Deciding what to wear to your family photo session can be fun for those who love fashion and purchasing clothes for their family. But for many mothers, choosing outfits for everyone in their family, and especially for themselves, can be a source of dread. As a Seattle family photographer, here are five tips to help you feel confident in selecting your outfits and excited about heading into a family photo shoot.

Don’t run out and buy all new clothes

You have made an investment by purchasing a family photo session, so of course purchasing new clothing may be something you want to do. However, rather than breaking the bank on new clothes, consider that there may be some things in your family’s closets already that will work. When I am planning what my own family will wear for our photo session, I head into the kids’ closets first. Kids are easy to shop for, fun to dress, and outgrow their clothes the fastest. Therefore, they usually have fairly new clothes in their closet already. Consider that recently purchased back to school outfit, shirt from school pictures, or Easter outfit. Usually, for one of my kids, if not both, I have a favorite outfit I love seeing them in. So I start there.

Fall family photo session in tall grass at Juanita Bay Park in Kirkland with styled clothing

Come up with a color palette

After selecting a couple options that I like from my kids’ closets, I put them together and see if there are any common color themes. Usually, there will be a couple colors that compliment each other. Color themes often happen naturally because manufacturers focus on color trends each season. In Spring you’ll find light, bright colors like pink, coral, periwinkle, aqua, pear, and lavender. In the Fall you’ll see darker tones such as olive, plum, rose, mustard, navy, and burnt orange. When looking at your clothing options, look for a theme of 2-3 colors and then you can add in neutrals such as denim, khakis, or grey.

What to wear for a Bellevue family photo session on beach at Luther Burbank park in the summer

Consider a mix of solids, patterns, and textures when selecting what to wear

Small patterns and texture add interest and sophistication to your outfit selections. As a rule of thumb, you can mix a small pattern (such as floral) with a stripe (or plaid), and a couple solids. These patterns should reflect your color palette and each pattern compliment the next without overpowering one another or stealing the show. Often, Dad is easiest to dress in a solid t-shirt, polo, dress shirt, or a nicely textured sweater. Solid clothing can calm down patterns and tie together colors found in the selected patterns.

What to wear to a Kirkland summer family photo session in field of tall grass at sunset

Make sure mom is happy with her outfit

Many photographers will tell mom to pick out her outfit first when writing a What To Wear guide. This is because moms are often the most critical of themselves in photographs. But deciding what to wear can be overwhelming when you have everyone else’s outfits to put together. This is why I suggest starting with what’s in everyone else’s closet first to narrow down the playing field (unless of course, mom has a favorite outfit already, and then, by all means, start there!). Once a color palette has been selected, and several of your family members’ outfits are decided, Mom can decide if she has something to match or go shopping for something new! Since sessions are full of movement, make sure you are comfortable in what you decide to wear. When holding children or sitting together to snuggle, a neckline that plunges too low or a skirt that is too short will cause Mom to focus on fixing her outfit during her session rather than connecting with her family. Fabrics that flow offer nice movement in photographs and allow mom the freedom to move around comfortably.

Fall family session in dressy casual clothing walking down landscaped path in Seattle

Do the squint test

When helping clients, I always ask that they lay their outfits together on the floor or bed. I suggest laying mom and dad’s outfits down first and then overlap them with the kids’ clothing. Then snap a picture on your cell phone or simply squint your eyes and take a look. Make sure nothing stands out and your color palette and patterns all blend together. Items that often stand out are large logos or slogans on shirts, colors that are too vibrant (neons and primary colors), and shoes that look worn out or don’t match the style of your clothing.

What to wear for Fall family photo session laughing and snuggling at Juanita Bay park in fallen leaves in Seattle

Finally, remember that your family’s love and connection (view my portfolio) will stand out more than what you wear. Families who are comfortable and can move around easily and freely will feel happier and more true to themselves. It’s important to remember your family’s authentic style so what you notice first when you look at your photos is how you felt when you were together.

Check out Tips for Preparing for Your Family Photoshoot and Tips for Beautiful Connection in Your Family Photos.

Feeling confident and ready for your family photo session? Click below to contact me about calendar openings.

Book Now