Simple guidance to help your family look and feel their best on session day
What your family wears to a photo session can make a big difference—not just in how the photos look, but in how confident and comfortable everyone feels. The good news? Styling for a family session doesn’t have to be stressful or complicated. With a little planning and a few simple guidelines, you can create a timeless, cohesive look that lets your family’s personality shine.
Start with comfort first
The most important styling rule is comfort. If someone feels awkward or restricted in their outfit, it will show in the photos. Choose clothing that allows everyone—especially children—to move, sit, and play easily. Soft fabrics and well-fitted pieces help everyone relax, which leads to more natural expressions and genuine moments.
Coordinate, don’t match
Instead of dressing everyone in the exact same outfit, aim for coordination. Choose a color palette of two to four complementary tones and mix them across family members. This creates visual harmony without looking overly staged. Neutrals like cream, beige, gray, soft blues, and earthy tones photograph beautifully and keep the focus on faces and connection.
Keep patterns simple
Solid colors and subtle textures work best on camera. If you do choose patterns, keep them minimal and limit them to one or two people. Avoid large logos, bold graphics, or busy prints, as they can distract from your family’s expressions and date the photos quickly.
Layer for depth and interest
Layers add dimension and flexibility to your look. Cardigans, light jackets, scarves, or vests not only photograph well but also allow quick outfit adjustments during the session. Layers help create a polished, intentional appearance without feeling formal.
Think timeless, not trendy
Trendy pieces can look fun now but may feel outdated in a few years. For family portraits meant to last, classic styles are always a safe choice. Simple silhouettes, neutral tones, and clean lines ensure your photos remain beautiful and relevant over time.
Pay attention to footwear
Shoes are often overlooked, but they matter—especially for outdoor sessions. Choose clean, neutral shoes that complement the outfits. Avoid athletic shoes unless the session is casual and playful. Barefoot sessions can also work beautifully for beach or home settings.
Plan ahead and try everything on
A few days before the session, have everyone try on their outfits from head to toe. This helps avoid last-minute surprises like missing buttons, tight fits, or uncomfortable shoes. It also gives you time to make small adjustments if needed.
