What to Wear for Your Photo Session: A Guide to Coordinating Outfits Without the Stress
One of the most common questions I get before a session is:
“What should we wear?”
And I totally get it—choosing outfits for your whole crew can feel overwhelming. You want everyone to look great, but not too matchy, and you’re trying to strike that perfect balance between timeless and stylish.
Good news? It doesn’t have to be stressful. With a few simple tips, you can pull together a look that feels cohesive, comfortable, and beautiful on camera.
Here’s my go-to guide for coordinating outfits that photograph beautifully. I just had to do this for my own little family when we had our photos taken….here is how I coordinated my family:
1. Start with a Color Palette (3–4 Colors is the Sweet Spot)
Rather than matching everyone in the exact same color, choose a color palette of 3–4 complementary tones. This creates a more natural, balanced look and allows each person’s personality to shine through.
A great formula:
1 main/neutral color (like cream, tan, gray, soft denim)
1–2 accent colors (muted greens, soft blush, rust, navy, mustard)
1 deeper or bolder tone (to ground the look—like charcoal, olive, or burgundy)
✨ Pro Tip: Start with one outfit you love (like mom’s dress or baby’s romper) and build the rest of the looks around those colors.
2. Mix Patterns and Solids
Patterns can bring texture and interest to your photos, but the key is balance.
Try one or two people in a patterned piece (like florals, subtle plaids, or stripes).
Everyone else can wear solids pulled from the color palette.
Avoid large logos, neon colors, or busy prints that distract from your faces.
Patterns are perfect for dresses, tops, or even a statement skirt. Just keep the scale soft and simple so it doesn’t overwhelm the photo.
3. Layering Adds Depth and Interest
Layers are your secret weapon for elevating a simple outfit. They add texture, movement, and that cozy, effortless look.
Ideas for layering:
Cardigans or denim jackets
Vests or scarves in cooler months
Layered jewelry or hats (if that fits your vibe)
Rolled sleeves, knotted hems, or a belt to give structure
Layers also make it easy to change things up mid-session without a full outfit swap.
4. Dress for the Season – and the Location
Think about where and when your session is taking place. Is it a breezy beach session? A golden fall field? An in-home newborn session?
Each setting works best with certain textures and tones:
Spring: Light fabrics, pastels, florals, soft greens and blush tones
Summer: Breezy neutrals, chambray, creams, soft blues
Fall: Earthy tones like mustard, rust, olive, deep burgundy, cozy knits
Winter: Jewel tones, deep greens/navy, layered textures like wool or corduroy
In-home: Comfy knits, barefoot, warm neutrals, soft textures (think cozy, lived-in feel)
5. Comfort > Perfection
Yes, we want your outfits to look great—but if you're not comfortable, it’ll show. Make sure everyone can move, sit, and snuggle easily in what they’re wearing.
Choose pieces that fit well (not too tight or too loose).
Skip anything itchy, stiff, or restrictive—especially for little ones.
Flowy dresses, joggers, linen shirts, soft knits—yes please.
Bonus: if you feel good in what you're wearing, you're going to look amazing in your photos.
6. Lay It All Out First
Once you’ve picked your outfits, lay everything out together (including shoes, accessories, etc.) and take a photo. Seeing it all together helps you spot anything that doesn’t quite fit—and ensures the palette looks cohesive across the board.
You can also send me a photo—I’m always happy to help tweak things!
Quick Outfit Checklist ✅
✔ Choose 3–4 colors to build your palette
✔ Mix solids and 1–2 subtle patterns
✔ Layer for texture and depth
✔ Dress for the season and setting
✔ Prioritize comfort and confidence
✔ Avoid neon, logos, or anything overly trendy
Need Some Inspiration?
I keep a curated Pinterest board full of outfit ideas for families, couples, maternity, and more. Just ask, and I’ll send you the link!
Final Thoughts
Your photo session is about capturing connection, love, and real life—not perfection. When you feel confident, your joy and personality will come through in every frame.
So wear something that makes you feel you, let the kids be kids, and I’ll take care of the rest. 💛
