January 15, 2025

Heirloom portraits for children are a beautiful way to capture their innocence and charm, creating timeless images that can be passed down through generations. These sessions are all about classic, refined simplicity, with a focus on your child as the centerpiece of the art.

As Salt Lake City’s only photographer specializing in traditional vignette portraits, I’ve created this guide to help you choose the perfect wardrobe for your child. Let’s make sure their personality shines through while keeping their portraits timeless and elegant.

1. Prioritize Neutral and Pastel Color Palettes

For children’s heirloom portraits, soft and neutral tones are ideal. These colors keep the focus on your child’s features and create a classic, clean look that never goes out of style. Consider shades like:
• Ivory, cream, or white
• Soft blush or dusty rose
• Light sage or muted greens
• Warm beige or taupe
• Pastel blues or grays

These tones complement natural light and create a cohesive aesthetic, perfect for framing or displaying in your home. Avoid bright, bold colors or busy patterns, as they can distract from the timeless quality of the portrait.

2. Choose Classic, Vintage-Inspired Pieces

Heirloom portraits are meant to feel timeless, so opt for vintage-inspired or traditional outfits. For girls, consider:
• Lace or smocked dresses: These add a touch of old-world charm.
• Peter Pan collars: These classic details are perfect for creating a sweet, innocent look.
For boys, consider:
• Knit rompers or overalls: Simple, yet classic.
• Button-up shirts: Pair them with suspenders for a polished look.
• Shorts with knee-high socks: This timeless combination adds an old-fashioned charm.

The key is to keep the clothing simple and free from logos, graphics, or modern elements.

3. Pay Attention to Textures and Details

Textures can elevate the look of a portrait while keeping it understated. Look for:
• Delicate lace or eyelet fabrics
• Soft knits and wools
• Linen or cotton materials

These fabrics photograph beautifully and add dimension to the portrait without overwhelming the image. Hand-embroidered details or subtle ruffles can also enhance the timeless feel of the outfit.

4. Keep Accessories Minimal and Meaningful

Accessories should enhance the portrait, not distract from your child. For girls, consider:
• Simple bows in soft hues
• A classic bracelet or locket (optional)

For boys, options might include:
• A timeless newsboy cap
• Suspenders or a bowtie in a neutral tone

Avoid large or flashy accessories, as they can take attention away from your child’s expressions and features.

5. Barefoot or Traditional Footwear?

In most heirloom portraits, less is more. Barefoot portraits often look the most natural, especially for younger children. If shoes are necessary, opt for:
• Classic Mary Janes for girls
• Leather or suede loafers for boys

Stick to neutral tones like beige, brown, or soft gray to keep the look cohesive.

6. Prepare Ahead of Time

Here are a few tips to ensure everything runs smoothly:
• Try on outfits in advance: Ensure a good fit and avoid last-minute surprises.
• Steam or iron clothing: Wrinkle-free outfits make a significant difference in polished portraits.
• Keep spares on hand: Accidents happen, especially with children. Bring an extra outfit just in case.

7. Let the Personality Shine

While clothing is important, the real magic comes from your child’s personality. Keep them comfortable and engaged during the session. Choose outfits that don’t restrict movement or feel itchy, ensuring they can relax and have fun.

About My Heirloom Portrait Sessions
In-Studio Sessions
My studio in South Jordan is the perfect setting for heirloom portraits. These sessions are short and sweet, designed to keep your child comfortable and happy while we capture timeless, elegant images.
At-Home Sessions
If you prefer the comfort of your own home, I can bring my studio to you. With this option, I recreate the same classic look and feel of a studio portrait while allowing your child to stay in a familiar and relaxed environment.

My goal is for these portraits to stand the test of time, becoming family treasures passed down through generations. To achieve this, I offer a range of stunning presentation options:
Vintage Golden Frames: Perfect for traditional heirloom portraits, these frames elevate the artwork and make it ready to display in your home.
Custom Prints: Available for those who want to frame the portraits themselves or give meaningful gifts to grandparents.
Albums: If you select your full gallery, I can create a custom heirloom album for you—a beautiful way to preserve every image.

Book Your Heirloom Portrait Session Today

If you’re ready to create timeless, heirloom-quality portraits of your child, I’d be honored to guide you every step of the way. My sessions are designed to bring out the best in your little one, ensuring you walk away with artwork you’ll treasure forever.

Contact me to reserve your session in Salt Lake City today. Together, we’ll create something truly unforgettable.

See more of my Heirloom Portraits Portfolio Here

Where to Find Clothing for Heirloom Portraits

Choosing the right outfits for your child’s heirloom portraits is essential to achieving a timeless look. Fortunately, Salt Lake City and online boutiques offer a variety of options for vintage-inspired children’s clothing. Some of my favorite places to shop include:
• The Beaufort Bonnet Company: Known for their classic smocked dresses, Peter Pan collars, and timeless rompers.
• Jamie Kay: This boutique offers high-quality, neutral-toned knits and linen pieces that photograph beautifully.
• Etsy: A treasure trove of handmade and unique clothing, with many shops specializing in heirloom-quality pieces for children.