If you've booked your family photo session (or you're thinking about it), chances are you've already asked yourself one big question:
"What on earth are we going to wear?"
Trust me, you are not alone! This is easily one of the most common questions I get from families, and the good news is that it doesn't have to be stressful. The right outfits can help your photos feel timeless, coordinated, and true to your family's personality without looking overly "matchy."
As a Southeast Michigan family photographer, I've photographed hundreds of families in every season, and I've learned that the best outfits aren't necessarily the fanciest; they're the ones that make you feel comfortable, confident, and like yourselves.
Here are my favorite tips for choosing outfits you'll love looking back on for years to come.
Start with Mom's Outfit First
This might surprise you, but I always recommend starting with Mom's outfit.
Why? Because moms often have the hardest time finding something they truly love, and once her outfit is chosen, it's much easier to coordinate everyone else around it.
Choose something that makes you feel confident, comfortable, and beautiful. Flowy dresses, textured sweaters, and outfits with movement photograph especially well because they create softness and dimension in your images.
Coordinate...Don't Match.
Gone are the days of everyone wearing white shirts and blue jeans.
Instead, choose a color palette that complements each other.
Some of my favorite family color combinations include:
- Cream, tan, sage green, and soft brown
- Dusty blue, ivory, and light gray
- Rust, mustard, olive, and cream
- Navy, beige, and soft blush
- Taupe, denim, white, and muted greens
The goal is for everyone to look like they belong together without looking identical.
Choose Neutral, Earthy Colors
Neutral tones photograph beautifully in almost every location throughout Southeast Michigan, whether we're exploring Sterling State Park, downtown Milan, a sunflower field, or one of my favorite hidden nature trails.
Colors I love:
- Cream
- Beige
- Ivory
- Sage
- Olive
- Dusty blue
- Rust
- Soft pink
- Brown
- Camel
- Navy
These colors keep the focus where it belongs, on your family's connection.
Avoid Busy Patterns and Large Logos
Small textures are wonderful.
Large graphics, bright neon colors, and oversized logos can pull attention away from the people in the photo.
If one family member wants to wear a subtle pattern, keep everyone else's clothing more solid to create balance.
Dress for the Season
Michigan gives us some incredible backdrops throughout the year, and your outfits can help complement the season.
Spring Family Photos
Think soft pastels, light denim, florals, and flowing fabrics.
Summer Family Photos
Choose breathable fabrics like linen or cotton and lighter colors that reflect the beautiful evening sunlight.
Fall Family Photos
Warm earth tones are perfect for Michigan's colorful autumn landscapes. Rust, olive, camel, burgundy, mustard, and cream always photograph beautifully.
Winter Family Photos
Layer cozy sweaters, scarves, neutral coats, boots, and textured fabrics for warm, timeless images.
Don't Forget About Shoes
Shoes can completely change the look of your photos.
Some favorites include:
- Neutral sandals
- Brown boots
- Clean white sneakers
- Dress shoes
- Barefoot for beach sessions
Try to avoid bright athletic shoes whenever possible unless they fit the overall style.
Add Texture
Texture creates beautiful depth in photographs.
Some great options include:
- Knit sweaters
- Linen
- Lace
- Denim
- Corduroy
- Flowy dresses
- Chunky cardigans
These details make your images feel cozy and timeless without overwhelming the photo.
Keep Everyone Comfortable
The happiest family photos happen when everyone feels good in what they're wearing.
If your toddler constantly pulls at itchy clothes or your child hates stiff dress shoes, it will probably show during your session.
Comfort leads to genuine smiles, natural movement, and authentic moments.
Think About Your Home
One question I always encourage families to ask is:
"Where will these photos hang?"
If your home has neutral colors, choosing timeless, neutral outfits will help your artwork blend beautifully with your space for years to come.
My Favorite Family Outfit Formula
If you're feeling overwhelmed, here's one of my go-to combinations:
- Mom: Flowy cream dress
- Dad: Tan pants with a light blue button-up or T-shirt
- Daughter: Sage dress
- Son: Khaki pants with a cream sweater
