For a lot of families, the hardest part of family photos isn’t choosing a location or getting everyone to smile – it’s figuring out what to wear. Even for me, planning outfits for my own family sessions with five kids takes the longest. If you’re unsure where to start, these color palettes can help you find flattering combinations.

The good news? You don’t have to overthink it. A little planning goes a long way in making sure everyone looks and feels great in photos.

Some Things to Keep in Mind:

1. Start with Mom’s Outfit

I always recommend choosing mom’s outfit first and building from there. When you feel beautiful and comfortable, it sets the tone for the whole session.

• Flowy dresses with movement look gorgeous in photos.
• Not a dress person? No problem. Wear what makes you feel great – just avoid stiff, restrictive fabrics.
• Stick to soft, neutral, or earthy tones for a natural, timeless look.

2. Pick a Color Palette That Works Together

Gone are the days of matching white shirts and khaki pants – now we’re looking for beautifully coordinated outfitsinstead of identical ones.

• Choose 2-3 main colors that complement each other.
• If one person wears a pattern, pull colors from it for the rest of the family.
• Subtle textures like lace or knits can add depth without clashing.

3. Add Visual Interest with Layers & Accessories

Small details can elevate your photos and add personality.

• Hats, layers, jewelry, and textured fabrics all help create dimension.
• Avoid large logos, graphic tees, and neon colors, which can distract.
• Shoes matter – make sure they complement your outfit and don’t stand out in the wrong way.

4. Consider Where You’ll Display These Photos

Think about where you’ll be hanging or printing these images. Do you want warm, neutral tones that blend with your home decor, or are you drawn to deeper, richer colors? Keeping this in mind can help you decide on your color palette.

Let’s Look at Some Examples:

Here, mom is wearing a flowy floral dress. The rest of the colors coordinate beautifully with the print. Dad and son are wearing layers, and the little girl’s lace dress adds texture – such a great mix.

This mama chose a ruffle-detailed top and jeans. Her daughters’ outfits feature subtle patterns that complement each other without competing.

In this one, mom wears a solid-colored dress while her daughter is in a print. The other colors work well together, and she added layers to complete the look.

Ready to plan your session? Let’s make outfit planning stress-free – whether you need help choosing what to wear for family photos or want to browse my client closet, I’m here to help. Book your session here.