Planning a family photoshoot can feel overwhelming, but let’s take the stress out of at least one part of it: what to wear! Choosing outfits that look great on camera and keep everyone comfy doesn’t have to be a chore. With a little planning and these simple tips, you’ll have timeless photos that capture your family’s personality perfectly.
1. Seasonal Vibes: Dress for the Time of Year
Your photoshoot outfits should reflect the season you’re in, not just for aesthetics but for comfort, too. Cozy sweaters and scarves for fall, breezy linen and sandals for summer—embracing the weather makes the photos feel natural. Bonus: it keeps everyone happy when they’re dressed appropriately!
- Spring: Flowy dresses, pastel shirts, and lightweight layers. Think florals, soft blues, and sage greens.
- Summer: Cotton fabrics, relaxed fits, and sandals. Try whites, tan tones, or a pop of coral for energy.
- Fall: Rich colors like burgundy, mustard, and navy, paired with boots and cozy knits. Layers like cardigans or scarves add texture.
- Winter: Wool coats, boots, and textured pieces like cable knits or faux fur. Stick to darker tones with touches of cream or deep reds for contrast.
2. Earthy Tones for the Win
Earthy tones are your best friend for family photos. They’re timeless, flattering on almost everyone, and they blend beautifully with natural backdrops. Think soft browns, tans, olive greens, and rust oranges. These tones keep the focus on your family rather than loud patterns or bold colors.
Tip: Coordinate your colors without being too matchy-matchy. For example, if one person wears olive green, someone else could wear cream, and another could opt for a warm rust color. The palette ties together effortlessly.
3. Accessories: The Secret to Variety
Accessories are the easiest way to add variety and personality to your photos. Hats, scarves, belts, or statement jewelry can completely change a look without needing an outfit change. For example:
- A wide-brimmed hat for mom in a few shots.
- A cute bowtie or suspenders for the kids.
- A patterned scarf draped over someone’s shoulder.
Just be mindful not to over-accessorize. Keep it simple so the focus stays on your family, not the props.
4. Leave the Smartwatch at Home
Here’s a pro tip that might not cross your mind: ditch the modern gadgets! While your smartwatch is handy IRL, it can make your photos look dated down the road. The same goes for clunky keychains in your pocket or visible phones. Tuck them away, and keep things clean and classic.
5. Keep Comfort in Mind
No matter how cute an outfit looks, if someone isn’t comfortable, it’s going to show. Make sure everyone feels good in what they’re wearing. Kids especially need to be able to move and play, so avoid anything overly fussy or restrictive.
6. Coordinate, Don’t Clone
The days of everyone wearing identical white shirts and jeans are long gone (thank goodness). Instead, aim for complementary outfits that share a color palette or vibe without looking uniform. Think of it as creating a mood board with your clothes.
Final Thoughts: Relax and Enjoy!
The most important part of your family photoshoot is capturing the love and connection you share—not achieving “perfect” outfits. These tips are here to make the process smoother, but don’t sweat the small stuff. Sometimes, the quirks and imperfections are what make your family photos truly yours.
