What to Wear for a Family Photo Session - The Do's and Don'ts
- Jan 28
- 3 min read
Updated: Mar 6
Choosing what to wear for your family or couple photo session can feel like a big challenge. You want to look your best, but you also want to feel comfortable and natural in front of the camera. The right outfit can make a huge difference in how your photos turn out. It helps your personalities shine through while keeping the focus on YOU, not just on what you're wearing. This guide will walk you through some simple do’s and don’ts to help you decide what to wear for a family photo session. You'll create beautiful family photos to look back on and enjoy for years to come.
Take Me to Outfit Color Palettes
Do Choose Clothes That Make You Feel Comfortable (This is My Number 1 Tip!)
Pick outfits that fit well and make you feel good. If you’re constantly adjusting your clothes or feeling restricted, it will show in your photos.
Wear something that reflects your everyday style. Your photos should capture the real you, so don’t pick an outfit you wouldn’t normally wear.
Consider the weather and location. Dress appropriately so you’re not too cold or too hot during your photography session.
Don’t Choose Clothes That Feel Forced
Avoid outfits that feel like a fashion statement just for the photoshoot. Especially if they don’t represent your usual style.
Avoid clothes that make you self-conscious. Don’t be uncomfortable in extra-tight garments or unfamiliar materials.
Do Use Block Complementary Colors
Choose solid colors that complement each other rather than clash. Check out some of my color palette suggestions below.
Pick a color palette of 3-4 colors and have everyone stick to it. This keeps the focus on faces and emotions, not busy patterns.
You can use neutral tones like beige, grey, navy, or white as a base. Then add a pop of color with accessories.
Don’t Mix Too Many Patterns or Bright Colors
Avoid busy patterns. Clashing patterns like large florals, stripes, or polka dots can distract from your faces.
Steer clear of very bright colors. This may draw attention away from the rest of the group.
Do Consider Matching Outfits for a Fun, Cohesive Look
Matching outfits can be especially fun for holiday photos or themed sessions.
You don’t have to wear identical clothes; matching colors or styles works well.
For example, everyone could wear denim jeans with white tops or stick to a white and beige theme.
Don’t Force Everyone to Wear the Same Exact Outfit
Avoid making everyone wear the exact same thing unless it feels natural and comfortable.
Forcing identical outfits can look unnatural, especially if some family members dislike the style.
Instead, aim for similar yet different styles that suit each person’s personality.
Do Think About Layers and Textures to Add Interest
Layering with jackets or cardigans adds depth and dimension to your photos.
Mix textures like knitwear, denim, cotton, and suede to create a fuller look.
Layers also give you options to change your look quickly during your photo session without a full outfit change.
Don’t Wear Distracting Jewelry
Keep accessories simple and minimal so they don’t distract from what's important - YOU!
Special jewelry can be something to consider for a photoshoot on a big occasion.
Do Coordinate Shoes and Keep Them Clean
Shoes are often overlooked but can affect the overall look in your pictures.
Choose shoes that fit the outfit style and location (boots for outdoors, clean sneakers for casual photoshoots).
Make sure shoes are clean and in good condition.
Below Are Some Color Palette Ideas for What to Wear for a Family Photo Session
Most Importantly...
Be Comfy and Be Yourself!
When you feel good, it shows in your photos. So relax and enjoy the moment. Remember, the goal is to capture your genuine selves. Whether you're laughing, hugging, or just being silly, those are the moments that will make your photos special.
Meg Hudson Photography is a professional photographer in Pasadena, CA. Taking couple and family photos in Pasadena, South Pasadena, and other Los Angeles Counties. Find out more about Meg HERE.
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What a genuinely helpful guide — the tip about wearing outfits that reflect your everyday style rather than dressing up just for the camera is something I really needed to hear! I always overthink it and end up looking stiff in photos because I'm in something unfamiliar. The color palette suggestions are especially practical. Funnily enough, planning a family photo session feels a lot like juggling multiple deadlines — my cousin was recently swamped trying to manage her coursework and turned to a Finance Assignment Writing Service UK to get some breathing room, which reminded her to focus on what actually matters. That same mindset applies here: simplify the details, focus on the people, and the rest falls into place.…
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