How to choose outfits that look timeless, feel comfortable, and shine on camera

Choosing what to wear for your family session is one of the most important steps, and often one of the most stressful. You want everyone to look great together, feel comfortable, and have photos that stand the test of time. My What to Wear Guide (included for every booking) is designed to help, but here are some essential tips and expanded ideas to make everything come together beautifully.


1. Start with your outfit (especially mom’s!)

Pick your own outfit first, your choice sets the tone. Whether it’s a long flowy dress, elevated jeans and blazer, or a cozy sweater and skirt, your outfit should feel like you, but elevated. Once you choose it, build everyone else’s outfits around your colors and style.  Us women tend to be hardest on ourselves, so choosing an outfit you feel great in will help make you and subsequently, your family, feel most comfortable.

A family in matching floral dresses walks and plays together in a sunlit grassy field during golden hour.

2. Stick to a cohesive color palette

Choose 3–5 complementary colors.  Think soft neutrals, muted tones, or seasonal colors that match your location (e.g. earth tones by a beach, warm rusts in autumn foliage) . Too many bold prints can be distracting, and full matching outfits often look overly staged.

A group stands together on a leaf-covered forest path during autumn with golden trees surrounding them.

3. Use textures & subtle patterns

Texture adds dimension.  Consider knits, lace, corduroy, linen, while a single patterned piece can add visual interest without overwhelming the image. Mix in movement friendly fabrics like chiffon or knit for flow and depth.

Family enjoying a golden sunset together in a lush green park on a warm summer evening.

4. Make comfort a priority

Clothes that fit well and allow movement are key, especially when toddlers are involved. Avoid itchy, tight, or stiff outfits and opt for layers or flexible fabrics so you can sit, stand, and cuddle without fuss .

A warm sunset illuminates a beach scene by the ocean as three figures pose together on the sand.

5. Avoid distracting patterns and bright colors

Graphic tees, neon colors, and loud logos stand out, and not in a good way. Stick to soft hues or one accent color. If someone wears a pattern, balance it with solid neutrals in the rest of the family.

A family stands together on green grass with a marsh and trees visible in the background.

6. Pick location appropriate shoes and accessories

Consider where we’re shooting. Heels might not work on a beach, opt for sandals or go barefoot. Hats, scarves, and jewelry can add interest, but should be used sparingly to avoid drawing attention away from faces.

A family enjoys an autumn day playing on a leaf-covered path in the woods during golden hour sunset.

7. Coordinate, don’t match

You want unity, not uniformity. Coordinated tones create depth. No one needs to be in the same color, so choose shades that complement each other and your setting instead.

A quiet paved path through autumn woods with fall foliage and warm golden sunlight filtering through the trees.

8. Plan for weather and seasonal considerations

Dress for the weather.  Light, breathable clothes in summer;  layers, jackets, and boots in fall/winter. Bring extra layers like cozy scarves or blankets. These look great and keep you warm or prepared for kids who may want to snuggle .

A family sits together on a white blanket in a wooded outdoor setting during autumn.

9. Bring layers, backups & plan ahead

Set outfits out the night before and check for wrinkles or stains. Toddlers especially may require a quick change, so pack backup outfits and stay flexible.

Family enjoying a playful moment together in an autumn field at sunset with fall foliage in the background.

10. Still unsure what to wear?

Be sure to reference my full What to Wear Guide. It includes color palette suggestions, outfit inspiration for every family member, and even visual examples to help you feel fully confident when planning your session wardrobe.

Four candid outdoor family portrait photographs taken at sunset with autumn trees in the background.

Your Family Session Should Reflect You

Your wardrobe should feel authentic and relaxed. When everyone is comfortable, confident, and cohesive, your session becomes relaxed, and that shows in the genuine smiles, warm connections, and heartfelt moments we capture.

💌 Ready to style your family for a session?

I’m here to help! You’ll get personalized outfit suggestions, access to my client closet, and a collaborative styling process so you feel confident and look your best.

👉 See more info here regarding family sessions

👉 Contact me for booking info!