What to Wear for Family Photos: Timeless Outfit Ideas That Always Work
Planning a family photo session is exciting, but deciding what to wear can sometimes feel overwhelming. You want everyone to look coordinated, comfortable, and most importantly, like themselves; all while creating beautiful, timeless images you’ll cherish for years.
As a Lancaster PA family photographer and a mom of four myself, I’ve seen what works and what doesn’t when it comes to outfits. Here are my top tips to help you dress your family for photos that will stand the test of time.
Style Tips for Timeless Family Photos
1. Keep It Classic, Not Trendy
Avoid overly trendy clothes or flashy logos. Instead, choose classic pieces that won’t look dated in a few years. Think simple patterns like stripes or small florals, and timeless wardrobe staples such as button-down shirts, cardigans, and well-fitting jeans or chinos.
2. Coordinate, Don’t Match
Matching outfits can sometimes look too “uniform.” Instead, aim for a coordinated color palette with complementary shades and textures. This creates visual harmony while allowing each family member’s personality to shine.
3. Prioritize Comfort
If kids (or adults!) aren’t comfortable, it will show in the photos. Choose clothes that fit well and allow freedom of movement because natural smiles come easiest when everyone feels good.
4. Add Layers and Accessories
Layering with scarves, sweaters, or jackets adds depth to photos. Simple accessories like hats, belts, or delicate jewelry can enhance your look without overwhelming it.
Seasonal Color Palettes That Always Work
Picking the right colors for your family photos is key to achieving that timeless, cohesive look. Here are some tried-and-true palettes for each season:
Spring
Soft pastels like blush pink, sage green, light blue, and creamy neutrals feel fresh and light. Linen fabrics and flowy dresses fit perfectly with spring’s gentle vibe.
Summer
Bright but soft colors work well. Think coral, turquoise, sunny yellow, and crisp white. Light cottons and breathable fabrics keep everyone comfortable in the heat.
Fall
Warm earthy tones make for cozy, inviting photos. Consider rust, mustard, olive green, burgundy, and deep navy. Layering with sweaters and scarves is a plus!
Winter
Rich jewel tones like emerald green, deep plum, navy, and cranberry stand out beautifully against winter’s cooler backdrop. Velvet, wool, and knits add texture and warmth.
Final Thoughts
Remember, your family photos are about capturing your unique connection and joy. When you feel comfortable and coordinated, it shows in every smile and glance. Keep these timeless outfit ideas and seasonal palettes in mind to create photos you’ll treasure forever.
If you have questions or want personalized outfit advice, don’t hesitate to reach out! I’m here to help!
Bonus: Free Family Photo Outfit Planner
To make choosing your outfits even easier, I created a free downloadable Family Photo Outfit Planner packed with color palettes, outfit examples, and a checklist to plan each family member’s look. It’s a handy tool to ensure everyone feels confident and picture-ready!
