WHAT TO WEAR FOR YOUR FAMILY PHOTOSHOOT
- Ellen Manilova
- Dec 23, 2024
- 4 min read
STILL WONDERING WHAT TO WEAR FOR YOUR FAMILY PHOTOSHOOT? HERE’S A STYLE GUIDE FOR PICTURE-PERFECT MOMENTS
Has it ever happened that you’ve scheduled a family photoshoot only to realize you have no idea what everyone should wear? Trust me, you’re not alone. Whether you’re capturing precious moments with a newborn, celebrating an upcoming addition to the family, or simply craving fresh portraits of your growing kids, choosing outfits can feel overwhelming. From color palettes to comfort levels, every detail matters because you want these photos to reflect who you truly are — happy, relaxed, and connected.
In my experience shooting all kinds of families — from big extended gatherings to couples expecting their first child — the goal is always the same: capture genuine emotions and sweet, candid interactions that define a family’s love. And guess what? What you wear can either enhance that warmth or distract from it. Ready for some friendly tips? Let’s dive in!
EMBRACE COMFORT ABOVE ALL
If there’s one piece of advice I could shout from the rooftops, it’s this: stay comfortable! If Mom hasn’t worn a dress in years, putting on a new one for the first time at the shoot might feel awkward. Stick to items you already love — clothing that makes you feel confident and moves with you. That way, when it’s time to cuddle a newborn or chase a toddler, you’re not stiff or self-conscious.
Pro Tip: If you’re shooting at the ocean (or anywhere near water!), remember you might get splashed. Bring extra clothes for yourself and the kids — you’d be surprised how quickly a little wave can leave everyone drenched!
COORDINATE COLORS WITH THE LOCATION
One of the easiest ways to make your photos look polished is by choosing colors that suit the environment. Shooting by the shore? Soft blues, creams, beiges, and yellows look amazing against the waves and sand. Planning a park session? Earthy greens, browns, or gentle pastels blend beautifully with the scenery. The key is to complement the setting, not clash with it.
Pro Tip: Neutrals or “bedding” tones (like beige, gray, and light brown) usually work well wherever you shoot. They keep the focus on you — your family’s smiles and chemistry — rather than on bright patterns or neon shades.
MATCH STYLES, NOT EXACT OUTFITS
No one wants an overly “matchy-matchy” look, but having a shared style helps your group feel cohesive. If the women in the family are wearing dresses, encourage the men to choose similarly polished outfits — not sports shorts or super-casual wear if everyone else is going dressy. It’s all about striking that balance so each outfit feels like part of a bigger theme.
Pro Tip: If you prefer shorts in warm weather, choose something tailored or at least structured so the overall look remains consistent with everyone else.
KEEP IT TRUE TO YOUR LIFESTYLE
While I’m all for stepping out of your comfort zone a bit, don’t stray too far from your family’s natural vibe. My shooting style is relaxed and candid, focusing on capturing a slice of your everyday life. If you’re typically laid-back, keep it that way; if you love getting dressed up, shine in a more formal outfit. The key is ensuring you’re relaxed enough to show genuine affection and connection.
Pro Tip: Picture your usual weekend wear if you were going out for a special occasion — that’s often a sweet spot where you feel comfortable but still a bit dressed up.
PLAN AHEAD AND TEST DRIVE
If you haven’t worn certain pieces in a while, try them on a few days before. Walk around, sit, play with the kids, and see how you feel. The last thing you want is to discover that your shoes pinch or your dress feels too tight right when the session starts.
Pro Tip: Lay all the outfits on your bed together (or snap a quick photo of them side by side) to see how the colors and styles work. This “dress rehearsal” can save you from unexpected mismatches.
Ultimately, a family photoshoot is about celebrating who you are — every giggle, cuddle, and silly face in between. Wearing the right clothes isn’t about perfection; it’s about allowing yourself to relax and enjoy the moment. When you feel comfortable, that joy shines through in every shot. Embrace your family’s unique style, coordinate your looks thoughtfully, and remember: the best accessory is a laid-back, playful spirit that lets your true connection come alive on camera.
Ready to capture all those warm, candid moments? I’m here to help plan every detail — from outfit suggestions to picking the perfect location. Feel free to reach out via Instagram or email me directly at manilova.art@gmail.com , and let’s craft a day of photography you’ll always cherish!
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