Family Photography Session Outfit Ideas
When planning a family photography session, selecting the right outfits can feel like a daunting task. The goal is to create a cohesive look that reflects your family’s personality while ensuring everyone is comfortable. The good news? You don't have to go out and buy new clothes to achieve this. Start by shopping your closet, and using your creativity to decide how you want to show up to your session feeling like YOU. At the end of the day, I just want to create photographs that tell your story, and what really matters is how you show up, not what you show up in.
Understanding Color Theory: Blending In or Standing Out
Color theory plays a role in how your photos will turn out. The colors you choose can either help your family blend harmoniously with the environment or make you stand out as the focal point. For example, if your session is in a natural setting like a park or beach, earthy tones such as soft greens, browns, and blues can help your family blend in with the surroundings, creating a serene and cohesive look.
On the other hand, if you want your family to stand out, consider choosing outfits that contrast with the environment. Bright colors like mustard yellow, deep red, or rich navy can pop against a natural backdrop, drawing attention to your family while still complementing the scene.
These are creative decisions that are up to you based on the mood you want your photos to convey! My recommendation? Go bold when the location is in a sweeping simple landscape (think the beach at low tide, or an expansive grassy field). When the location is a bit busier, opt for colors that complement and bring out the setting without creating too much distraction. One other consideration is the weather. It’s a bit harder to plan for, but think about the soft tones on an overcast day. On these cloudy days, bright pops of red and yellow can really stand out! Reminder: there are no strict rules here, just considerations based on your style and choices.
Creating a Cohesive Vision
To create a cohesive vision, consider the overall mood you want to convey. Once you’ve determined the essence and feeling, choose outfits that reflect it while coordinating with each other. When selecting colors, think about how they work together. Analogous colors—those next to each other on the color wheel, like blue and green—offer a subtle, harmonious palette. For a bolder approach, complementary colors—opposites on the color wheel, like blue and orange—can make your family stand out while still looking cohesive.
One way to ensure everyone’s outfits work well together is by selecting a color palette of three to four colors and sticking to it. This doesn’t mean everyone has to match exactly; rather, think of it as different notes in the same song. For instance, if your palette includes navy, cream, and rust, one person might wear a navy shirt, another a cream dress, and someone else a rust-colored sweater. By repeating these colors throughout your outfits, you’ll create a balanced and cohesive look.
You can see an inspiration board I’ve created here to explore ideas for styling.
I find so much inspiration from color palettes in nature photography and my favorite films. You can search for color palettes on Pinterest, or even look at some of your favorite photographs. Use a color picker tool (like one in Canva) on the image, and play around with creating your own unique color palette based on colors you actually like! Other tools, like Coolers, can even generate random color palettes for you based on combinations you may not have even considered.
Shopping Your Closet: Comfort First
Before heading out to buy new clothes, start by shopping your closet. Look for pieces that you already love and feel comfortable in—after all, you want your family to look and feel their best during the session. Comfort is key, especially for kids who may need to move around or play during the session.
Consider how each piece fits into your overall vision. Can you layer different items to add depth and interest? Could you add different textures, or incorporate a fabric that may flow in the breeze? By mixing and matching what you already own, you can create unique combinations that feel personal and authentic.
A pop of ochre on the socks brings out some color on this cold winter day
How to incorporate patterns during photography sessions
Patterns can add texture and interest to your photos, but it’s important to use them in a way that complements the other outfits, while not taking away from the moments of connection with your family. One tip: when incorporating patterns, choose one or two pieces with subtle designs and balance them with solid colors. For example, if one family member is wearing a floral dress, the others might wear solid colors that complement the tones in the pattern.
Another approach is to mix patterns of different scales—such as pairing a small floral print with a larger floral scarf. The key is to ensure that the patterns share a similar color palette so they don’t compete with each other. And again, there are no rules here! You can have two different patterns together - my favorite combination is a small floral and gingham - both timeless and playful.
An example of pattern clashing that works - drawing in nature themes from a forest session
Customized styling help
Outfit planning for a family photography session doesn’t have to be stressful. By understanding color theory, shopping your closet, and thoughtfully incorporating patterns, you can create a cohesive and comfortable look that reflects your family’s unique style. Whether you choose to blend in with the environment or stand out, the most important thing is that everyone feels good in what they’re wearing, allowing your family’s connection and intimate moments to be the focal point.
Kids will be kids! And sometimes they’ll just want to wear that princess dress. That’s ok! I’m all about documenting them as they truly are, and if that means they want to wear the dress, I’ll be here for it.
When planning your session I am available to help as much (or as little) with styling as you choose. I can send over ideas, or provide input on some options you’ve pulled from your closet. Ultimately, your clothing is just one tiny piece of your photographs. I want to ensure a stress-free process as you decide on what to wear, but also assure you that no matter what you choose to wear - what really matters is the energy and intimacy you bring to our time together.