What to wear for Your Family Photos

Planning what to wear for your family photos can feel like a lot, especially when you’re trying to coordinate everyone’s outfits and still make it look natural! The good news? It doesn’t have to be complicated. Here’s how to choose outfits for your family photoshoot that feel good, look beautiful, and photograph well too.

Start with a Colour Palette

The first step is picking a colour palette, and there are a few things to keep in mind. Your photographer’s editing style plays a big part (mine is light and airy, so soft pastels and neutrals work beautifully). Also, think about your family’s personality: if you’re a family that loves colour, you wouldn’t feel like yourselves in your photos if you wear all neutrals! Choose tones that feel like you. Complimentary colours (blue/peach, green/pink, yellow/lavender etc), sprinkled with some neutral shades look classy and elevated without the “beige look”. Here’s a bonus tip: think about your home. If you plan to hang these images on your wall, choose tones that work with your decor so your photos fit in seamlessly.

Choose Comfortable, Well-Fitting Clothes

Opt for outfits that fit well and allow you to move freely. You don’t want to be tugging at straps or stiff from tight jeans when you’re meant to be snuggling and playing with your kids. Think flowy, breathable fabrics that let you just enjoy the moment. Clothes that are comfortable and don’t need constant adjusting will help you stay relaxed and enjoy the session.

Add Some Visual Interest

Gone are the days of everyone in white shirts and jeans. Instead, Go for coordinated outfits. Start with one person’s outfit (usually one with a subtle pattern) as a base, and pull coordinating colours from that for the rest of the family. Solid colours and light textures work really well. The result is cohesive and gorgeous!

Pick a Vibe and Stick to It

Make sure everyone’s outfits feel like they belong together. If one person is dressed up and another looks super casual, the overall look can feel a bit mismatched. For example, if Mum is in a floaty dress, Dad might look best in a button-up shirt and chinos – not jeans and a casual tee. I often suggest dresses with a cinched waist for women, as they’re flattering on most body types, and look great on camera. But if you’re not a dress person, go for what makes you feel like the best version of you, whether that’s a jumpsuit, palazzos or a cute blouse. The goal is to feel like yourself, just a little extra polished.

A Few Things to Avoid

Steer clear of logos, loud graphics, neon colours and bold prints, these tend to draw attention away from your faces (where the real magic is). Keep nails, accessories and makeup simple so the focus stays on your connection and joy.

In the end, the best outfit is the one that makes you feel beautiful, comfortable and like you. That’s what truly shines in your photos.

I offer wardrobe selection assistance to all my clients before their photo session.

Are you ready to have gorgeous photos of your family that will be treasured lifelong keepsakes? Send me a message and let’s chat!