Aug 8, 20232 min read

What to Wear to a Family Portrait Session

Updated: Dec 20, 2023

A mom, dad, teenage daughter, and teenage son all standing and cuddling in close on a cream background for their family portrait.

Choose simple, well-fitting outfits.

Just as a simple background puts the focus on your family, so do simple outfits. Make sure everyone can stand, sit, squat, and lie down comfortably in their outfits. Make sure to avoid anything with logos or bold patterns that will be distracting. A good mix of solids, textures, and layers can add interest to your images.

Colors.

Neutral tones always photograph well. They help create timeless images and also put more focus on you and your family. Neutrals are my favorite tones to photograph in the studio, especially whites, creams, tans, and grays.

If you like more colorful tones, choose 3-4 colors that coordinate.

Choose 3-4 colors that work well together. Often it's best for mom to choose her outfit and color first, and then work from there.

A mother holding her newborn son while her husband has his arms around them. They are looking down and smiling at the baby. All are dressed in white and are standing on a cream backdrop.

What Mom Should Wear

When choosing your outfit, make sure you can comfortably pose, move, and snuggle with your family.

Good choices for mom are a long dress, classic or boho maxis, or a nice blouse and jeans. Jewelry is best kept classic and simple.

What Dad Should Wear

Good choices for dad are polos, solid t-shirts , textured thermal shirts, henley style shirts, sweaters, or solid button ups. For pants, a nice pair of jeans or khakis works well.

Two young brothers and young sister sitting on a gold settee cuddled close and smiling at the camera. They are all dressed in white and blue.

What Children Should Wear

My favorites for girls are a simple classic dress, bubble, or romper. Make sure bloomers or shorts are worn under dresses to cover diapers/underwear.

Boys do well in a snug pair of jeans or khakis with a well-fitted t-shirt, v-neck, thermal, polo, or button down shirt.

Shoes

Shoes can make or break your photos. Most photos will be from the waist up, but you might have a few full length images. Opt for neutral solid color shoes that won't be distracting. Younger children can get away with no shoes since their tiny feet are so precious.

Most of all, opt for simple, classic outfits that will allow your images to be timeless and enjoyed for years to come.

Want more help on preparing for your family photoshoot? I have a checklist that will help you plan all the things! GRAB THE FAMILY SESSION CHECKLIST!

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