Family photos are more than just pictures—they’re cherished memories that capture your family at a specific moment in time. Choosing the perfect outfits for your session can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be! With a few simple tips and some thoughtful planning, you can create a coordinated look that feels natural, timeless, and true to your family’s personality. Here are a few tips to help you choose the perfect outfits for your family photos!

Start with a Color Palette

A cohesive color palette is the foundation of well-coordinated family photos. Instead of everyone wearing the exact same color, choose 3-4 complementary colors that tie your outfits together. Think about where your photos will be displayed in your home and the overall look you’d like them to convey.

Here are a few timeless color palette ideas to get you started:

• Neutral and Soft Tones: Cream, beige, blush, light gray, and sage green. Perfect for airy, light-filled sessions. These tones create a serene and elegant look that never goes out of style.
  
• Warm and Earthy Hues: Rust, mustard yellow, olive green, and navy. Great for fall sessions or outdoor settings where natural backdrops enhance these colors.
  
• Cool and Classic: Shades of blue, white, soft gray, and charcoal. Ideal for a timeless, clean look that works well in most settings.
  
• Bold and Vibrant: Deep red, emerald green, mustard, and navy. Works well for holiday photos or dramatic outdoor backdrops to make your family stand out.

Avoid overly bright neon colors or busy patterns that can distract from your faces and the connection in your photos. Instead, focus on tones that complement your skin tones and the setting. For more help and ideas on colors for your session, check out my Pinterest board here.

Coordinate Without Matching

Gone are the days of everyone wearing identical white shirts and jeans. Instead, aim for coordination by mixing textures, patterns, and tones within your chosen palette. For example:

• Mom could wear a flowy dress with a subtle floral pattern in neutral tones, adding softness and movement.
  
• Dad might opt for a solid-colored button-down shirt with dark jeans, creating a polished but relaxed vibe.
  
• Kids can wear complementary colors—like a plaid shirt for your son and a soft pastel dress for your daughter, keeping their outfits playful yet cohesive.

This approach creates visual interest while keeping the overall look harmonious.

Stick to one or two patterns (like stripes or florals) and balance them with solids so the outfits don’t clash. This helps ensure the photos feel coordinated without looking too busy.

Consider the Season and Location

Your session’s season and setting can help guide your outfit choices. For example:

• Spring/Summer: Light, breathable fabrics like linen and cotton work well. Soft pastels and floral prints complement the bright, sunny vibe of these seasons and give a fresh, cheerful feel.
  
• Fall: Lean into cozy textures like knit sweaters, corduroy, or denim. Earthy tones and layers like scarves or jackets can add depth and warmth to your photos.
  
• Winter: Opt for rich colors like deep red, emerald, or navy. Accessories like beanies, scarves, and boots can keep everyone warm and stylish while adding personality.
  
• Studio Sessions: A clean, minimalist look with neutral tones and simple silhouettes ensures the focus stays on your family. Think classic whites, grays, and soft accents.

Each season and location brings its own unique beauty, and your outfits can help highlight that natural charm.

Prioritize Comfort

While style is important, comfort is key—especially for kids! Make sure everyone’s outfits fit well and allow for movement. For little ones, choose clothes that they’re familiar with to avoid fussiness during the session.

For moms, opt for outfits that flatter your silhouette and make you feel beautiful. Dresses with soft, flowing fabrics are a popular choice because they move gracefully and photograph beautifully. Dads might prefer well-fitted, structured pieces like a button-down shirt or a nice sweater that feels comfortable and confident.

Pro Tip: Avoid anything overly tight, scratchy, or that requires constant adjusting. Feeling comfortable will help everyone relax and enjoy the session. When everyone feels good, it shows in the photos.

Add Layers and Accessories

Layers and accessories can elevate your family’s look and add a touch of personality. Think scarves, hats, belts, or simple jewelry. Layers also give you the option to adjust for weather or switch up the look during the session.

For kids, consider incorporating a fun accessory like a bow tie, headband, or cute boots that reflect their personality. These small details can make a big impact. Just be careful not to overdo it—you don’t want accessories to overshadow your faces and expressions.

Test It Out Ahead of Time

Lay everyone’s outfits out together to see how they look as a whole. You can even take a quick photo to get a better sense of how the colors and textures work together on camera.

If something feels off, swap out pieces until you find a combination you love. This step also gives you time to address any last-minute issues, like wrinkles or missing buttons.

Make sure shoes are clean and match the vibe of your outfits. Avoid athletic sneakers unless they’re intentional for the look. Polished footwear can make a huge difference in tying the look together.

Trust Your Photographer’s Expertise

If you’re feeling stuck, don’t hesitate to reach out to your photographer for guidance. Many photographers offer style guides or even have client closets with outfit options for moms and kids. They’ve seen what works (and what doesn’t) and can provide valuable advice to ensure your family looks amazing.

Choosing the perfect outfits for your family photos doesn’t have to be stressful. By selecting a cohesive color palette, prioritizing comfort, and adding thoughtful touches, you’ll create a look that feels authentic and timeless. Remember, the goal is to capture your family’s unique connection—and when you feel good in what you’re wearing, that joy will shine through in every photo.