READ THIS BEFORE YOU PANIC BUY – 12 OUTFITS!

What to Wear for Your Family Photo Session (Without Losing Your Mind)

Let’s cut to the chase — figuring out what everyone should wear for your family photo session can feel like a full-blown mental load moment. Between wrangling small humans, managing opinions (tiny and adult-sized), and trying to keep everyone’s outfits from clashing like a bad ‘90s sitcom intro, it’s a lot.

But here’s the good news: you don’t need to overthink it. You don’t need to buy 12 new outfits. You definitely don’t need to match. You just need a few key tips, a vibe check, and maybe a backup pair of shoes in the car.

Let’s get into it.

1. Start with One Outfit You Love

Your outfit sets the tone. Start there. Pick something you feel really good in — whether that’s a cozy oversized sweater, a flowy dress, or your favorite neutral jumpsuit. If you feel weird in what you’re wearing, it’ll show.

Build the rest of the family’s outfits around yours. Don’t worry — I’ll help balance it all out.

2. Pick a Color Palette That Actually Photographs Well

Warm neutrals and muted earthy tones always work. Think:

Avoid: super vibrant colors, coral, neons, bright whites, or pairing pinks and blues together. These tend to mess with skin tones and lighting — especially if we’re shooting indoors or near greenery.

WANT TO GET FUN?  add black + white checkered prints, small floral prints, or stripes can totally work — just keep them low contrast so they don’t pull focus. These details add character without taking over.

Have a favorite band t-shirt you love?  why not?

Pro tip: if you’re doing jeans, mix up the washes. Dark, stonewashed, light gray — just avoid making everyone a denim twin.

4. Think About the Location

Where we shoot plays a big role in what works best for clothing. Here’s the vibe breakdown:

• In-home or studio: Go with lighter neutrals. Cream over tan. Light gray over black. It’ll help bounce more light and keep skin warm and clean.
• Field or flower garden: Flowy linen dresses, gauzy textures, subtle color pops that match the setting. You can be dressy or casual here — whatever fits your style.
• Downtown or rooftop: Go with what you’d wear on your best casual day. Elevated but comfortable. Think cool layers, light jackets, sneakers or boots.
• Beach: Loose linen, light colors, and yes — barefoot is totally fine.

5. Shoes Matter More Than You Think

They’re usually the last thing people think about… and they always show in the photos.

If you’re indoors or in studio — barefoot is perfect. If you’re wearing shoes, keep them neutral and low-profile. No cartoon sneakers or bright running shoes if you can help it.

Some classic Vans or simple slip-ons totally work — especially if they fit your family’s vibe. We’re going for cool and comfy, not overdone.

And for maternity? Keep it comfortable — skip the heels if you want to move freely and feel good.

6. For the Littles (and Newborns)

Keep it simple. One outfit is plenty — a neutral onesie, soft romper, or swaddle. Nothing too tight, fussy, or loud. Soft textures work best, and yes, I’ve got backup blankets in the studio if we need them.

Small bows are sweet. Giant ones… can be a lot. We want to see their little faces.

7. Consider the Weather

Michigan weather is unpredictable — I get it. One minute it’s sunny, the next it’s a windy mess or looks like a raincloud might crash the party.

• October to April: Layer it up. Sweaters over dresses, cardigans, vests, beanies. Layers not only look great in photos, but you can also shed or add them as needed.
• May to September: Keep it light — breathable fabrics like linen, cotton, or gauze are your best friends. Flowy dresses, short sleeves, and light textures will help everyone stay cool and look relaxed. Skip super short dresses or anything too stiff. Loose fabrics with movement work better and look natural when the breeze hits.*July – Sept sessions can get pretty steamy & humid, make sure you consider this when booking!

8. Want Help? Good — I Got You

You don’t have to do this alone. When you book, I’ll send a full style guide (like this but even more tailored). We’ll check in about a month before your session so you can send me screenshots and options — and tweak anything that’s not quite working.

We aim to have all outfits ready two weeks in advance so you’re not panic-adding socks to a late-night Target run the day before.

I can give as much help or as little help as you want — everyone has different needs. Some clients want detailed feedback and full-on styling advice, others just want to check in once and call it good. You let me know what works best for you.

I’m always down to chat via text, email, or FaceTime — especially if you want me to meet your kids beforehand or need to talk someone out of their Minecraft hoodie.

TL;DR?

• Wear what feels like you — not what’s trending, unless that’s what we want
• Keep it comfortable, neutral, and easy to move in
• Trust the process — you bring the connection, I’ll bring the camera

Let’s make styling fun again. Or at least… not stressful. That works too.

Ready to plan your session?
LET’S CHAT!