Sometimes after scheduling a new family session, I get the question from them "What should I wear?".  And sometimes I don't, but wish that I did!  So from now on, I will refer my clients to this post for tips on selecting your family's outfits.

Back in the day, and still sometimes today, wearing matching clothes for a photo shoot was a big thing!  Especially the white T-shirt, denim jeans fad, or having all the kids wearing the same outfit.  No judgement if this is you!  Trust me, before I got into photography, I did this too!  I’m a mom and I think it’s so cute when I dress my boys in matching clothes!  But after photographing multiple families for some time now, I started to notice trends and what looks good versus what just… doesn’t.  So, I’m going to give you some tips of what to do and what not to do when choosing outfits for your upcoming family portrait session!

First things first, as I already mentioned, no matchy-matchy!  It’s flat, boring, and just doesn’t offer much dimension and color to the photos.  Not to mention it doesn’t make the kids stand out from one another, and we all know those kids have their own personality, so let them have their own outfit!  So, don’t match clothes, instead coordinate clothes with complementing colors and patterns.  I will include some color examples at the end!

Another thing I’ve noticed that’s not flattering (and frankly hard to edit!) in photos, is very bright, highly saturated colors, such as bright red, yellow, or even bright white.  When these types of colors are worn, the eye goes directly to that color and it almost always doesn’t seem to fit with the rest of the scenery, no matter what type of location you’re at!  So instead of bright, bold colors, try muted, more earth tone, or neutral colors.  Instead of red, try maroon.  Instead of yellow, go with mustard.  Instead of white, pick ivory.  You get the picture.

Along with bright, highly saturated colors, try to avoid dark colors as well such as black, dark blue or dark gray.  Especially if you prefer the light and airy photos, wearing dark colors will naturally make your photos seem darker and might give it a more moody vibe that you were not intending to go for.  Lighter, pastel colors work best! 

Something to keep in mind when selecting your outfits, is where your photos will be taken.  If we’re going to a wooded area, you might look a bit out of place with a formal gown and silk button up.  Sure, the outfits may look great on their own, but as they say in the real estate world, location, location, location! 

An easy way to decide on the wardrobe, is start with one outfit!  Generally, women wear more colors, so maybe find an outfit for mom first, and base the other outfits around her!  She can be the statement piece with a floral sundress and the rest of the family take colors from her dress and find clothes that compliment those colors. 

Solid colors that complement each other (not match) is usually a safe and simple way to go if you’re nervous to add too much pattern.  If you’re going with solid colors, try adding textures and layers.  Wear something lace, a wool sweater, a knitted top, corduroy pants, etc., just something to add a little texture and dimension to the solid colors.  And layer it up!  Add a cardigan, a colorful scarf, a cute hat, some jewelry, etc.

As for shoes… OK I’m guilty.  I have my running shoes and like one pair of sandals that I wear on a regular basis, so I’m really not the best at coordinating my outfits!  But, as the person on the other side of the camera looking at all of you, I see what looks good and what stands out in a not so good way.  And yes, those running shoes stand out, not in a good way.  Ladies, you usually have some cute sandals or boots to go to, but fellas, put those sneakers back in your closet.  Find a casual shoe, loafer or boot.

Lastly, but certainly not least, wear something comfortable!  Comfortable in the sense that you’re not going to be suffering through the shoot, but also in the sense that your comfortable with how you look in it. If you hate the way your arms look, don’t wear a strapless top.  If you think you have hideous toes, maybe wear boots instead of sandals.  No matter how much everyone else will tell you the photos look amazing and you look great, you wont love them if you don’t love yourself in them.  So, wear something that you feel comfortable and confident in!

I hope this helps you when choosing your family’s outfits!  But if you need more advice, or simply want my opinion on what you’ve chosen, I’d love to help!  Pinterest is also a good source for cute, coordinating outfits!  I’ve included some examples of complementary colors!

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