A Guide: What To Wear To A Family Photo Session

I’m often asked how to dress for family photos, and honestly, it’s such a great question! Every family is unique, and no two sessions are the same. That said, I’ve picked up some tried-and-true tips over the years that seem to work beautifully for almost any photo session. Here are my favorites to help you feel confident and photo-ready on the big day:

Comfort is key!
Family photo sessions are all about capturing your natural connection and joy. When you feel comfortable in your clothes, it’s easier to relax and enjoy the moment. Choose outfits that let you move, laugh, and snuggle freely.

Contrast is your friend.
Think about your surroundings and try to stand out from them. If your session is in a lush, green park, avoid blending in with greens and browns. On an overcast day, skip the whites and greys and opt for a pop of color to brighten things up.

Coordinate, don’t match.
I love seeing families in outfits with a cohesive color palette rather than everyone wearing the same thing. A mix of three colors works wonderfully — one neutral (like grey, black, or denim) paired with two complementary tones. It keeps things visually interesting without being distracting.

Don’t forget the shoes!
Your footwear can pull your whole look together. Think boots, ballet flats, or classic slip-on sneakers like Converse, Toms, or Sperrys. A stylish, comfortable shoe can elevate your outfit and tie it all together.

Layer up in cooler weather.
When it’s chilly, bundle up in style! A peacoat paired with cozy accessories like scarves, mittens, and hats can add charm and warmth to your look. Just make sure you’re warm enough — it’s hard to enjoy the session if you’re shivering!

What to avoid.
Logos and characters on clothing can distract from the true focus of your photos: you! Skip the bold graphics and let your personality shine through instead.

Embrace the imperfect.
Not every shot will have everyone looking at the camera or smiling perfectly, and that’s okay! Some of the most magical moments happen in candid, unposed shots that capture your family being yourselves.

Above all, wear what makes you feel good. A family photo session isn’t about perfection — it’s about celebrating your connection and capturing those fleeting moments together. 💛