What to Wear for Studio Family Photos: 2025 Guide

As both a photographer and a mom, I know the hardest part of family photos isn’t the actual photos—it’s figuring out what everyone should wear. You stress, you overthink, you want it all to be perfect (been there, done that). After years of photographing families, I’ve learned a few go-to tips that make choosing outfits for the studio way easier.

Choosing Colors and Patterns for your Studio Family Session

Choosing a cohesive color pallet for family pictures is my favorite part! I would suggest sticking with neutrals, earth tones, or even pastel colors…so think grays, creams, soft blues, muted pinks, khaki, or dusty greens. These colors tend to complement a wide variety of skin tones and are classic and timeless!

As far as patterns and designs, if you prefer patterns over solid colors (which I am a sucker for a good pattern!), small and understated patterns like a calico or small stripes are great. They read as a solid pattern from the camera’s perspective (but still had some movement), and keep your clothing from becoming the focal point of the session.

Consider layers or textures (PLEASE!! texture is magical!) like a chunky knitted sweater, eyelet, tulle, denim, or a shirt with a collar can really add visual interest and depth to a portrait.

Some Things to Avoid:

While I want your session to reflect who you are as a family, there are some things I’d suggest avoiding when choosing outfits for your family photos:

Avoid logos or graphics.
Not only are they distracting, but they also tend to date your photos much faster than other clothing choices.

Large patterns or florals.
They tend to cause chaos, distract from faces, and create overly busy images.

No neon colors.
If you wear a really bright shirt, it will leave an unusual color cast on your face and whoever is standing next to you. Neon colors overpower a photo and look really jarring! (Just don’t do it… trust me.)

Where to Start:

When I’m selecting outfits for my own family, I always start with one outfit. Maybe my daughter has a really cute pinafore I just have to have in photos, or I know my son will only wear clothes that feel a certain way. Figure out one person’s outfit that you really love, and then build everyone else’s clothes from that first one. Starting this way makes the whole process of choosing outfits so much easier!

What to Wear Tips for Mom:

Clothes that flow and move well.
Dresses are great for family photos. Not only are they flattering, but they’re also comfortable. Dresses can be dressed up or down depending on the vibe you want for your portraits. However, dresses aren’t mandatory—jeans with a ruffly top or a sassy jumpsuit work great too. I just want to make sure you feel confident and beautiful in what you’re wearing—and like you!

Accentuate the good.
Let’s be honest—most of us feel unsure about some parts of our bodies. I prefer to cover my own arms with billowy sleeves or a jacket.

Be sure you can move comfortably.
Even in the studio, I’ll have you sitting, standing, hugging your husband, and snuggling your kids. Make sure you can move your arms, sit easily… and breathe!

Clothing Tips for Dad:

Keep it Simple. Most men I know prefer a casual, easy outfit. That means a Henley or a button-up collared shirt paired with crisp jeans or chinos. Easy peasy!

Outfit Choices for Kids:

Make sure they’re comfortable.
Number one rule for a happy photo session: kids who are comfortable in their clothes. If a sweater is itchy or pants are too tight, things will go downhill fast. Try outfits on at home before coming to the studio to make sure everyone’s happy with how their clothes feel!

Easy clothes.
If a strap, bow, or whatever keeps sliding down or coming untied—and we have to fuss with it the whole session—your child’s going to get frustrated (and honestly, so will we).

Cover those bums.
If your little girl is wearing a cute dress, make sure to grab matching bloomers or a diaper cover. There’s nothing worse than an adorable photo ruined by a peek of diaper or underwear. It’s an easy fix—you can find exactly what you need on Amazon!

Should we Wear Shoes?

I’ll be honest—I still haven’t decided if I like when families wear shoes or not. I’m going to leave this one up to you! I’ve had families with lots of younger kids kick their shoes off so we can see their cute little piggies. However, if you have a family with older children, leaving your shoes on might be the way to go!

If you decide to keep your shoes on, be sure they’re clean and free of scuffs or excessive wear and tear.

Need More Help?

You can email or text me if you have any questions about your outfit choices! I’m happy to talk things over or add suggestions!

Favorite Retailers:

Ivy City Co. - Has some really great dresses for woman and girls.

Baltic Born - Also a great option for dresses for women.

Loft - From dressy to casual, Loft has a lot of great options for women.

J. Crew - Preppy, dressy options for men and women

H&M - I love H&M’s kid’s clothes. You can find some really cute, classic, and unique pieces for kids without breaking the bank.

Noralee - Such beautiful dresses for girls and dressy outfits for boys. Chef’s kiss!

Rylee + Crew - Beautiful outfits for babies, boys and girls that are timeless and will make your children looked like they stepped out of the past!

Oat Co. - All things baby. Gorgeous knit sweaters and rompers.

Target - Honestly can’t go wrong with Target! Perfect for the whole family!