Figuring out what to wear for family photos can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. With just a few simple guidelines, you can create beautiful, timeless photos you’ll love displaying in your home for years.

Here are 3 simple steps to choose the perfect outfits for your family photos so you can arrive at your session feeling confident, relaxed, and excited.

Step 1: Choose One Pattern

When styling outfits for family photos, less is more when it comes to patterns.

Choose one outfit with a pattern (like florals, subtle stripes, or plaid) and build the rest of the family’s outfits around the colors within that pattern.

This keeps the overall look balanced and prevents the photo from feeling busy or distracting.

For example:
If your daughter is wearing a floral dress with sage, cream, and dusty blue, use those colors to style everyone else.

Step 2: Pick a Simple Color Palette

One of the best tips for family photos is to choose a color palette with no more than 3-5 colors.

This keeps your photos cohesive and timeless.

Beautiful color palettes for family photos include:

• Soft pastels
• Creams and neutrals
• Earthy tones like sage, rust, beige, or dusty blue

Step 3: Add Texture (The Secret to Elevated Photos)

This is the most important step that many families overlook.

Instead of putting everyone in similar cotton shirts or dresses, look for pieces with texture. Texture makes your outfits look elevated on camera, without adding visual clutter.

Some great textures for family photos include:

• Lace
• Ruffles
• Knit sweaters
• Waffle fabric
• Linen
• Embroidery

Pro Tips for Beautiful Family Photos

• Choosing colors that complement your home decor makes your photos look even better hanging on your walls.
• Choose Comfortable Clothing: Outfits that allow you to move, sit, walk, and interact naturally with your family. Flowy dresses and relaxed fits photograph beautifully.
• Consider Professional Hair and Makeup. Having your hair and makeup professionally done can make a huge difference in how confident you feel in your photos—and that confidence shows on camera.

Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing Family Photo Outfits

• Bright, Bold Colors. I will say they can work when styled correctly, however, it’s usually safer to stick with soft neutrals or earthy tones.
• Clothing with Logos or Graphics: They pull attention away from what matters most: your family’s faces and connection.
• Everyone Matching Exactly: The days of everyone wearing jeans and a white shirt are long gone.Instead of matching, aim for coordinating outfits. Each person should have their own look while still fitting within the overall color palette.

Ready to get family photos you love?

Schedule your complementary Planning call today