Booking a family photoshoot is an exciting way to capture memories, but one of the first questions I’m often asked is: What should we wear? The good news is, it doesn’t have to be complicated! With a little bit of planning, you can make sure your outfits look great together and feel like you.
Start with a Colour Palette
Rather than choosing identical outfits, aim for coordinating colours. Pick a colour palette of 3-4 complementary tones that work well together. Soft, neutral colours like beige, blues, greys, and earthy tones tend to photograph beautifully and stand the test of time. If you prefer something brighter, jewel tones like deep greens, mustard yellows, or burgundy can add warmth without clashing.
Think About the Location
Consider where your photoshoot is taking place. If we’re heading to a beach, soft blues, whites, and sandy tones work well. For a woodland setting, warm browns, deep greens, and autumnal shades blend beautifully with nature. If your shoot is in your home, opt for comfortable, cosy outfits that reflect your everyday style.
Avoid Busy Patterns & Logos
Small patterns can work well, but avoid anything too bold or clashing. Text, large logos, neon colours, and very busy prints can be distracting and take attention away from your faces. Instead, opt for simple textures like knitwear, denim, or linen, which add depth to your photos.
Dress for Comfort & Confidence
If you’re uncomfortable in an outfit, it’ll show in your photos. Wear something that makes you feel like yourself, rather than something too formal or stiff. Flowy dresses, fitted but comfortable tops, and well-fitted jeans or trousers are always a great choice. If you have young children, make sure they’re comfy too – itchy or restrictive clothing can lead to unhappy little ones!
Layer Up & Add Texture
Layers like cardigans, jackets, or scarves can add visual interest and give you more variety in your photos. Textures like wool, denim, and cotton photograph beautifully and help bring the images to life.
Consider the Season
- Spring & Summer: Lighter fabrics, soft pastels, and breathable materials work well.
- Autumn & Winter: Think cosy knits, rich tones, and layers for warmth and texture.
Don’t Forget Shoes!
It’s easy to overlook footwear, but it makes a difference. Avoid bright white trainers unless they suit your overall look, and opt for neutral-toned shoes or boots. For beach shoots, barefoot often looks best!
Final Tip: Lay Everything Out in Advance
Before the day of your shoot, lay out everyone’s outfits together and see how they look as a whole. This helps ensure the colours complement each other and that nothing stands out too much.
At the end of the day, the most important thing is that you feel happy and comfortable in what you’re wearing. Your photos should reflect you and your family as you are – relaxed, natural, and full of personality. If you’re ever unsure, I’m always happy to help with outfit ideas before your shoot!