What to wear for family photos can feel overwhelming, but choosing the right clothing is key to creating timeless, beautiful images. The right outfits can enhance your photos, ensure your family looks cohesive, and make the entire session feel effortless.
Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered! In this guide, I’ll share expert styling tips, color palettes, and outfit ideas to help your family look amazing in your next photo session.
1. First, Start with a Coordinated Color Palette
Gone are the days of everyone wearing the exact same color. Instead of matching, aim for coordinating colors that complement each other.
Best Color Palettes for Family Photos:
- Earthy & Neutral Tones – Beige, soft browns, olive green, rust, and cream create a warm, natural feel.
- Soft Pastels – Blush pink, dusty blue, sage green, and light gray look dreamy and timeless.
- Jewel Tones – Deep emerald, navy, burgundy, and mustard add richness and depth to fall and winter sessions.
Pro Tip: Avoid bright neon colors, large logos, and overly busy patterns, as they can be distracting in photos.
2. Pick a “Hero” Outfit & Build Around It
Instead of trying to pick outfits for everyone at once, start with one statement piece—like mom’s dress or a child’s patterned outfit—then coordinate the rest of the family’s clothing around it.
- If mom wears a flowy floral dress, choose solid colors for the rest of the family that complement the floral tones.
- When one child is wearing a plaid shirt, pull colors from the pattern for the other family members’ outfits.
This approach keeps outfits visually balanced and cohesive!
3. Opt for Timeless, Classic Styles
Trendy clothing can make photos feel dated over time. Instead, choose classic, well-fitted pieces that look great now and in years to come.
Best Clothing Styles for Family Photos:
- Moms: Flowy maxi dresses, soft sweaters, and skirts add movement and elegance.-
- Dads: Neutral button-downs, henley shirts, or cozy knits pair well with jeans or chinos.-
- Kids: Simple, comfortable outfits in soft fabrics—nothing too stiff or restrictive.
4. Layer & Add Textures for Depth
Textures and layers make photos look more visually interesting and add depth to your images.
- Sweaters, cardigans, or scarves add warmth and coziness.-
- Linen, cotton, and knit fabrics photograph beautifully.-
- Denim jackets, boots, or hats can add subtle personality.
Pro Tip: Light layers are especially great for fall and winter sessions!
5. Coordinate, Don’t Match
Instead of everyone wearing the same exact shade (think all-white shirts and jeans from the early 2000s), choose colors that complement each other while allowing each person to shine.
For example, if mom is in a dusty blue dress, dad can wear a light gray sweater, while the kids wear soft pastels or earth tones.
6. Avoid Distracting Patterns & Logos
While small, subtle patterns (like florals or plaids) can work, try to avoid:
- Large logos or text on shirts
- Neon or overly bright colors
- Heavy, bold patterns that clash
Pro Tip: Pick a pattern for one person and keep everyone else in solids or subtle textures to maintain balance.
7. Dress for the Season & Location
Your outfits should complement the season and setting of your session.
Spring & Summer Sessions:
- Light, airy fabrics like linen & cotton
- Soft pastels or muted neutrals
- Flowing dresses, short sleeves, sandals
Fall & Winter Sessions:
- Cozy knits, sweaters, boots
- Earthy tones or neutrals like rust, mustard, navy, tan or gray.
- Layering with scarves, vests, or jackets
Pro Tip: For studio sessions, opt for soft, neutral outfits that fit a timeless and minimalistic aesthetic.
8. Comfort is Key! (Especially for Kids)
When your kids are uncomfortable, they won’t be happy in photos! Choose soft, breathable fabrics that allow them to move freely.
- Avoid itchy sweaters or stiff formal wear
- Opt for comfortable shoes (no brand-new, unbroken dress shoes)
- Bring a backup outfit just in case!
9. Plan Ahead & Try Everything On First
Last-minute outfit changes can add stress to your session day. A few days before your session:
- Lay out everyone’s outfits together to see how they coordinate.-
- Try on everything to ensure a great fit.-
- Steam or iron clothing to prevent wrinkles.
Pro Tip: If you’re unsure, send me photos of your outfit choices, and I’d be happy to help!
10. Consider Professional Hair & Makeup
A little extra pampering can help you feel confident and camera-ready! If possible, consider booking professional hair and makeup, especially for moms.
- Soft, natural makeup enhances features without looking overdone.
- Loose waves or polished curls photograph beautifully.
Pro Tip: Avoid drastic new haircuts or colors right before your session!
Final Thoughts: What to Wear for Family Photos
Planning your outfits doesn’t have to be stressful! By choosing a coordinated color palette, comfortable yet stylish clothing, and timeless styles, you’ll create beautiful, cohesive family photos that you’ll cherish forever.
Quick Outfit Checklist:
- Choose coordinating colors, not matching outfits
- Start with one statement outfit & build around it
- Opt for classic, timeless styles over trendy fashion
- Layer with textures, accessories, and cozy fabrics
- Keep kids’ outfits comfortable and breathable
- Dress for the season & location
If you’re looking to add a few new pieces to your wardrobe, a few of my favorite places for family photo outfits are Zara, H&M, or Quince!
Ready to Book Your Family Session?
Are you looking for a Denver family photographer? I’d love to help capture your family’s special moments! Let’s create beautiful, timeless images together.
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