What to Wear for a Family Photoshoot

Start With Mum’s Outfit First

When planning family outfits, I always recommend starting with mum’s outfit. Choose something you feel comfortable and confident in, then build the rest of the family’s outfits around that colour palette. Soft flowing dresses, textured fabrics, and natural tones photograph beautifully and add movement to your images. Once mum’s outfit is chosen, you can coordinate everyone else’s colours around it.

Choose 2–3 Complementary Colours

Instead of matching outfits, aim for two or three colours that work well together. This keeps photos looking natural and avoids that overly “matchy” look.

Beautiful colour palettes include:

• Cream, beige, and soft browns

• Sage green, ivory, and tan

• Soft blues, denim, and white

• Rust tones, oatmeal, and warm neutrals

These tones photograph beautifully outdoors and create a calm, timeless feel.

Soft Fabrics Photograph Beautifully

The texture of clothing can add depth and warmth to photographs.

Fabrics that photograph especially well include:

• Linen

• Cotton

• Knitwear

• Soft flowing fabrics

• Layered textures

These materials catch natural light beautifully and help create that relaxed, storytelling feel.





Avoid Logos and Busy Patterns

While everyday clothing is perfect for real life, logos and bold prints can distract in photographs.

For the most timeless images, try to avoid:

• Large logos

• Neon colours

• Busy patterns

• Characters or graphic prints

Keeping clothing simple allows the focus to stay on expressions, connection, and emotion.

Balance.

Don’t Match One of the biggest misconceptions is that everyone needs to wear the same colour. Instead, aim for balance.

For example:

Mum – soft cream dress

Dad – neutral shirt and denim

Child – cream or beige jumper

Baby – soft natural knit

The colours complement each other without looking identical.

Keep Accessories Minimal

Simple accessories can add interest to photographs, but less is often more.

Lovely additions might include:

• Soft hats

• Delicate necklaces

• Hair bows for little ones

• Textured layers like cardigans

The goal is to add personality without overwhelming the photo.

Shoes Matter More Than You Think

Shoes often appear in photographs, especially during walking or play moments.

Neutral options work best, such as:

• Barefoot (especially for little ones)

• Sandals

• Neutral boots

• Simple trainers

Try to avoid very bright or heavily branded footwear if possible.

Comfort Is Key Children rarely sit perfectly still, and that’s completely okay. The best photos happen when children are comfortable and able to move naturally.

Choose clothing that allows them to:

• run

• play

• cuddle

• explore

Natural moments always create the most meaningful images.



A Little Preparation Goes a Long Way

Before your session it can also help to bring a few simple things along:

• Spare clothes for little ones

• Snacks and water

• Wet wipes for quick clean ups

• A favourite comfort toy

Prepared parents always have the most relaxed sessions.

The Most Important Thing

Outfits help set the tone, but they aren’t the most important part of your photos. The real magic comes from the connection between you and your family.

The laughter, the cuddles, and the quiet in-between moments.

My job is simply to guide you gently and capture those moments as they naturally unfold.