How to Plan Your Family Photo Outfits
Picking outfits for family photos can feel like a full-blown production, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming! Here’s how to plan the perfect looks for your session without stressing out.
1. Know Your Location
Start by thinking about where your photos will be. The environment will help guide your outfit choices. A beach setting might call for soft, neutral tones, while a lush green park would benefit from colors that don’t blend in with the backdrop. Keep the surroundings in mind to make sure your family stands out, but not in a distracting way.
2. Start with Mom’s Outfit
Let's be real—Mom often has the hardest time finding the perfect look. So, pick your outfit first! You deserve to feel confident and fabulous. I always suggest long, flowy dresses or skirts for a flattering, timeless look. Once you find your outfit, you can start building everyone else's around it.
3. Choose Your Color Palette
After Mom’s outfit is locked in, create a color palette that complements it. Aim for 3-4 coordinating colors that look good together. Think soft, muted tones like sage, ivory, blush, and khaki. Avoid anything too bold (like bright reds or oranges) that could create harsh reflections or distract from your beautiful family!
4. Dress the Girls
Next up, it’s time to dress the little ladies! Girls tend to have more outfit options—dresses, skirts, or jumpsuits—so pick something that complements the color palette. Layers and textures like denim jackets or cardigans add depth to the look and are adorable.
5. Dress the Boys Last
The guys are easy! Start with Dad and build around his look with a well-fitted outfit—slim dark jeans, a simple shirt, and clean shoes work perfectly for casual sessions. For the little guys, shorts or overalls are fine for younger ages, while older boys should stick to pants.
6. Don’t Forget Prints & Patterns!
One family member can rock a print or pattern, but keep it limited to one to avoid clashing. Think plaid, stripes, or florals. If anyone’s outfit feels flat, add layers (a scarf, jacket, or vest) or incorporate different textures to elevate the look. Layers also add depth and dimension to your photos, making them more visually interesting.
Bonus Tip: Have Fun with Textures
Mixing fabrics and textures—like chiffon, denim, and silk—brings extra richness to your family’s outfits and keeps the whole look dynamic. Play around with it to give everyone a stylish edge!
With these simple tips, coordinating family outfits can actually be a fun process, and your photos will come out looking fabulous!
