How to Dress for a Family Portrait Shoot

Tips for Picture-Perfect Outfits

Family portraits are treasured keepsakes, capturing memories for years to come. However, one question often looms large as picture day approaches: *What should we wear?* Dressing for a family portrait shoot involves more than just coordinating colors or picking out favorite outfits. It’s about achieving a cohesive look that represents your family’s unique style while ensuring the pictures look timeless and polished. Here’s a guide to help you dress your family for a successful portrait shoot.

1. Coordinate, Don’t Match

Gone are the days of everyone wearing the same outfit in different sizes. Instead, aim to coordinate your outfits by choosing a color palette that complements one another. Select 2-3 base colors and mix in neutrals for balance. This way, each family member can express their style, but the group will still look unified.

For example, if you choose navy, white, and blush, some family members can wear solid navy, others can mix in patterns or textures with blush or white, and accessories can bring it all together.

2. Consider the Location

The setting of your family portrait plays a significant role in determining what you should wear. If your shoot is outdoors in a natural environment (such as a park or beach), soft colors, earthy tones, and relaxed styles may work best. For a more urban setting, you might opt for a modern, sleek look with bold colors or more structured clothing.

Examples:

• Outdoor, natural setting: soft blues, creams, olive greens, light grays

• Urban, industrial setting: blacks, jewel tones, deep reds, metallics

3. Timeless Over Trendy

While it’s fun to follow fashion trends, family portraits are meant to be timeless. Avoid clothing that will look dated in a few years (think extreme patterns or overly trendy accessories). Instead, focus on classic pieces that won’t go out of style. Think well-tailored shirts, simple dresses, and structured jackets. Simple, solid colors and light patterns tend to stand the test of time.

4. Pay Attention to Textures and Layers

Adding texture and layers can bring depth to your photos. A knitted sweater, a scarf, or a textured blouse can make an outfit pop in pictures without being overwhelming. Layers are especially useful for outdoor shoots as they add dimension and give you options in case the weather changes.

For example, a denim jacket over a floral dress or a wool scarf paired with a solid shirt can create a more dynamic look.

5. Mind the Shoes

It’s easy to forget about shoes, but they’re an essential part of your outfit, especially in full-body shots. Make sure everyone’s footwear complements their outfit and the overall aesthetic of the shoot. Clean, simple shoes that align with the formality of the portrait (whether casual, semi-formal, or formal) will help keep the look consistent. Avoid sneakers (unless they’re part of the theme) and opt for more polished options like boots, flats, or dress shoes. Obviously, children will need to be considered seperately. Often, they are they under duress so be strategic and go with a path of least resistance.

6. Think About Comfort

While style is important, so is comfort. If you or your children are uncomfortable in your outfits, it will show in the pictures. Make sure everyone can move freely, especially if young kids are involved. It’s also a good idea to dress in weather-appropriate layers if you’re shooting outdoors.

7. Limit Distracting Patterns

Patterns can add visual interest, but too many bold or clashing patterns can distract from the main focus of the photo—your family! If you choose to incorporate patterns, aim for subtle ones like stripes, checks, or florals and balance them with solid colors. Avoid logos, large graphics, or busy prints that could take attention away from your faces.

8. Consider Seasonal Colors

Take inspiration from the season when choosing your color scheme. In the fall, earthy tones like mustard, burgundy, and forest green work well against the backdrop of changing leaves. For spring or summer, pastel shades and light fabrics reflect the fresh, airy feel of the season. Winter portraits may call for deeper shades like navy, maroon, or emerald, paired with cozy knits.

9. Accessorize Thoughtfully

Accessories can enhance your family’s outfits but should be kept minimal and tasteful. A statement necklace, a stylish hat, or a patterned scarf can add personality without overwhelming the photo. For children, consider simple headbands or bows instead of large, distracting accessories. Be mindful of jewelry that might catch the light in an unflattering way.

10. Plan Ahead and Try On Outfits

Lastly, don’t wait until the last minute to decide what to wear. Plan your outfits in advance and try everything on to ensure that pieces fit well and look cohesive together. This also gives you time to make adjustments if something doesn’t work or feels uncomfortable.

Conclusion

Dressing for a family portrait shoot is all about balance—finding outfits that reflect your family’s unique personality while ensuring the photos remain timeless. By coordinating your looks, paying attention to details, and thinking about comfort, you can create a polished and harmonious appearance that will make your portraits truly shine.

Ultimately, the goal is to capture the love and connection within your family, so relax, have fun, and enjoy the moment!