What to Wear for Family Photos - A Photographer’s Guide to Timeless, Natural Images

One of the most common questions I hear before a family session is:

“What should we wear?”

Whether you’re planning photos with your immediate family or gathering everyone together for an extended family session, outfits play a big role in how your images feel.

The goal isn’t matching perfectly — it’s creating a look that feels comfortable, cohesive, and true to your family. Here is a guide on what to wear in family photos.

Start With Neutrals

Neutrals are the foundation of timeless family photos. They photograph beautifully in every season and keep the focus on connection.

Great neutral base colors:

• Cream, ivory, soft white

• Beige, tan, camel

• Soft gray

• Muted denim

• Warm browns

Choose two or three neutrals to build around rather than everyone wearing the same shade.

Add Soft Pops of Color

Once you’ve chosen your neutrals, subtle pops of color add warmth and personality.

Accent colors that photograph well:

• Sage or olive green

• Soft blue or dusty navy

• Rust or terracotta

• Blush or dusty rose

Spread color throughout the group instead of clustering it in one place for a balanced look.

Choose Texture Over Bold Prints

Texture adds interest without overwhelming the image.

Photographer-loved textures:

• Knits and sweaters

• Linen and cotton

• Denim

• Light layers like cardigans or jackets

If you include patterns, keep them minimal and mix them with solids.

Avoid:

• Large logos

• Neon or very bright colors

• Busy, high-contrast patterns

Dress for Comfort and Movement

Your session will include walking, sitting, and cuddling — especially with kids.

Choose clothing that allows everyone to move comfortably.

If kids aren’t comfortable in their outfits, it often shows in the photos.

Keep Everyone at a Similar Dress Level

Try to keep outfits balanced in formality.

If one parent is wearing a dress or button-up, avoid pairing it with athletic wear.

If kids are dressed nicely, parents should be too — even if casual.

This helps images feel cohesive and polished without feeling overdone.

What to Wear for Extended Family Photos

Extended family sessions can feel overwhelming when it comes to outfits, but they photograph beautifully with a simple approach.

Start With Neutrals for Everyone

Encourage each household to choose outfits within the same neutral palette.

Not everyone needs to wear the same shade — variety within neutrals keeps the image natural while still unified.

Use Pops of Color to Define Each Family

Pops of color help distinguish individual families while keeping the group cohesive.

This might be:

• A dress

• A sweater or jacket

• A scarf or accessory

Muted tones work best and photograph beautifully together.

Keep Patterns Minimal Across the Group

With larger groups, less is more.

If one or two people wear subtle patterns, keep the rest in solids so faces remain the focus.

Shoes Matter More Than You Think

Shoes are often visible in walking and lifestyle moments.

Best choices:

• Neutral boots, flats, or sandals

• Clean sneakers in soft tones

• Barefoot for in-home sessions

Try to avoid bright athletic shoes or heavily branded footwear.

Lay Everything Out Ahead of Time

Before your session, lay all outfits out together on a bed or floor.

Seeing everything side by side makes it easier to spot anything that feels out of place and allows time for simple swaps.

When You’re Unsure, Just Ask

If you’re stuck or second-guessing outfits, I’m always happy to help.

Family photos aren’t about perfection — they’re about connection. When you feel comfortable and confident, that ease naturally shows in your images.

Ready to Plan Your Session?

If you’re thinking about updating your family or extended family photos, I’d love to help you plan a session that feels relaxed, meaningful, and true to your family.

Serving families throughout the East Bay.