What to Wear to Your Family Photo Session
Simple tips to help you look and feel your best - without the stress.
Choosing what to wear for your photo session can feel like a big decision - but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. The goal in simple: wear something that makes you feel comfortable, confident, and most importantly…. like yourselves.
As your photographer, I’ll help guide you every step of the way. Here are a few tips to make choosing outfits a breeze (and help create timeless images you’ll love to print and frame for years to come).
Start with Mum (or the person who cares the most!)
Let’s be honest - if you’re the one booking the session, you’re probably also the one coordinating the outfits. Start by choosing something you feel amazing in and build the rest of the family’s wardrobe around that. Think flowy dresses, linen sets, soft knits - anything that feels you.
One thing to keep in mind is avoiding oversized or very loose clothing. Pieces that have a little shape always photograph better and help you look like you on your best day. When fabric completely hides your waist or curves, the camera can make you appear bigger than you are, even when you’re not. Soft structure, gentle draping, or a defined waistline makes a huge difference.
Keep Colours Soft and Complimentary
Neutrals, earth tones, and soft colours photograph beautifully - especially outdoors or in the studio. Creams, beige, dusty pinks, sage green, soft blues and rusts all work beautifully together. Avoid super bright neon colours or logos, which can be distracting and date your images.
While black is on the Colours to Avoid, it can work if it’s balanced with softer tones. However, neutrals and earthy colours tend to photograph more naturally and keep the focus on connection and light.
Pro Tip: Lay all the clothes out on the bed or floor to see how the colours look together.
Add Texture, Not Clutter
Texture adds depth and interest to your photos - think waffle knits, lace, linen, or embroidery. Keep patterns minimal (small florals, subtle stripes) and avoid big graphics or text.
Think “Coordinated”, Not ‘Matching”
Aim for outfits that feel like part of the same story - without being identical. Mix tones, vary textures, and let personalities shine through in a cohesive pallet.
Prioritise Comfort (Especially for Kids)
If your child hates scratchy tags or tight shoes, don’t force it. Comfy kids are happy kids - and that means relaxed, natural photos. Let them move, play, and be themselves. Their smiles will thank you for it.
Plan for the Final Product
Are you dreaming of a gallery wall or a beautiful album? Consider your home’s colours and style when choosing outfits. Soft, neutral clothing creates timeless images that sit beautifully in any room and won’t date over time.
A Final Word
The best outfits are the ones that make you feel like you. I’m always here to help you plan - we can chat outfits during our pre-session consult, and I’m happy to look over your ideas or photos. You can even send me pictures from the dressing room!
Remember, it’s not really about the clothes - it’s about connection, love, and capturing your family as they are, in this beautiful, fleeting season.
Need Inspiration?
Check out my Studio Gallery and On-Location Gallery to see what other families have worn. I’ve also created Pinterest boards full of outfit ideas for every type of session.
Browse outfit ideas on my Pinterest page (Angela Rawlings Photography) - you’ll find separate boards for studio, on-location, and more.
