This blog post may contain affiliate links. I may earn a small commission for any purchases made through these links.

My Most Asked Question Answered

A few weeks ago, I asked my followers on Instagram Stories how I could help make shopping easier and one of the top responses I got was family photoshoot outfit ideas. You guys had so many questions from what colors to wear to how to make sure the kids are comfortable and what actually looks good on camera. So today, I’m sharing my go-to tips for dressing your crew for family photos that are timeless, cohesive, and just feel like you – here’s your complete styling guide!

Whether you’re planning for a fall shoot or beachy summer portraits, these tips will help you feel confident in your outfit choices so the focus stays on your beautiful family.

1. Start With Your Outfit First (Yes, You!)

This is always where I begin. As moms, our outfits are usually the hardest to pick. Start with something you feel confident and beautiful in – whether that’s a flowy dress, a cozy sweater and jeans, or something in between. Once you’ve found your look, you can build everyone else’s outfits around it. Trust me, it makes everything else fall into place so much easier.

2. Stick to a Neutral Color Palette – with a Pop

Neutrals keep your photos classic and timeless. Think ivory, soft tan, taupe, oatmeal, sage, dusty blue, or even muted rust tones.

It’s also smart to think about where you’ll be displaying these photos in your home. Will the backdrop and your clothing colors complement your decor? Choosing a neutral color palette not only keeps your photos ageless, but it also helps them blend easily into your space when framed or hung on the wall.

Adding in one subtle color can bring life to your photos. Keep it to 2–3 colors max to avoid things looking too busy.

3. Texture > Pattern

Instead of mixing a bunch of patterns (which can feel distracting), try mixing textures. Think linen, gauze, lace, cotton, corduroy, denim, cashmere, or waffle knits. Texture adds dimension to your photos and adds depth without looking too busy.

For warmer months, I love linen, gauze, and lightweight denim. For cooler weather, you can go with cozy knits, corduroy, or layered fabrics like waffle cotton or cashmere.

If you love patterns and really want to incorporate them, a good rule of thumb is to have one person in a pattern – two at most. The rest of the family can wear solids or textured pieces to balance it out. If everyone’s wearing a print, the photo will start to look busy.

4. Go for Movement

Adding a little movement, like a flowy skirt, dress, or even a lightweight top creates natural motion in your photos and adds visual interest. These pieces look so good when caught in the wind or when you’re walking together as a family.

5. Keep Kids Comfy

The best family photos happen when your kids are comfortable and happy. That means soft clothes, nothing itchy, and shoes that are appropriate for wherever you’re shooting. Layers are your friend – especially for cooler days – so you can adjust on the spot without fuss.

Keep it simple for little ones – Suspenders, hats, and other accessories might look cute, but they often don’t stay in place, especially on younger kids. The simpler the outfit, the less adjusting you’ll have to do mid-shoot. Comfort and ease always win when it comes to dressing kids for photos.

6. Match the Mood, Not the Outfit

You don’t all have to wear the same thing. Instead of matching perfectly, aim to coordinate colors and tones without matching outfits exactly. Think of the outfits like a color story. If you’re wearing a creamy dress, maybe your partner wears khaki pants and a white button-down, and your kids are in a mix of soft blue and linen tones. It’s more about harmony than being identical.

Styling the whole family in identical outfits – white tops and jeans, for example – can be super cute, but may eventually feel a bit outdated and doesn’t really reflect your family’s unique style.

7. Feel Like You

This might be the most important one. If you’re not comfortable in what you’re wearing, it will show. Pick pieces that feel natural to your style. If you’re not a dress person, don’t force yourself into one. If your child hates buttons, skip them. Authenticity always looks the best on camera and is one less thing to hassle about!

Things to Avoid:

• Bold prints or logos: These take attention away from your faces and can date your photos.
• Trends: They might feel fun right now, but trends don’t always age well. We’ve all looked back at old photos and thought, “What were we thinking?” Stick with classic, timeless styles that you’ll still love years from now.
• Shoes that don’t work for the location: If you’re shooting in a field, avoid slick dress shoes. If it’s a beach session, barefoot is often best.
• All-white or all-black outfits: They tend to lose detail on camera and can look flat. Mix in shades and textures instead.
• Uncomfortable or Restrictive Clothing: Comfort is key. If you’re constantly adjusting straps, pulling down a hem, or feeling restricted, it will show in the photos. Choose clothing you can move, hug, and play in; you want to feel relaxed and confident.

If you’re planning your family photos soon, I hope this helps take the stress off your shoulders. Let me know if you want tips for getting through your next family shoot with ease, how to achieve candid and natural photos without looking too “posey,” or any other specific questions you may have!

Need more inspo?

Visit my Pinterest page for more styling ideas for your family photoshoot or follow me on Instagram for more inspiration!