Family photos capture cherished moments and tell your family’s unique story. However, deciding what to wear for family photos can feel overwhelming and stressful. To make this process seamless and enjoyable, I’ve put together the ultimate style guide that ensures your family looks and feels their best.

What to wear for family photos?

Choosing the right outfits starts with creating a cohesive look that reflects your family’s personality and the session’s tone. Coordinated yet individualistic outfits make for visually pleasing and authentic family pictures. Here are some tips:

1. Start with Mom: Choose your standout outfit, like a bold-patterned dress, and plan the rest around it.
2. Start with a Color Palette: Pick 2-3 complementary colors to guide everyone’s outfits. This ensures harmony without being overly matchy-matchy. 
3. Mix Textures and Patterns: Add interest to your photos by combining textures like denim, knits, or lace. Use patterns sparingly, ensuring only one person wears a bold print.
4. Coordinate Accessories: Accessories like scarves, hats, or jewelry can tie outfits together while showcasing your style.

Mom is typically the one missing in pictures because she’s the one taking them. That is why I recommend she gets to choose the outfit for everyone to coordinate around. Plus, if you start with your kids, you’re left with, “Well, now what do I wear?”

Should we all match in our family photos?

The days of identical outfits, where everyone wears the same flannel shirt (I’m looking at you, Minnesotans), are long gone. While matching can create unity, it often lacks visual depth and individual style. Instead, aim for coordinated colors and varied styles:

• Avoid Exact Matches: Everyone should wear something that complements the chosen pattern without mirroring others exactly.
• Highlight Individuality: Let each family member express their personality within the chosen palette, but make sure they’re mom approved.

The goal is cohesion, not clones. This approach adds dimension and keeps your photos timeless.

Dress for the season.

Seasonality plays a huge role in determining what to wear. Dress comfortably and match the natural backdrop of your photos.

What to wear for spring family photos?

Spring sessions are full of fresh colors and blooming scenery.

• Colors: Pastels like lavender, blush pink, soft greens, and yellows.
• Textures: Light and airy fabrics such as linen and cotton.
• Accessories: Incorporate floral prints or delicate patterns to reflect the season.

What to wear for summer family photos?

Summer photos thrive on bright, cheerful tones and breathable fabrics.

• Colors: Whites, light blues, and soft coral shades.
• Textures: Flowing maxi dresses, linen shirts, or chinos.
• Footwear: Opt for comfortable sandals or espadrilles, avoiding heavy shoes.

What to wear for fall family photos?

Fall offers rich, warm hues and cozy layers.

• Colors: Burnt orange, mustard yellow, deep burgundy, and forest green.
• Textures: Knits, plaid patterns, and corduroy.
• Layers: Sweaters, scarves, and boots make excellent choices.

What to wear for winter family photos?

Winter sessions call for warmth and elegance, often with a holiday-inspired touch.

• Colors: Jewel tones like emerald green, royal blue, or cranberry red.
• Textures: Velvet, wool, and chunky knits.
• Outerwear: Coordinate coats, hats, and gloves to stay stylish in the cold.

Due to the cold and snow, taking family pictures in your home or at a studio is a great option. When you inquire about a family photo shoot for the winter period, let me know which one you prefer. If you opt for a studio session, please remember that the studio rental fee will be added to your session feel. I’ll provide a studio guide where you can view the photos of each studio and their rental prices. Studio rental prices vary between $50-$100 per hour depending on location and the time of year. You will only be charged for the time we use the studio for your session.  

What not to wear

Avoiding certain styles and choices can prevent distractions and ensure the focus stays on your family. Plus, these photos will be hung on your walls, added to scrapbooks, and part of photo albums; you want these photos to look great. So avoid:

• Neons and Bright Colors: These can cast unflattering tones on the skin and overpower the photo.
• Logos and Graphics: Avoid anything with large text, brand logos, or cartoon characters that can date the photo.
• Uncomfortable Clothing: If an outfit restricts movement or causes discomfort, it will show in the photos. Ensure everyone can move freely.
• Overly Trendy Items: While fun, trendy pieces can quickly feel outdated. Stick to classic and timeless looks.

What to wear summary

To make your family photo session a stress-free success, remember these key points:

• Pick a cohesive color palette that compliments your setting and family style. If you need help choosing a color palette, look to nature. Nature offers excellent earth tones and neutral colors that look great on everyone.
• Dress for the season, using textures and layers to add depth.
• Avoid neon colors, logos, and uncomfortable outfits.
• Coordinate without matching, letting each family member’s personality shine.

Following this ultimate style guide will make your family pictures a beautiful and timeless representation of your love and connection. After booking your family pictures with Kristen Elizabeth Photography, you’ll receive a comprehensive style guide with many more helpful styling tips to ensure the outfit planning process for your session is stress-free! You’ll also receive coupons to two local boutiques, Thread and Clover and A Bushel and A Peck.

Want to read more helpful and informative blogs like this one? Check out 5 Tips For Family Photo Outfits.