One of the most common questions I get before a session is: “What should we wear?”
Whether it's a family of five, a couple celebrating their anniversary, or a high school senior prepping for the big shoot — the outfit panic is real.
And I get it — choosing outfits for your family portraits can feel overwhelming. You want to look good, feel confident, and not cringe later when you look back (we’ve all seen the ’90s matching jeans and white t-shirt photos, right?). And for families especially, just getting everyone dressed and out the door can feel like a full production — so adding in outfit stress doesn’t help.
But here’s the truth: while your outfits aren’t the most important thing (connection and presence always come first), they can elevate your portraits — and help you show up feeling like your best, most authentic self.
After more than 10 years of photographing families, couples, and seniors, I’ve pulled together my top 7 tips to help you prepare for your session with confidence and style.
Let’s dive in!
1 - Start with a Color Theme
When you’re staring into your closet, the options can feel over-whelming. Start by thinking about what colors you and your family naturally wear.
Most people already have a subtle “color vibe” — whether that’s earthy tones, soft pastels, rich jewel tones, or classic blues. Knowing your go-to palette makes planning easier and helps you work with what’s already in your closet.
Also keep in mind: different skin tones pop with different colors. Try to choose tones that make everyone look vibrant and healthy — not washed out or pale. A cohesive palette helps everyone look polished, even without matching.
2 - Ditch the Matching Outfits
Remember when everyone wore identical jeans and white button-downs? Yeah… we’ve moved on.
Matching outfits can feel outdated and flatten the personality in your portraits. Instead, coordinate within your color theme — use a mix of tones, textures, and layers that look cohesive but not cookie-cutter.
Aim for harmony, not duplication.
3 - Dress for the Season and Setting
Will your session be in a studio or outdoors? What season are we in?
The colors in nature shift throughout the year — and your clothing can either complement or clash with the environment.
Planning your outfits with the setting in mind helps everything feel visually cohesive. Your clothing should complement the environment — not compete with it.
For example:
- Spring: Lean into soft pastels — blush pinks, pale blues, dusty greens, light tans. These colors pair beautifully with fresh blooms and early-season light.
- Fall: This is when bold, rich tones shine — think rust, ochre yellow, forest green, deep browns, navy, and black. They photograph beautifully against turning leaves and golden-hour skies.
4 - Balance Patterns and Solids
Patterns can add interest, but they also add busyness — so it’s all about balance.
Once you’ve chosen your color scheme, play with a mix of solids and subtle patterns. A good rule of thumb: one or two people in patterns, everyone else in coordinating solids. Too many competing patterns can make a photo look “busy” or distract from the faces and emotions you’re trying to capture. In the same way, graphic t-shirts quickly become the focal point of the portraits, detracting from you!
Pro tip: Choose one patterned piece you love (like a floral dress or a plaid shirt), and build the rest of the outfits around it. Patterns on kids’ attire is a huge win - as it comes across looking playful and fun!
5 - Add a "Pop" with an Accent Color
This is the best way to really make your portraits stand out.
Once your main palette is set, choose one accent color to bring a little fun and visual interest to the group. Let’s say your family is wearing various shades of blue and tan.
If one patterned piece includes a little rust or burnt orange, use that as an accent — maybe someone wears Converse in that color, or you add a scarf or earrings that tie it in. Even nail polish or lipstick can become part of the visual rhythm.
Strategic pops of color help pull the whole group together and make your portraits stand out.
6 - Pick Pieces that Flatter and Flow
This one’s important — and I say it with love: the camera picks up everything.
Tight or clingy clothing might feel great in person, but it tends to accentuate every line and fold on camera — things most of us aren’t trying to highlight.
Instead, look for pieces that move and breathe. For women, think flowy dresses, soft blouses, and skirts that drape. For men, button-up shirts that aren’t too baggy or too tight. Think: comfortable, classic, flattering.
The goal is to feel good in your skin — not to be adjusting your clothes every five seconds during the session.
7 - Dress up Just a Bit - It's Worth It!
You’re investing time, energy, and money into these portraits — so treat it like the special occasion it is!
I recommend dressing 1–2 levels above your everyday wear. If your usual go-to is sweatpants and tees (hello, same!), consider stepping it up with nice jeans, blouses, dresses, or even semi-formal attire. Trust me - elevating your look a little makes your portraits feel more timeless and you’ll never regret feeling a little more dressed up for portraits you’ll hang in your home for years.
And if you want to go full glam? I say go for it. Formal/semi-formal attire makes for stunning portraits, especially against a natural backdrop!
Bonus Tip: Don't sleep on Pinterest!
Still feeling unsure? Pinterest is your best friend when it comes to outfit inspiration. Try searching:
“Family photo outfit ideas”
“Fall family photo color palettes”
“Coordinating outfits for pictures”
“Senior portrait outfit inspiration”
You’ll find tons of visual combos to help you pull together the perfect look.
Final Thoughts
Choosing outfits for your portrait session doesn’t have to be overwhelming — and it definitely doesn’t need to be perfect.
Your portrait session is about celebrating and honoring you — your family, your relationships, your story. The goal isn’t to be perfect — it’s to be present. Thoughtful outfit planning simply helps you feel more confident, which makes the entire experience smoother and more joyful.
When you feel good, you look good — and when you look good, you love your photos even more.
You’ve got this — and remember: I’ve got your back. 💛
