What Should We Wear for Family Photos? A Stress-Free Guide to Choosing Outfits You’ll Love
July 2, 2026
Updated June 2026
One of the most common questions I receive from families before their session is:
“What should we wear for family photos?”
If you’re staring at everyone’s closets, wondering how in the world you’re supposed to coordinate five people without looking overly matching, you’re not alone.
The good news? Choosing outfits for family photos doesn’t have to be stressful.
As a family photographer serving New Richmond, Hudson, River Falls, Baldwin, Somerset, and Stillwater families, I’ve learned that the best images happen when you feel comfortable, confident, and like yourselves.
TL;DR
- Choose 3–5 coordinating colors, not identical outfits.
- Stick with soft neutrals and earthy tones.
- Add texture with knits, linen, denim, lace, or corduroy.
- Avoid neon colors, large logos, and busy patterns.
- Dress for the season and your session location.
- Comfort matters more than perfection.
Start With Mom’s Outfit First
If you’ve ever tried building everyone’s outfits at once, you know how overwhelming it can feel.
Instead:
- Choose Mom’s outfit first.
- Pull colors from her dress or top.
- Coordinate everyone else around those tones.
This creates a natural, cohesive look without everyone appearing identical.
Coordinating Is Better Than Matching
Gone are the days of everyone wearing white shirts and jeans.
Instead, think:
Good:
- Sage + cream + dusty blue
- Camel + rust + olive
- Mauve + ivory + charcoal
- Navy + taupe + soft gray
Avoid:
- Everyone in exactly the same color.
- Neon shades.
- Extremely bright reds or hot pinks.
- Competing patterns.
Your family’s connection should be the focus—not the clothing.
Texture Makes Photos Feel Rich and Timeless
One secret photographers love?
Texture photographs beautifully.
Consider incorporating:
- Knit sweaters
- Linen dresses
- Lace details
- Gauze fabrics
- Chambray
- Corduroy
- Waffle knits
- Denim jackets
Texture adds depth and helps images feel warm and inviting.
Seasonal Outfit Ideas
Spring Family Photos
Spring works beautifully with:
- Sage green
- Dusty blue
- Cream
- Soft blush
- Lavender gray
Fabrics:
- Linen
- Cotton
- Gauze
- Light knits
Perfect for blooming trees, parks, and soft evening light.
Summer Family Photos
Summer is ideal for:
- Ivory
- Sand
- Dusty blue
- Sage
- Soft navy
Fabrics:
- Lightweight cotton
- Linen
- Chambray
- Eyelet lace
Think airy and comfortable.
Fall Family Photos
Fall is one of my favorite seasons because rich colors photograph so beautifully.
Consider:
- Camel
- Rust
- Terracotta
- Olive
- Cream
- Mocha
Textures:
- Corduroy
- Chunky knits
- Suede
- Flannel
These tones complement Wisconsin’s beautiful fall colors perfectly.
Winter Family Photos
Winter sessions look stunning with:
- Ivory
- Taupe
- Gray
- Charcoal
- Navy
- Soft sage
Textures:
- Wool
- Knits
- Fleece
- Ribbed fabrics
Layering coats, scarves, and hats can add both warmth and visual interest.
What NOT to Wear for Family Photos
Here are a few things I generally recommend avoiding:
Large Logos
Big graphics pull attention away from your faces.
Neon Colors
Bright colors can reflect onto skin tones and become distracting.
Tiny Busy Patterns
Small stripes, chevrons, and busy prints can compete with one another.
Shiny Fabrics
Highly reflective materials don’t always photograph well.
Clothing That Makes You Uncomfortable
The best outfit is one that allows you to move, cuddle, play, and enjoy your family.
Don’t Forget the Little Details
Before your session:
- Steam clothing if needed.
- Remove smart watches if desired.
- Coordinate shoes.
- Trim nails.
- Bring layers for children.
- Pack backup outfits for toddlers.
A little preparation goes a long way.
My Favorite Advice? Wear Something That Feels Like You.
Pinterest-perfect outfits are wonderful inspiration, but your family photos should feel authentic.
Whether you’re barefoot at the beach, exploring a field at sunset, or cuddled together in winter sweaters, the most important thing is that you feel comfortable and connected.
Because years from now, your children won’t remember what shade of sage green you wore.
They’ll remember being held.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should everyone wear the same color?
No. Coordinating colors create much more depth and interest than matching outfits.
Can we wear patterns?
Absolutely! I recommend one or two subtle patterns mixed with solids.
Should we wear black?
Small amounts of black are fine, but all-black outfits can sometimes appear heavy in outdoor settings.
What colors photograph best?
Soft neutrals, earth tones, dusty blues, sage greens, mauves, creams, and warm browns tend to photograph beautifully year-round.
Will you help us choose outfits?
Yes! Every family who books with Alabaster Photos is welcome to send outfit photos for guidance.
Continued Reading
If you’re planning a family session, you might also enjoy:
How to Prepare Children for Family Photos
How Much Does Professional Photography Cost
Timeline of a Family Photo Session
Best Time to Book Your Family Photo Sessions
Alabaster Photos
Serving families in New Richmond, Hudson, River Falls, Baldwin, Somerset, and Stillwater with relaxed, connection-focused photography designed to preserve the moments you’ll never want to forget.
