One question I get asked he most is, "What do I wear?" The good news is that choosing outfits for your family photo sessions doesn't have to be stressful. You don't need new, expensive, outfits or perfectly matching clothing to create beautiful pictures. As an experienced photographer, I've found that the best outfits are the ones that allow your family's personalities to shine. The goal is for your family photos to feel natural and authentically you. When everyone feels comfortable and confident in what they're wearing it allows for the best smiles!

Choose a Coordinating Color Palette


Instead of matching everyone in the exact same color, choose a palette of three to five coordinating colors. This creates a cohesive look while sill allowing each family member's personality o show through their outfits. Soft neutrals and earthy tones all photograph beautifully in natural light. These colors compliment outdoor settings and help to keep the focus on your family's connection in oppose to distracting clothing and colors.

A good approach to start is with one outfit you love, perhaps a child's outfit or mom's favorite dress and build everyone else's clothing around that.

Large family group portrait smiling together on a sandy beach at golden hour with marsh grass and ocean in background.
Three smiling people pose together on a sandy beach, wearing blue outfits, with water and trees in the background.
A joyful couple stands on a wooden dock by the water, lifting their baby in the air on a sunny day.
A smiling family of three poses outdoors, with parents in blue outfits holding a young toddler girl in a floral dress.
Happy family of five playing on a sandy beach at sunset, parents swinging children while holding hands.
Three smiling boys lying on sandy beach, posing together for a cheerful seaside family photo.
Family group portrait on sandy beach by water, smiling adults and children in coordinated blue and white outfits.

Dress For Your Location


Your surroundings should inspire your wardrobe choices. For beach sessions, think light and airy fabrics, like linen and cotton, or flowy dresses in soft neutrals. Bare feet often work well in the sand and add a more natural and relaxed feeling. For park or field sessions, earth tones, denim, comfortable. Comfort is especially important for children. Kids are happiest when they can run, play, and explore without worrying about uncomfortable clothing. Choose outfits that fit well and allow for movement. Avoid clothing that is stiff, itchy, or too tight. Shoes that are appropriate for your setting are important. If your shoot involves, walking through fields, parks or along the beach, wear footwear that is suitable for that location. When everyone feels comfortable, genuine smiles and natural interactions happen effortessly.

A smiling woman with red hair holds a baby on a sandy beach, both wearing red outfits on a cloudy day.
Happy family of four posing outdoors near a white picket fence, parents holding two young children.
Happy family of four posing outdoors in autumn park, parents smiling with young daughter holding newborn baby.

Consider The Season


The time of year plays a big role in choosing outfits. Dressing with the season in mind ensures your family stays comfortable through the session. In chilly weather, having your children wear summery outfit, although they may be cute, is not ideal. If your children are cold, they will be uncomfortable and grouchy, which will not make for good photos. If its fall consider wearing a nice sweater or flannel. During winter, heavier layers may be necessary to keep warm, like a hat or light jacket. Spring and summer are the seasons for soft and breathable clothing. The beaches can get hot, so make sure not to be overdressed, or wear layers that can be easily removed.


Happy family of five posing together on a sandy beach shore with a calm river and green trees in the background.

Texture & Pattern


Textures and patterns are a simple way to add depth and personality to your family photos without overwhelming the image. Stick to simple designs, like florals, stripes, plaid, or small-scale prints. A good rule of thumb is two have only one or two family members wearing a noticeable pattern, while everyone else wear solid, coordinating colors. This keeps the image balanced and refrains from making it too busy. Another way to add unique dimension is through textures: knit, linen, denim, and lace are all fantastic materials that photograph beautifully without being too distracting.




Family of five posing on a sandy beach, parents and three young children dressed in white and khaki outfits.

What To Avoid


While a small floral print or subtle pattern can work well, try to avoid bold graphics, large logos, busy prints or colors that are too vibrant. These elements can pull attention away from your family. Keeping it clean and simple ensures that your images remain stylish and beautiful years from now. Matching everyone in the same exact outfit can look a bit forced and awkard. Instead, try to mix it up and have a variety of outfits for your family to choose from.


Six smiling family members pose together outdoors on a sunny day in a lush green garden setting.

Be Mindful of Details


Before your session, take a few minutes to think about finishing touches. Make sure clothing is clean and wrinkle-free, remove anything you'd rather not appear in photos, like smart watches or items in your pockets. Additionally, keep accessories simple and meaningful. These small details can make a big difference in your final images.