Family photoshoots are a wonderful way to preserve precious moments and create lasting memories. But before you grab your camera or head to the photographer, choosing the perfect family photoshoot outfits can feel like a big challenge. The right outfits can make all the difference in ensuring that your photos look coordinated, timeless, and truly special. Over the years, I’ve gathered plenty of experience in family photoshoots, and I’m excited to share these 15 outfit ideas that will make your next session a hit!
1. Classic Neutrals for a Timeless Look
When in doubt, neutrals are always a safe choice. Think beige, ivory, gray, and soft whites. These colors complement any setting, from indoor studios to outdoor gardens. Neutrals also create a timeless, cohesive look that won’t feel outdated as trends change. Plus, they let your family’s personalities shine without competing with bright, distracting colors.
For a cozy winter shoot, you could layer up in sweaters and scarves in these calming shades, while a summer shoot can be breezy with light linen shirts and dresses. I’ve found that neutral tones always photograph beautifully, no matter the season.
2. Complementary Pastels for Soft, Dreamy Photos
If you love soft, romantic vibes, pastel colors are a great choice. Light pinks, soft blues, mint greens, and lavender bring out a gentle, serene feeling in your photos. Pastels also work perfectly for spring or summer sessions.
I once styled a family photoshoot with pastel shades, and the result was stunning. The family was dressed in delicate pastel colors that made them look fresh and youthful, yet elegant. It’s a great choice if you want to capture a more relaxed, natural feel.
3. Bold and Vibrant for Fun and Energy
For those who want to add a bit more energy and excitement to their photos, bold and vibrant colors like red, cobalt blue, or emerald green can make your family pop! These colors look fantastic in outdoor settings, particularly in the fall with the autumn leaves or in a bright, urban landscape.
Be careful not to go too overboard, though. Too many bold colors can distract from the overall picture. I recommend using one or two vibrant shades as accent colors while keeping the rest of the outfits neutral or muted.
4. Coordinating Outfits Without Matching
Gone are the days when every family member had to wear matching outfits. Now, the trend is about coordinating styles and colors, not copying each other exactly. This approach creates a more natural, organic look in photos.
For example, one family member might wear a patterned dress, while others wear solid colors that tie back to the tones in the pattern. It’s about balance and making sure no one stands out too much. I’ve seen this coordination approach work wonders for family shoots—everyone feels comfortable, yet the outfits still look unified.
5. Bohemian Vibes for a Free-Spirited Look
Boho-chic outfits are a fantastic option for families who want a relaxed, earthy, and artistic vibe. Flowy dresses, loose-fitting shirts, and accessories like hats or headbands work beautifully for outdoor photoshoots, especially in natural settings like beaches or forests.
One of my most memorable family photoshoots was in a meadow, with the family dressed in soft, flowy fabrics, and earthy tones like browns, oranges, and mustard yellows. The result was so effortlessly beautiful that it felt like a page out of a storybook.
6. Farmhouse Style for a Cozy, Rustic Feel
If you’re aiming for a rustic, country feel, farmhouse-inspired outfits are a perfect fit. Think denim, flannel shirts, and dresses with lace or ruffles. Earth tones like burnt orange, denim blue, and deep reds complement this style and bring out a warm, inviting vibe.
For one family shoot I styled, we chose cozy sweaters, distressed jeans, and a simple barn background. It looked like they belonged in a cozy country house, and the photos turned out warm and inviting.
7. Casual and Comfortable for Everyday Photos
Not every family shoot has to be dressed-up or fancy. Sometimes, the best photos happen when everyone feels at ease. Think casual T-shirts, denim jackets, or simple button-down shirts. These outfits are relaxed yet polished enough for beautiful photos.
I once styled a family in casual outfits for a shoot in their own home, and the results were breathtaking. The family was comfortable and had natural smiles that came from just being themselves, which made the photos even more special.
8. Seasonal Outfits for a Cozy Holiday Feel
If your photoshoot is around the holidays or winter months, seasonal outfits are a fun option. Christmas sweaters, scarves, and boots all create a cozy, festive vibe. A Christmas tree or snowy backdrop will enhance the warmth and joy of the season.
For a Christmas family shoot I coordinated, we chose matching plaid flannel shirts and knitted sweaters, and the setting was a cozy fireplace. It was the perfect combination of style and seasonal spirit!
9. Elegant and Formal for a Luxe Feel
For those who want a more sophisticated and formal photoshoot, consider going for elegant, polished outfits. This could include suits for the men, dresses for the women, and even dress shoes or heels. Formal photoshoots work best in professional studios or upscale locations like elegant parks or historic buildings.
During one formal family session I styled, the family wore coordinated black, white, and gold tones. They looked chic and timeless, and the photos exuded elegance and class.
10. Playful Prints for a Fun, Unique Look
Patterns and prints can add a lot of personality and charm to your family photos. Think floral dresses for the girls, checkered shirts for the guys, and subtle stripes or polka dots for the kids. Be careful to not overdo it, though! I recommend using prints sparingly and balancing them with solid colors so the patterns don’t overwhelm the shot.
I once had a family wear subtle stripes and florals for a spring photoshoot, and it was absolutely adorable. The playful prints brought so much character to the photos without taking away from the family’s bond.
11. Mixing Textures for Depth and Interest
Textures like denim, wool, and lace can add visual interest to your family photos. By mixing different textures—think wool sweaters paired with denim jeans or lace dresses with leather jackets—you’ll create depth and make the images stand out.
One family I worked with chose textured outfits like cable-knit sweaters and soft velvet pants, and the photos turned out rich and captivating. Mixing textures really gives your photos a layered, sophisticated look.
12. Color Blocking for a Bold, Contemporary Look
If you love modern, sleek designs, color blocking can create a striking effect in your photos. By pairing solid blocks of contrasting colors, you’ll give your family’s outfits a stylish, contemporary feel. Think navy with mustard yellow, black with white, or coral with teal.
I styled a family with bold color-blocked dresses for the girls and matching shirts for the guys, and the resulting photos were eye-catching and fun!
13. Matching Accessories for Extra Coordination
Accessories can take your family photos to the next level. Hats, scarves, shoes, and jewelry can tie the whole look together. I’ve seen families wear matching scarves or hats, and the extra coordination always brings the outfit to life without feeling too forced.
For a recent shoot, the family wore matching leather boots, and it added a rustic, coordinated touch to their outfits. Even simple accessories can make a world of difference.
14. Vintage-Inspired Outfits for a Timeless Feel
Vintage outfits are perfect for creating classic, nostalgic photos. Think dresses with lace and bows, suspenders, and old-fashioned hats. A vintage look is especially striking if you’re shooting in a location with historic architecture or old-school charm.
I’ve styled vintage-themed shoots that looked straight out of the past, and the result was simply magical. The outfits were beautiful, and the photos felt like timeless pieces of art.
15. Shooting with Comfort in Mind
Above all, the most important aspect of your family’s outfits should be comfort. If everyone feels good in what they’re wearing, that energy will shine through in the photos. Whether it’s a favorite pair of sneakers or a cozy cardigan, comfort leads to genuine smiles and relaxed poses.
I’ve always noticed that when a family is at ease in their clothing, the photos look more natural and authentic. So, don’t be afraid to prioritize comfort—it’s the key to the best shots.
