Let’s talk about one of the biggest questions I get from families before a session: “What the heck do we wear?”
Trust me, I get it. You want your family to look good without looking like you tried too hard. You want outfits that feel like “you” but also look put together. And let’s be real—you probably have enough on your plate already without adding a full-blown fashion crisis into the mix.

So, let me take that stress off your shoulders. Here’s everything you need to know about picking the perfect outfits for your family photoshoot—no fashion degree required.

Why Outfits Actually Matter (A Lot More Than You Think)

Here’s the thing: what you wear can totally set the tone for your session. Outfits help create the vibe of the photos. Want dreamy, timeless shots? Soft neutrals and flowy fabrics will do the trick. Going for fun and vibrant? Think bold colors and playful textures.

Your wardrobe choices also help the photos feel cohesive. When everyone’s outfit works together, your family looks connected, and the focus stays on your relationships—not clashing patterns or neon colors. Plus, when you feel good in what you’re wearing? You’ll naturally be more relaxed, confident, and ready to enjoy the moment.

Location + Season = Your Starting Point

Let’s start with the obvious: you’re not gonna wear the same thing for a beach shoot as you would for a cozy fall session in the woods. The location and season are your best guides for outfit choices.

Location tips:

• Beach: Think flowy, lightweight fabrics, and soft tones like white, cream, tan, and soft blues. Barefoot or simple sandals work great.
• Urban/City: You can go a little bolder here—edgy neutrals, sleek layers, maybe a statement piece.
• Parks/Fields: Earthy tones, layers, and natural textures like denim, cotton, and knits look amazing.

Season tips:

• Spring/Summer: Light, breathable fabrics and pastel or bright tones.
• Fall/Winter: Cozy layers, warm tones (rust, mustard, navy, burgundy), and texture like flannel or knit.

Comfort matters! Dress for the weather so no one’s freezing or sweating during your shoot.

Say Yes to a Color Palette (But Skip the Matchy-Matchy)

Gone are the days of everyone in white shirts and jeans (thank goodness). What does work? Picking a color palette that complements each other without being too “matchy-matchy.”

How to build a palette:

• Choose a main color (e.g., navy)
• Add 1-2 complementary colors (e.g., mustard, cream)
• Sprinkle in neutrals (white, beige, gray)

Stick to tones that work well with your background and skin tones. Need inspo? Look at color palettes on Pinterest or ask your photographer (hey, that’s me!).

What’s the Vibe?

What kind of feel do you want your photos to have?
Are we going for elegant and timeless or casual and cozy? Your outfit choices can totally steer that vibe.

Casual vibe: Think jeans, comfy tops, cute dresses, barefoot kids running around.
Dressy vibe: Coordinated outfits with dress shoes, button-ups, blouses, flowy dresses, and accessories.

No matter the vibe, make sure everyone’s outfits belong to the same story. If one person’s dressed for a gala and another’s dressed for a picnic…well, you get the idea.

Individual Style + Cohesion = Outfit Goals

Let’s be real, everyone has their own style—and that’s a good thing! Your daughter loves sparkly dresses? Your son lives in graphic tees? Let’s find a way to honor that while still creating a cohesive look.

Here’s the trick: let each person’s style come through in a way that fits within the overall color palette and vibe. Maybe your daughter’s sparkle comes in the form of a headband or shoes instead of a full sequin dress. It’s about balance.

Play with Textures and Layers

Textures and layers are your secret weapon. They add visual interest, depth, and dimension to your photos.

Try this:

• Pair denim with soft cotton or linen
• Add cardigans, scarves, or vests for layering
• Mix textures like lace, knits, corduroy, or chambray

Layers also give you the option to switch things up during the shoot. Take the jacket off for a different look or toss on a hat for fun. Plus, it’s practical for unexpected weather!

Let’s Talk Patterns (The Right Way)

Patterns can be awesome… when used wisely. A little goes a long way. One or two patterned pieces in your group? Love it. Everyone in bold stripes? Probably not the move.

Pattern tips:

• Stick to subtle, classic patterns like florals, plaid, or polka dots
• Avoid anything too loud or distracting
• Anchor patterns with solid colors

Pro tip: If your outfit has a bold pattern, keep everyone else in solids or minimal patterns so things don’t get chaotic.

Skip the Logos and Neon—Trust Me

Bright neons, big logos, or character tees? Hard pass. These things tend to steal attention and don’t always photograph well.

Why to skip them:

• Logos draw the eye away from your faces
• Neon colors reflect light weirdly and can cast unflattering tones
• Character prints feel dated really fast

Go for timeless, clean looks that focus on you, not your clothes.

Try Everything On (Yes, Really)

You think that shirt fits. Until you put it on and realize it shrunk in the wash… last year. Don’t leave outfit choices until the night before. Try everything on a few days ahead.

What to check:

• Fit and comfort
• Stains or damage (kids’ clothes are sneaky!)
• How everything looks together

You’ll save yourself stress—and maybe even a last-minute Target run.

Comfy Kids = Happy Kids

Kids need to feel good in their clothes or they’ll let you (and the camera) know. Skip anything scratchy, stiff, or complicated.

Go for:

• Soft fabrics they’re used to
• Easy layers they can move in
• Clothes they’ve worn before and like

Pro tip: bring an extra outfit just in case (spills happen) and maybe a favorite toy or treat for a little motivation.

Accessories and Shoes—The Finishing Touch

Accessories can pull everything together and add a little extra flair. Think hair bows, hats, statement necklaces, or suspenders for the little ones.

Keep it simple:

• One or two accessories per person
• Neutral or complementary tones
• Avoid anything super shiny or distracting

As for shoes—make sure they’re clean, comfy, and fit the setting. And yes, shoes matter in photos, especially full-body ones.

Don’t Forget Hair and Makeup

Polished but natural is the sweet spot. You want to feel like you, just a little more put together.

Hair tips:

• Tame flyaways with light hairspray or smoothing cream
• Style your hair in a way that won’t need constant fixes
• Bring a brush or clips just in case

Makeup tips:

• Light foundation, blush, mascara, and a neutral lip go a long way
• Avoid glitter or super shiny products (they reflect light in photos)
• Keep it breathable, especially if it’s hot

Confidence is Your Best Look

At the end of the day, you could wear a paper bag and still look amazing if you feel good and are having fun. Okay, maybe not literally, but you get my point.

The most important thing is to enjoy the experience with your family. Laugh, snuggle, play, and just be you. The love you share is what really shines—and I’m just there to capture it.

Need help picking outfits? I’m always happy to give suggestions or peek at options before your shoot. Let’s make this easy, fun, and stress-free—because your memories deserve nothing less.