Whether you’re dressing the whole fam or just coordinating with your partner, this guide will take the guesswork out of what to wear. I’ll help you choose outfits that feel like you so your photos are timeless, natural, and 100% focused on what matters most: your connection!
1. Start with the Big Picture
Before we even talk colors or styles, think about this:
- Where will these photos live? Are they going on your living room wall, in a holiday card, or in a big ol’ family album? The setting matters too. If we’re shooting in Tahoe’s bright greens or golden meadows, certain colors might sing while others… clash. (I’m looking at you, neon orange and bright red.)
- The goal? Outfits that feel natural in the setting and timeless on your walls years from now.
2. Choose a Color Palette
Here’s the thing: I’m not about cookie-cutter color rules. I want you to feel like yourselves, but elevated.
✅ Neutrals & earth tones always work. Think cream, tan, olive, soft gray, sand, rust, or muted blues and greens.
❌ Skip neons, bold primary reds, and super-saturated colors. Why?
- They don’t just clash with nature’s softer tones, they also reflect color back onto your skin. (This is called color cast, and trust me, no one wants to look like they have a red or neon-green glow in their photos.)
- The goal is for YOU to stand out, not your shirt.
❌ Avoid black. I know this one hurts.
- Black might seem like a safe, classic choice, but here’s the truth: it sucks the light right out of your photos. Your skin, the background, the whole vibe...everything gets way darker and heavier.
- If you’re hellbent on wearing something dark, pick a navy instead. Navy pants, shirts, shoes—same sleek vibe but without turning the whole photo into a moody movie scene.
If you’re unsure, lean neutral and let your personalities (and my camera skills) do the rest.
For all you visual learners out there, enjoy the examples below! Feel free to use these colors or get inspiration to make your own.
3. Patterns: a little goes a long way
Patterns can bring a look to life but they can also hijack a photo faster than a toddler with a juice box.
✔ If you love patterns, keep it subtle and stick to one to two patterned pieces in the group.
✔ Pair your 1-2 patterns with solids for everyone else.
❌ Avoid:
- Big logos (really ANY logos) and loud prints...they pull focus.
- Teeny-tiny patterns (like micro-stripes or itty-bitty checks). On camera, these can create a weird wavy effect called moire, and no one wants their shirt to look like it’s glitching.
4. Coordinate, Don't Match
Repeat after me: We are not doing the 90s white shirts + blue jeans thing.
Instead, think complementary without copying. Break up colors and styles so each person brings something unique to the picture.
For example, one kid in a dress, another in a skirt and shirt, and the third in shorts and a button up shirt.
This mix adds texture and depth, making your photos feel more natural and way more interesting to look at.
- Start with your color palette. Neutrals, earthy tones, or soft muted colors are always a safe bet.
- Pick mom’s outfit first. Let’s be honest, it’s usually the hardest one to nail down, and once hers is set, everything else falls into place.
- Build around her look. Coordinate the rest of the family with complementary colors and varied textures. Think harmony, not matching uniforms.
- Add finishing touches. Scarves, hats, jewelry, boots—small accessories can pull everyone together without overthinking it.
5. Dress it Up (but Keep it you)
I get it...it feels weird to wear a flowy dress on a rocky trail or heels in the grass. But trust me: “a little extra” always photographs beautifully.
This doesn’t necessarily mean black-tie fancy (unless that’s your vibe). It means leaning into clothes that make you feel polished, confident, and just slightly fancier than your day-to-day.
6. For the Girls: Say Yes to the Dress
Dresses add movement, elegance, and softness to photos no matter your body type.
- Long, flowy skirts or maxi dresses bring drama in the best way.
- Midi dresses or layered looks (cardigans, tights, boots) are fun and flattering.
- Add texture with knits, lace, or lightweight jackets for depth.
7. The 'test photo' trick
Lay out all your outfits together and snap a quick phone pic:
👀 Do they look cohesive?
🎨 Are the colors playing nice together?
🤔 Not sure? Text me the photo. I’ll give you my honest pro opinion.
9. Final Thoughts & Details
- Dress authentically: Your style should reflect you.
- Choose an outfit that makes you feel confident: If you’re comfortable, it will show in your photos.
- Have everyone try on their outfits before the session: You don’t want last-minute surprises!
- Need help? Text or call me. I’ve seen it all and am happy to help!
At the end of the day, these photos are about you...your people, your story, your connection. The outfits are just the cherry on top.
I’ll give you all the guidance you need (because yes, color palettes matter), but if you feel confident and comfortable, that’s what will shine through in your photos.
So wear what you love, embrace the perfectly imperfect, and let’s take some pics together!
xoxo, Jen
