What to Wear for Family Photos: A Family Photographer's Guide
One of the most common questions I get as a family photographer is, "What should we wear for our family photos?"
The good news is that choosing outfits does not have to be stressful. The right clothing can help your photos feel timeless, cohesive, and authentic to your family. The goal is not to create perfect outfits. The goal is to help your family's connection shine through.
If you're planning a family photography session in Keller, Southlake, Grapevine, Colleyville, Watauga, or anywhere in the DFW area, here are my favorite tips for choosing what to wear.
Coordinate Instead of Matching
Gone are the days when everyone wore the exact same white shirt and jeans.
Instead, choose colors that complement one another. When family members wear coordinating colors rather than matching outfits, the images feel more natural and visually interesting.
Start with one outfit you love and build the rest of the family's wardrobe around it. Select colors that work together without being identical.
Choose Soft, Neutral Colors
Neutral and earthy tones photograph beautifully in almost every setting. Some of my favorite colors for family portraits include:
- Cream
- Beige
- Rust
- Olive green
- Dusty blue
- Soft brown
- Warm gray
These colors help keep the focus on your family rather than your clothing. They also tend to look beautiful displayed as wall art in your home.
Avoid Busy Patterns and Large Logos
Patterns are not always bad, but they should be used carefully.
Large logos, bright graphics, and busy prints can pull attention away from faces and expressions. If you love patterns, consider using them on just one family member while keeping the rest of the outfits simpler.
When in doubt, simplicity almost always wins.
Wear Something That Feels Like You
The best family photos happen when everyone feels comfortable. If you constantly tug at a dress, dislike a shirt, or feel uncomfortable in an outfit, it will show in the final images.
Choose clothing that fits well, feels comfortable, and reflects your personality. Family photos should feel like your family, not a version of your family that only exists for picture day.
Add Texture and Layers
Texture creates visual interest without overwhelming the image. Consider incorporating:
- Linen
- Knits
- Denim
- Lace
- Flowy fabrics
- Layered outfits
These details add dimension and movement to your photos, especially during outdoor family sessions in the DFW area.
Think About Where Your Photos Will Be Displayed
This is one of the most overlooked outfit tips.Before choosing your clothing, think about where you plan to display your portraits. Will they hang in your living room? Above the fireplace? In a hallway gallery wall? The colors you wear should complement your home's style and color palette. This helps your finished artwork feel like it truly belongs in your space.
As a boutique family photographer, this is one reason I meet with clients before their session. Together, we can plan images that not only look beautiful but also fit perfectly within your home.
Barefoot Is Often a Great Choice
For in-home sessions, barefoot is almost always my recommendation. For outdoor sessions, barefoot can also create a relaxed and timeless feel when the location allows for it, but watch out for ant hills!
Without shoes drawing attention, the focus stays on connection, movement, and emotion.
Keep It Simple
The most important thing to remember is that your family is the focus. Your children will not remember whether everyone wore the perfect shade of beige. They will remember the laughter, hugs, and moments you shared together.
Years from now, the connection captured in your portraits will matter far more than any clothing trend.
Need Help Choosing Outfits for Your Family Photos?
You do not have to figure it out alone.
When you book a family photography session with Amanda Corlew Photography, I help guide you through every step of the process, including wardrobe planning. Together, we'll choose clothing that photographs beautifully, complements your home, and helps you feel confident in front of the camera.
If you're looking for a family photographer in Keller, Southlake, Grapevine, Colleyville, Watauga, or the surrounding DFW area, I'd love to help you create portraits that your family will enjoy for generations.
