The Ultimate Style Guide from a Professional Photographer

Outfit tips, color palettes, and real advice from someone who’s seen it all!

Family photo day is a big deal. Whether it’s your first time in front of the camera or your annual fall mini session, one question always pops up: “What should we wear?”

As a family photographer (and mom), I totally get it. You want everyone to look great — without looking like you tried too hard. You want timeless photos that feel like you, but also…better dressed and less chaotic. Don’t worry, I’ve got you. Here’s everything you need to know to dress for photo day success.

Clothing helps set the tone for your session — soft and cozy, bright and playful, polished but relaxed. Outfits that coordinate, not match and bring everything together visually and emotionally.

Plus, when you feel good in what you’re wearing, it shows in your photos. Confidence is camera magic.

Top Tips for What to Wear for Your Family Photos

1. Pick a Palette, Not a Uniform

Start with 2-3 core colors and build from there. Think soft neutrals, earthy tones, muted jewel tones — colors that look amazing in natural light and won’t date your photos.

Example: Cream + sage + dusty rose = chef’s kiss.
Neon orange + black + camo = let’s not.

2. Coordinate, Don’t Clone

Everyone doesn’t need to be in jeans and a white shirt (unless you’re going for that mid-’90s Sears catalog aesthetic — in which case, go for it). Instead, aim for complementary styles and tones. A mix of solids, subtle patterns, and textures adds visual interest without chaos.

3. Comfort Over Everything

This is not the time to squeeze your toddler into stiff pants or wear those heels you haven’t touched since 2012. If you’re not comfortable, you won’t relax. If the kids aren’t comfy, well… can we say meltdown.

4. Say Yes to Layers and Texture

Think cozy cardigans, knit rompers, linen dresses, denim jackets. Layers = depth and dimension in photos. Bonus: they can be taken off or added for quick variety.

5. Think About Your Home Decor

If you’re planning to print and hang these photos (which you totally should), consider your home’s color scheme. Warm tones or cool tones? Minimalist or cozy cottagecore? Let that guide your outfit choices — especially if you’re printing in color.

Pro tip: All images you choose from your gallery with me come in both color and black & white, so you can decide what works best for your walls after you see them. No pressure, just options. You’re welcome.

6. Let’s Talk About Shoes (Yes, Really)

Shoes might feel like an afterthought… until someone shows up in neon sneakers or flip-flops with socks. (It happens.)

Here’s the deal: Shoes should match the overall vibe — casual, comfy, neutral, and not distracting. Avoid bright colors, busy patterns, or anything with big logos. Think boots, sandals, loafers, or even barefoot for that earthy, cozy look.

👶 Toddler bonus tip: If the weather allows, I love, with a big-puffy-heart-love, photographing barefoot little feet. There’s something sweet, grounded, and timeless about it — and let’s be honest, shoes are optional for toddlers anyway 90% of the time.

(That’s my family by the way. Miss those days……. )

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 What to Wear for Large or Extended Family Sessions

Coordinating outfits for a big group? First of all, bless you. Second, here’s your golden rule: coordinate, don’t match as I mentioned above.

Choose 2–3 main colors and sprinkle them throughout everyone’s outfits in different ways. Think soft tones like sage, cream, and dusty rose — not everyone needs to wear the exact same shade or pattern. Add in a few neutrals (denim, khaki, gray), and boom: cohesive, but not clone-y.

💡 Pro tip: Have everyone lay out their outfits together (on a bed or floor) before the session. It’s way easier to spot anything clashing or overly matchy-matchy before you show up for photos.

Seasonal Style Inspo

🪻 Spring: Ivory, blush, light blue, soft greens
☀️ Summer: Cream, dusty rose, chambray, tan (of course beach or flower field or urban can change this)
🍂 Fall: Rust, mustard, forest green, oatmeal
❄️ Winter: Charcoal, wine, navy, camel

And if you’re doing studio or in-home sessions? Neutrals always win — they let you shine. But again, stay true to you!

Tips for What “NOT” to Wear

• Logos or graphics (unless your 6-year-old is contractually obligated to wear Spider-Man)
• Bright neons — they reflect color onto skin and distract from your beautiful faces
• Baseball hats — trust me on this one
• Super trendy pieces that might scream “2020s” in five years
• Uncomfortable clothing –If it’s itchy, too tight, or something you constantly have to adjust — don’t wear it. You’ll feel fidgety and the photos will possibly show it.

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Where to Shop (Without Losing Your Sanity)

• Zara Kids: Stylish but not overdone
• H&M: Great basics, especially their Conscious line
• Baltic Born: Flowy dresses that look incredible in photos (hello, mom glow)
• Old Navy and Gap: Affordable staples for the whole fam
• Amazon Essentials: Surprisingly good if you’re in a pinch
• Target: Cute options here and getting better with every season

Let’s Make Some Photo Magic

If you’re ready to capture your family in all your real, beautiful, slightly chaotic glory, I’d love to work with you. Whether it’s snuggles at home or golden hour in the park, I’ll guide you every step of the way — outfit stress not included.

I know from experience — these years go fast. That’s why I’m not just about pretty pictures. I want to help you capture the real magic: the connection, the season you’re in, and the love that’s yours right now.

📸 Let’s chat and book your session today! Contact me here. Want a Little Extra Help?

I’ve created a handy Outfit Planning Checklist just mention it and I’ll send it over to you.