What to Wear for Family Photos

One of the most common questions I receive before a session is: “What should we wear?” Choosing outfits for family photos can feel overwhelming, but it really doesn’t have to be. The goal is not to look perfectly styled — it’s simply to look like yourselves while keeping things visually cohesive.

Here are a few simple tips that help families look great in photos without overthinking it.

Start With One Outfit

The easiest way to build everyone’s outfits is to start with one person first. This is usually mom, since most moms want to feel confident and comfortable in photos. Once you have one outfit chosen, you can build the rest of the family around those colours and textures.

For example:
If mom is wearing denim and a soft cream sweater, the rest of the family can pull from those tones with soft blues, neutrals, or warm earthy colours.

Coordinate, Don’t Match

One of the biggest myths about family photos is that everyone should wear the same thing. Matching white shirts and jeans used to be popular, but it often feels dated and takes away from the natural feeling of the images. Instead, aim to coordinate colours rather than match them. Think of outfits that complement each other instead of copying each other.

Choose a Colour Palette

A simple colour palette helps everything feel cohesive.

Some of my favourite palettes for photos are:

• Cream
• Soft grey
• Denim
• Sage green
• Warm browns
• Muted blues
• Rust or burgundy accents

Soft, earthy tones tend to photograph beautifully and work well in almost any setting.

Avoid Large Logos and Busy Patterns

Clothing with large logos, bright graphics, or very busy patterns can pull attention away from the people in the photo. Simple textures and subtle patterns are always a safer choice. Think cozy sweaters, linen dresses, denim, knits, or cotton.

Add Texture

Texture adds depth to photos and keeps outfits from feeling flat.

Some great examples of texture include:

• Knit sweaters
• Linen fabrics
• Denim
• Flowy dresses
• Layered clothing

These small details help photographs feel soft and timeless.

Comfort Is Key (Especially for Kids)

Kids photograph best when they feel comfortable. Try to avoid outfits that feel stiff, itchy, or unfamiliar. If children are comfortable in their clothes, they are much more likely to relax and be themselves during the session. Movement also photographs beautifully, so dresses, loose layers, and soft fabrics work really well. We will also do some sitting poses during your sessions so making sure you are comfortable in your outfits is key.

Barefoot Is Always Welcome

For studio sessions and many in-home sessions, barefoot often looks the most natural in photos. It keeps the images feeling relaxed and timeless. I also won’t be opposed if you want to go barefoot frolicking through a field with me!

Don’t Overthink It

At the end of the day, what you wear matters far less than the connection between your family. The best photos come from laughter, movement, and those quiet in-between moments, not perfectly styled outfits. Simple clothing, neutral tones, and comfortable fabrics will always photograph beautifully.

Need Help Choosing Outfits?

If you’re ever unsure about what to wear, I’m always happy to help. Many of my clients send me photos of outfit options beforehand and I can help guide you toward what will photograph best.

Planning outfits should feel easy and stress-free so you can focus on what matters most — spending time together as a family. Most importantly? Be yourself. Wear what represents you as a person, and as a family.