Capturing Memories: Choosing what to wear for a family photoshoot
Family photos are one of the best ways to document your family’s growth and connection over time. They’re a way to freeze a moment in time and capture the love and joy you share.
And while the smiles and poses are important, what you wear plays a huge role in the overall look and feel of your photos. The right outfits can make your family photos even more special and help you create lasting memories.
That’s why we’ve put together this guide. We’ll give you practical tips and inspiration so you can create a cohesive and stylish look for your next family photoshoot.
Understanding the Essentials: Setting the Stage for Outfit Success
Choosing the right outfits for a family photoshoot is about more than just picking clothes. It’s about creating a cohesive visual story that captures your family’s personality and the spirit of the moment. Here are some key things to think about.
Consider the Photoshoot’s Context
Where will the photos be taken? What time of year is it? What kind of feeling do you want the photos to have?
- Location: Are you posing on a beach, frolicking in a park, or gathering in a studio or at home? Your outfits should look good in that setting, not fight with it.
- Season: Light fabrics work well in the summer, while warm layers are perfect for fall. Think about colors, too. Seasonal color palettes can really make your photos pop.
- Style: Do you want your photos to look casual, formal, rustic, or modern? Your outfits should reflect that style and create a coordinated look.
Comfort is Key: Ensuring a Happy Family During the Shoot
If you’re not comfortable, it’ll show in the photos! Choose clothes that allow you to move freely and interact naturally.
This is especially true for kids. If they’re uncomfortable, they’re not going to be happy, and happy kids make for better photos. A comfortable family is a relaxed family, and a relaxed family will enjoy the photoshoot more.
Coordinating colors: Creating a visually harmonious look
One of the biggest challenges in planning a family photoshoot is deciding what everyone should wear. The goal is to create a pleasing, coordinated look without being too “matchy-matchy.” Here’s how to achieve that:
The art of coordination, not matching
The key is to coordinate outfits, not duplicate them. You want to use similar colors and tones, but avoid making it look like everyone’s wearing a uniform. Select a color palette and let that guide your choices. For example, if one person wears a patterned shirt, pull colors from that pattern to inspire the other outfits.
Neutral territory: Building a foundation with versatile colors
Neutrals are your friends! Colors like cream, tan, and gray can enhance coordination without making everyone look identical. These colors provide a versatile base upon which to build your palette.
That said, be careful with black and navy. Too much of these dark colors can weigh down the photos and obscure details. If you use them, be sure to balance them with lighter tones to avoid a somber feel.
Exploring color palette ideas
Here are a couple of color palette ideas to get you started:
- Jewel tones: Deep reds, emerald greens, and sapphire blues evoke richness and sophistication.
- Muted tones: Soft pastels and earthy hues create a calm and natural feel.
Let your personalities shine
The best family photoshoots capture real, genuine moments. You want to choose outfits that enhance your family’s personality instead of distracting from it.
Embrace your personal style
Don’t be afraid to let everyone’s personal style shine. If your son loves band t-shirts, let him wear one! If your daughter is all about sparkles, find a way to incorporate some shimmer. The more comfortable and confident everyone feels in their clothes, the better the photos will be.
Accessorize wisely
Layers and accessories are a great way to add some extra personality and visual interest to your photos without going overboard. Think scarves, hats, vests, and jewelry.
Think timeless
While it’s fun to experiment with trends, family photos are forever. For photos you’ll love for years to come, choose classic, timeless styles over fleeting fads.
Practical considerations: Ensuring a smooth photoshoot experience
Figuring out what to wear for a family photoshoot can be stressful, but with a little planning, you can make sure the day goes smoothly and you get the pictures you’re hoping for.
Choose outfits first
Pick your own outfit first, and then coordinate the color palette for everyone else. This way, you know you’ll feel great in what you’re wearing, and you can build the rest of the group’s looks around that.
Bring multiple outfit options
It’s never a bad idea to bring options. Pack three or four outfits per person so you can adapt to changes in lighting or location. You might want to have one dressy outfit and one more casual outfit, for example.
Small details matter
Don’t forget the small things! Make sure pockets are empty, jewelry is in good repair, and fingernails are neat. Stray accessories can be distracting, so it’s worth taking a few minutes to double-check before the photographer starts snapping.
Prepare in advance
Don’t wait until the last minute to decide what everyone’s going to wear. Plan outfits in advance, and have everyone try them on to make sure they fit well and are comfortable. This will save you a lot of stress on the day of the photoshoot.
Specific Outfit Advice: Tailoring to Different Family Dynamics
Of course, the clothes you choose will depend on the type of photoshoot you’re planning. Here are a few tips for specific situations:
Maternity Sessions
For a maternity photoshoot, choose clothes that are comfortable and flattering and that show off your baby bump. Flowing dresses, stretchy fabrics, and well-fitting tops can all look beautiful.
Newborn Sessions
If you’re planning a newborn photoshoot, put soft, gentle fabrics at the top of your list. Simple designs are best for delicate skin.
Plus-Size Considerations
The most important thing is to choose outfits that flatter your figure and make you feel confident. Don’t be afraid to try different styles and cuts until you find something that you love. A good photographer should be able to pose you in ways that highlight your best features.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best color to wear for a family photoshoot?
There’s no single “best” color! Instead, think about your location and the overall vibe you’re aiming for. Neutrals like creams, grays, and soft blues are always a safe bet, but don’t be afraid to incorporate pops of color that complement your surroundings. Avoid overly bright or neon colors, as they can be distracting.
What to wear to a family photoshoot outdoors?
For outdoor photoshoots, consider the season and setting. Earthy tones and muted colors work well in natural landscapes. Flowy dresses and comfortable clothing are ideal for warmer weather, while cozy sweaters and scarves are perfect for fall or winter. Layering can add visual interest and keep everyone comfortable.
How to dress family for a photoshoot?
Coordinate, don’t match! Choose a color palette and let everyone pick outfits within that range. Aim for a cohesive look without being too uniform. Consider the location and choose styles that complement the setting. Don’t be afraid to mix textures and patterns, but keep it balanced and avoid anything too busy or distracting.
What not to wear for a family photo shoot?
Avoid clothing with large logos, distracting patterns, or busy graphics, as they can take away from the focus on your faces. Steer clear of overly trendy or uncomfortable outfits that will make you feel self-conscious. Also, be mindful of colors that might clash with the background or other family members’ outfits. And please, no athletic wear!
Closing Thoughts
When planning outfits for your family photoshoot, remember that comfort, coordination, and personal style are key. If you’re comfortable and confident in what you’re wearing, that will shine through in the photos.
Don’t be afraid to let your personality and your family’s personality guide your clothing choices. And, most importantly, relax, have fun, and focus on making lasting memories. The goal is to capture the love and connection you share, so try to let go of any stress and enjoy the moment.