What to Wear for Your Family Photo Shoot: Tips for Timeless, Comfortable Style

Avonlee Amis Photography – Ventura County Family Photographer

Family photos are more than just pictures — they’re the story of your family in this season of life. The right outfits can bring your personalities and connections to life, creating images that feel natural, timeless, and true to you.

If you’ve ever wondered “What should we wear for our family photo session?” — you’re in the right place! Here are my favorite tips to help you plan looks that photograph beautifully and feel comfortable for everyone.

This is what I put together for my own family’s photos this year, and I hope it offers a little inspiration for yours. I started with a floral dress for my daughter and used that as my jumping-off point. From there, I shopped our closets and filled in a few gaps to create outfits that reflect each of our individual styles while still feeling cohesive as a whole.

Here’s another family photo outfit idea — a bit more casual, with a different color palette — while still following the same principles of coordinating color, texture, and pattern.

Start with a Color Palette

Choose 2–3 main colors and build everyone’s outfits around them. I like to start with one piece that inspires me — maybe a dress, a shirt, or a favorite pattern — and then build the rest of the looks from there.

Soft, neutral tones photograph beautifully in Ventura County’s golden light, especially on the beach or in open fields. But when choosing your color scheme, don’t be afraid of color! You don’t have to stick to white or beige to create a cohesive, timeless look. Muted jewel tones or softly saturated colors can bring so much warmth, life, and joy to your family photos.

Coordinate, Don’t Match

As you probably know, the days of everyone wearing the same white shirt and jeans are over! Instead, aim for coordinated outfits that share a color palette but have variety in textures and tones.

Once you’ve chosen your palette, play with patterns and textures to add visual interest. Layering with complementary pieces — a jacket, vest, or sweater tied around the shoulders — is a great way to add depth and personality to your family photo outfits. When choosing patterns, opt for smaller prints so the clothing doesn’t distract from the subject.

Dress for Comfort and Movement

Choose clothing that lets you move, snuggle, and play — especially with little ones. Avoid clothing that feels stiff or requires constant adjusting. If you’re comfortable, it shows in your photos!

Be sure to keep the season in mind and check the weather so you don’t wind up uncomfortable.

Keep It Simple

Avoid bright logos, large patterns, or neon colors — they can distract from your family’s connection and the light we’ll be working with.

Don’t Forget the Details

Shoes, hats, and accessories are the finishing touches that complete your look. They’re also a wonderful way to make your outfits feel personal and meaningful. Consider incorporating heirloom jewelry, a favorite hat, or dress your kids in a piece of clothing that you once wore. These small but intentional details help tell your family’s story — creating images that feel timeless, genuine, and uniquely yours.

Plan Ahead

Try everything on a few days before your session. Iron or steam clothing to remove wrinkles, and make sure everyone feels comfortable in what they’re wearing. If you have small children, it’s always a good idea to have a back up outfit!

If you’re not sure what works best, I’m always happy to help with wardrobe planning! Clients receive personalized outfit guidance to make getting ready stress-free and enjoyable.

Ready to Book Your Family Session?

If you’re in search of relaxed, heartfelt photos that celebrate your family just as you are, I’d love to work with you!

Book Your Family Session Here
or browse my Portfolio to see more Ventura County family sessions.