Outfit tips that look great on camera (and won’t cause a family meltdown)

If the thought of dressing your whole family for photos makes you want to reschedule the shoot — you’re not alone. Coordinating outfits for multiple people, across ages and styles, and somehow making it all look good on camera? Not easy. But it doesn’t have to be overwhelming.

Here’s a simple guide to choosing outfits for your family session that feel like you, photograph beautifully, and won’t cause a meltdown (from you or the kids).

1. Start with a Color Palette, Not Matching Outfits

Instead of everyone wearing the same color shirt, choose a color story. Pick 2–3 base colors (like cream, olive, rust, soft blue, or gray) and then mix in a few accent tones. This keeps things cohesive but allows each person’s style to show through.

📸 Bonus: Neutral tones tend to photograph best — they don’t reflect weird color casts and they keep the focus on faces.

2. Think Textures, Not Patterns

Knits, linen, denim, and cotton all add subtle texture that brings your images to life — without the distraction of loud patterns or logos. If someone does want to wear a pattern, keep it minimal and let that person be the only one wearing it.

🧢 Avoid: graphic tees, athletic logos, or anything neon. Cameras are brutally honest with those.

3. Dress for the Season — and the Setting

If we’re shooting outdoors in the fall, bring out layers: a chunky cardigan, scarf, or corduroy jacket. In summer, flowy dresses and short sleeves keep things comfortable and timeless.

🌿 Pro tip: Think about how your outfit will move. Long dresses or flowy tops add beautiful motion to photos, especially with a breeze.

4. Keep Kids Comfortable First

Yes, it’s a photo shoot — but it’s also real life. Choose clothes that let your kids move, sit, jump, and hug without fussing or itching. If a dress or outfit is brand new, let them try it on a few days before so it’s not a shock on photo day.

🧃 Also: bring backup clothes in the car. Just in case.

5. Lay Everything Out Together First

Before the shoot, lay all the outfits on your bed and take a step back. Do the colors feel like they belong together? Is one item way louder than the rest? Does anything need to be swapped for balance? Seeing it all laid out helps you catch mismatches early.

Final Thoughts:

The goal isn’t perfection, it’s presence. Your kids won’t remember if they had the “right” shoes on. They’ll remember that you were all together, laughing, cuddling, and making time for memories.

And if you ever need a second opinion on your outfits? I’ve got you. Every client I work with gets styling help before the session so we can make sure everything feels just right no stress necessary.

Want to plan a session that feels relaxed, fun, and actually looks like your family?

Book your session below.