Choosing what to wear for photos can be super stressful! It’s enough to make anyone crazy, even photographers. But finding that perfect outfit (or family of outfits) is easier with a little bit of guidance.

What to wear for a photo shoot is one of the questions I get asked the most before a Photo Session. And because how you dress can have a big impact on the images I create for you. I have pulled together a few examples to help you when choosing your families wardrobe ahead of shoot day.

1. Don’t match, coordinate - By this I mean, make sure colours don’t clash! When it comes to families we are dealing with multiple sets of clothes and styles and probably different colours. So the more these colours can complement each other the better they will work in front of the camera. Perhaps start with the youngest and pull colours from their outfit to dress and layer everyone else. Layering can make a huge difference in tying in all the colors.

2. Dress for the same season - If someone in your family is wearing a jacket, it’s not a good idea for someone else to be wearing a slinky summer outfit. The more we can keep styles similar the better. Otherwise, you might have one person standing more than another in your portrait.

3. Choose neutral clothing - When families have no idea what colours to wear for photos, I suggest wearing any combination of cream, grey, light denims or tan. It is pretty hard to mess that up and looks good in almost every setting, indoor or out. The soft neutrals always bring the focus back to the people in the photos. This timeless look is easy to pull together, and (bonus!) dads love looking comfortable and not all dressed up. Ideally no logos showing and not overly garish colours, if possible, to enhance the timeless feel. Lighter colours will give a fresh, vibrant look. And darker colours are slimming. Try it out in the mirror before you come.

4. But if you want to be bold be bold - I do love to make my clients pop in the frame with bold colours. Adding cheerful colours to the mix can complement the mood of a session so well! You could pick just one or two happy colours and use some neutral details (white or grey) to tame them a bit. I love stripes but polka dots are also a great choice, floral prints etc.

5. Keep it simple & comfy - Wear materials that feel good on your skin. I always recommend wearing cotton t-shirts, relaxed style dresses or linen pants, (if thats your style) Jeans, layers (depending on weather). Staying neutral keeps the photos simple and soft with the focus on the connection and emotion between people. Comfortable is key as if you aren’t comfortable in your clothing choice, this will show in front of the camera.

6. Don’t forget about the shoes. Be sure to keep your footwear in mind. Nothing will throw your look off more than a ratty old pair of shoes. If you are outdoor, consider boots, and outdoor clothing that always looks authentic put the kids in wellies, or if it's summer casual sandals and summer clothing. You can still dress smartly when we are shooting in a woodland. It is really your choice. 

The above are just a couple of examples of how you could start to translate a wardrobe into a palette that works in unison for all of the family. These are all family shoots I have captured and where families have tried to coordinate within the realms of their own tastes and styles. The clothing types can be adjusted to what you have in your own wardrobe. 

If you have any other questions please get in touch via email!