flatter you AND photograph well.

This is why I always start with color. The right shade can brighten your skin, make your eyes pop, and give your photos that polished, pulled-together feel.

If you’re not sure which colors work best on you, try this:

Test a few outfit colors by taking photos of yourself in the same lighting. It’s easier to see what truly flatters you in photos than in the mirror.

Here’s what to avoid for photos, even if you love these colors day-to-day:

⚫️ Black: tends to lose all detail and can look flat or heavy in camera.
⚪️ Bright white: can blow out in sunlight, lose texture, and throw off skin tones.
❎ Neons: reflect onto your skin and fight against the soft, timeless vibe most photographers aim for.

And of course—check with your photographer! Many have favorite tones they love to edit (and some that never work with their style).

Want to take out the guesswork completely? A color analysis session will show you exactly which tones make you glow.

Next up: we’ll talk fit in part 2—and how to feel beautiful in your body right now.

My go to outfit when it’s a little chilly and I want to go shopping. 😉

#LTKdayinmylife #LTKPetite #LTKOver40

When I found out my season, I thought, “Great… but now I have to give up half my closet?” 😬

But the funny thing was—a lot of my colors were already in there.

The problem? I was only wearing a few of them. And the rest? Just a sea of black. 🖤

Then I actually tried my season’s colors.
Not just one or two—like really gave them a shot.

And guess what? Suddenly I was wearing more color than ever before—and it all just worked. My clothes felt more me. Getting dressed was easier. Shopping made sense.

No more second-guessing everything.

And I’ve seen the same thing happen with my clients. Once they start giving their palette a real try, it clicks.

Having my palette saved on my phone helped so much—it’s what really brought it to life for me.

And I’ve got something coming soon that’ll make shopping your colors even easier… 👀 stay tuned!

#seasonalcoloranalysis #colorseasontruths #notjustblack #closetupgrade #stylehacks #notbasicstyle #hueareyou #personalstylejourney

Can’t go wrong with these dresses for your next family photoshoot! 🥰

#LTKSeasonal #LTKHoliday #LTKFamily

Probably why I became a Photoshoot Stylist, just can’t stop. 🥰😉😘

These cozy fall pieces were made to go together. Smocked puff sleeve dresses, chunky knits, corduroy pants, and a classic plaid dress — all layered in chocolate, cream, browns, and charcoal. These warm, timeless neutrals just work together, especially for fall photos.

And the best part? These are the kinds of pieces you’ll keep reaching for. Perfect for Thanksgiving, family outings, school events — they’re beautiful in front of the camera and still feel good to wear once the photos are done. No urge to rip them off the second you get home.

Everything’s coordinated and ready to shop — I’ve already done the hard part for you.

#LTKSeasonal #LTKStyleTip #LTKFamily

Can you spot the moment we put a test color on that totally didn’t work?! 🤣

You can really see the difference in person during a color analysis session — and it’s one of my favorite parts when my clients see it too! There’s almost always a big reaction to the wrong colors… and they light up in the right ones. 😍

I always recommend starting with color analysis before photoshoot styling — because that’s what truly takes it to the next level.

Outfit coordination is great.
But this? This is where it gets elevated.

Color analysis is the step that makes the whole process click.

It’s not just about finding something cute — it’s about choosing colors that:

✔ bring out your natural glow
✔ edit beautifully in your photographer’s style
✔ feel like you (not just Pinterest-perfect)

It takes the guesswork out of shopping, because you know just what to choose.

Whether you’re styling your own family or clients, this is the game-changer that makes your outfits feel intentional (not thrown together the night before 🙃).

If you’re local, I’d love to see you in my chair! 💺
Virtual sessions are available too — no matter where you live.
But honestly? Even if you don’t do your color analysis with me… do it. It’s that life-changing. 😘

🔗 Book your session through the link in my bio!

#photoshootstyling #coloranalysis #photographytips #familyphotoshoot #stylingmatters #personalstylist #kristincruzstyle #photoshootoutfits #elevatedstyling #brandstylist

This botanical print maxi set the tone right away — flowy, relaxed, and so easy to build around. I layered in a chunky knit, some charcoal denim, and a pop of plaid… and just like that, everyone coordinates in those cream + sage tones without looking like we’re trying too hard. It’s effortless but pulled together… my favorite combo.

#LTKStyleTip #LTKSeasonal #LTKShoeCrush

Head to my link in bio to see it all! 🥰

Loving this layered look! Fair isle sweater with lace midi skirt, cargo pants, quarter-zip sweater, plaid flannel pants—neutrals with pops of pattern in cream, taupe, olive, and rust that create such a stylish vibe for family photos.

#LTKSeasonal #LTKStyleTip #LTKFamily

I’m so ready for Christmas! How about you? 🎅🎄☃️

#LTKFamily #LTKHoliday

Back to posting coordinated family looks—just in time to catch the last of those fall leaves and start planning for Christmas photos! 😍🎅

This sage and taupe palette is chef’s kiss for fall and winter shoots. That flowing olive maxi with smocked detail is the anchor piece, and from there it all comes together effortlessly: a cozy chunky knit, a sweet gingham baby dress, and rich cognac boots. 😍

Every piece complements the others—nothing’s competing. It’s one of those combos that just works.

#LTKFamily #LTKSeasonal #LTKStyleTip

✨ It’s my favorite time of year—family photoshoot season! ✨

I’m booking our own shoots and planning outfits right along with you, so you know I’ve got all the best picks ready to share. 💛

Don’t stress over what to wear—I’ll be posting my favorite outfit ideas, color palettes, and styling tips so you can feel confident and LOVE the way your photos turn out.

Follow along and let’s get you picture-perfect this season! 📸👗👔

Love love love these for Christmas Family Photos!

#LTKSeasonal #LTKHoliday #LTKFamily

Loving the new equestrian trend for the holidays!

#LTKHoliday #LTKStyleTip

This is a trending style that I love for Family Photoshoots!

Follow for more Family Photo Outfit Inspo! 🥰 If you’d like to learn more about how to DIY the coordination of outfits for your family photoshoot head over to my Instagram to learn more. (@thekristincruz)

family photoshoot, fall family photoshoot, spring family photoshoot, winter family photoshoot, summer family photoshoot

#LTKStyleTip #LTKSeasonal #LTKFamily

My fav new cardigan, it’s like wearing a blanket. May have to get more colors! Only wish it had pockets. 😊

#LTKOver40 #LTKPetite #LTKSeasonal