What Not to Wear for a Family Photo Session

Mar 16

Your family photo session is a special time to capture the love and connection you share with the people who matter most. While selecting the perfect outfits can feel overwhelming, knowing what *not* to wear can simplify the process and ensure your photos turn out beautifully. As a photographer, I’m here to help you avoid some common styling pitfalls so that your family looks and feels amazing!

Here are my top tips for what to avoid when dressing for your family session:

1. Avoid Bright, Neon Colors

Neon colors can be fun in everyday life, but they don’t always photograph well. Bright, neon shades like hot pink, lime green, and electric blue tend to overpower the rest of the image, making it hard to focus on the true star of the photos—your family! These colors also tend to reflect harshly on the skin, which can create unnatural-looking tones in the photos.

Instead, stick to softer, muted tones or warm, earthy colors that complement the natural surroundings and the emotion in the images.

2. Steer Clear of Large Logos or Distracting Patterns

While your favorite branded tee might be comfortable, large logos and bold graphics can draw attention away from the faces and emotions in your family portraits. Similarly, bold or busy patterns—like thick stripes or polka dots—can be distracting and clash with the overall vibe of the photo.

Instead, choose solid colors or subtle patterns that enhance the overall look without pulling focus. Think about how your outfits work together as a family, creating a harmonious look without any one element standing out too much.

3. Say No to Matching Outfits

While matching family outfits used to be a trend (hello, 90s!), it can feel outdated and a little too coordinated for today’s photography style. Matching exactly from head to toe can take away from the unique personalities of your family members.

Rather than dressing everyone in the same color or style, go for a **coordinated look** with complementary tones and textures. This allows everyone’s personality to shine through while still creating a cohesive and balanced look.

4. Avoid Clothing That’s Too Tight or Too Baggy

Comfort is key during your photo session, especially if you’ll be walking, playing, or cuddling with your little ones. Clothes that are too tight can make it hard to move and may leave you feeling uncomfortable, while clothes that are too baggy can look sloppy and unflattering in photos.

The best approach is to wear clothes that fit well and allow you to move naturally. Look for pieces that you feel confident in and that allow you to interact with your family without worrying about adjusting your outfit.

5. Skip Trendy Pieces You Wouldn’t Normally Wear

It can be tempting to buy that trendy outfit you’ve been eyeing for your photo session, but you want your family photos to feel timeless, and wearing pieces that are too trendy may not stand the test of time. Plus, if the clothing doesn’t feel like “you,” it can make you feel less comfortable during the session.

Stick to pieces that reflect who you are and how you feel most confident. When you’re comfortable and authentic in your clothing, your confidence and love will shine through in the photos!

6. Say Goodbye to Uncomfortable Shoes

If your session is outdoors, avoid high heels or shoes that are difficult to walk in. You’ll likely be moving around, playing with your kids, or walking on uneven surfaces like grass or dirt paths. Uncomfortable shoes can limit your mobility and make the session less enjoyable.

Opt for shoes that are practical and comfortable but still stylish. Ankle boots, flats, or simple sandals (for warmer weather) are great choices that won’t take away from your overall look but will keep you feeling good during the session.

7. Avoid Over-Accessorizing

Accessories can add a lot to an outfit, but too many can be distracting in photos. Large, statement pieces or too many layers of jewelry can take attention away from the emotion in the images. The goal is to keep the focus on your family and the connections between you, not on any one accessory.

A few carefully chosen pieces—like a simple necklace, scarf, or hat—can add a nice touch without taking over the image. And only one person should wear a hat.

Choosing what to wear for your family photo session doesn’t have to be stressful! By keeping these “what not to wear” tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to creating timeless, heartfelt images that you’ll love for years to come. Remember, the most important thing is that you and your family feel comfortable and confident, allowing your genuine connection and love to shine through in every shot.

Need some extra help? I offer a curated selection of dresses for women who have booked a session with me, and I’d love to help you style your entire family for a stress-free, fun, and beautiful photo session!