Are you putting off booking your family photoshoot because you’re still trying to figure out what to wear for your family photos? I totally get it. That decision can feel like the biggest hurdle.
But here’s the good news: I’ve photographed hundreds of families and kids as an experiencedBut here’s the good news: I’ve photographed hundreds of families and kids as an experienced family photographer, and I’ve picked up plenty of easy tips and tricks to help you feel confident and prepared.
You’ll hear me say this again in your booking email because it works every single time: when in doubt, go neutral. Neutral colors and palettes flatter almost every skin tone and make a perfect base for any outfit. Whites, creams, and tans are beautiful for a light, airy spring or summer look. For a cozier fall or winter vibe, choose blacks, grays, and richer browns. Once you’ve got your neutral base, it’s so much easier to mix in a few pops of color or playful patterns, like this family did below. That’s part of my philosophy for family photos: wear what feels good, stay comfortable, and focus on simple style choices.
What to Wear for Family Photos: Choose the Right Fabrics
When planning outfits, don’t overlook fabric choice — especially for kids. Make sure their clothes let them move and play. Kids feel much happier in front of the camera when they’re dressed in soft, comfy fabrics they can move freely in. Bonus: those soft textures create beautiful movement and visual interest in the final images.
When Choosing Your Outfits: Consider the Season
Your session location can shape your outfit choices just as much as the time of year. This family of five had done grassy field sessions in California before and wanted something with more edge, so we went for city vibes. Their darker neutral outfits fit perfectly with the urban architecture of this historic neighborhood, we even found a moody alleyway nearby that added a unique city element to their gallery.
It’s a great example of how letting your setting guide you makes every styling decision feel seamless, and creates a look that’s cohesive and true to you.
Let the location and season guide what to wear for family photos
Their choice of darker neutrals was perfect for the architectural background of this historic neighborhood. This family shows how your location can guide your outfit choices for family photos. Their outfits communicated a city vibe, creating timeless and authentic images.
Let’s recap what to wear for family photos:
- Start with neutral colors as a base so that adding additional colors will be easier.
- Throw on a hat, jacket, or beanie. Accessories like these are such an easy way to add personality.
- Dress for the season and the location so that your images feel authentic.
- Don’t want to commit to one outfit? Bring a backup! Extra outfits will only add more interest.
- Keep it simple. Focus on what feels good to you, not what’s trending on social media.
If you’re looking for an Orange County family photographer to guide you every step of the way, from styling to location to natural posing, I’m here for you. When you book a session with me, you’ll get access to my detailed styling guide to make this process easier and way less stressful. Visit my online booking page to learn more about my session packages. Or head over to my contact page to start planning your session.
