What to Wear - How to choose your outfits for Family Portraits

The biggest thing to consider while you're deciding on outfits for your family portraits is to choose coordinating colors between each family member instead of trying to match the colors.

What to wear for family photos color palette of coordinating colors

Choose coordinating colors instead of trying to match the colors.





Remember that a variety of textures & fabrics is a good idea too (knits, cottons, linens, denim).

3 pieces to avoid wearing

  1. shirts with words printed on the front

  2. shirts with big graphics (no cartoon characters)

  3. shirts that make you feel uncomfortable



3 pieces that are must haves

  1. shirts with your favorite neck line

  2. shirts in your favorite color

  3. shirts that you feel your best in

Use this checklist to cover all the options

Mom:

  • A light solid colored shirt (white, beige, light pink, light blue, light gray)

  • A dark solid colored shirt (black, dark gray, dark blue)

  • Lightly patterned shirt (flowers, pin-stripes, etc.)

  • Stylish blouse

  • Solid color knit sweater

  • Favorite pair of jeans with belt

  • Favorite dress (solid color or minimal pattern)


Dad:

  • light solid colored t-shirt (white, beige, light pink, light blue, light gray)

  • dark solid colored t-shirt (black, dark gray, dark blue)

  • Plain patterned button-up shirt (checked, plaid, pin-stripes)

  • Solid white (or light colored) button-up shirt

  • Favorite pair of jeans with belt

  • Favorite pair of dress pants with belt


Kids:

  • Solid colored or minimally patterned dress/romper/shirt/skirt

  • Solid colored button up shirt (that is still comfortable)

  • Comfortable jeans or khakis (shorts or pants are ok too)

REMEMBER: No cartoon characters or words printed on the front since they will be distracting in your photos.


For footwear, I like the look of bare feet in photos, especially with the kiddos.

But if you'd prefer to wear shoes, then make sure they're clean and coordinate with the outfits.


Lastly, a few extra things to think about:

  • Jewelry (earrings, necklace, wedding ring)

  • Finger nails (trimmed, cleaned, painted)

  • Hydrated lips (bring chapstick and/or gloss along)

And if you’re looking for a little extra help, I recommend my favorite Personal Stylist, Robyn, at GracefulImpression.com. She offers zoom sessions where she helps you “shop your closet” to choose the best outfit for your session.

Family PortraitsKellie HenriksenKellie Henriksen Photographystudio photo session, what to wear, prepare for your session