What To Wear For Family Pictures - Ideas for All Family Members
When it comes to capturing family memories, the right outfit is essential for creating a harmonious and aesthetically pleasing image. The clothing choices for family pictures can impact the overall feel and look of the photos.
In this article, we'll explore essential tips and examples to help guide your wardrobe decisions for the perfect family portrait.
Table of Contents:
1. 29 Outfit ideas
2. Which colors and patterns should I wear for a family photo shoot?
3. Which type of clothing should I wear for my family portrait?
4. Should we follow a certain theme or color scheme?
5. Which accessories should I wear for my family photo shoot?
6. What are some outfit choices I should avoid?
7. Tips for a Successful Family Photo Shoot
8. Where can I get my family photos taken?
29 Outfit ideas
A well-coordinated family photo outfit can be a beautiful thing. Here are some ideas;
Spring and Summer Photoshoots
Mom: Flowy maxi dress in pastel colors or a floral print skirt paired with a light blouse.
Dad: Linen shirt in a light color with chino pants or shorts.
Teen Girl: Sundress or a casual top with denim shorts.
Teen Boy: Short-sleeve button-up shirt with khaki shorts.
Young Girl: Brightly colored tunic with leggings or a cute, summery dress.
Young Boy: Polo shirt with light-colored shorts.
Toddler/Baby: Romper or a cute onesie in cheerful colors or soft pastels.
Autumn Photoshoots
Mom: Knitted sweater with jeans or a long-sleeve dress in earthy tones.
Dad: Flannel shirt layered over a tee, paired with dark jeans.
Teen Girl: Sweater dress with tights or a cozy cardigan over a top with jeans.
Teen Boy: Henley shirt with denim or corduroy pants.
Young Girl: Long sleeve top with a corduroy skirt and tights.
Young Boy: Sweater or a vest over a button-up shirt, with jeans or corduroy pants.
Toddler/Baby: Cute knitwear or a warm onesie with autumn-themed prints.
Formal Occasions
Mom: Elegant dress or a sophisticated skirt and blouse combo.
Dad: Suit or dress shirt with trousers and a blazer.
Teen Girl: Formal dress or a chic blouse with a skirt.
Teen Boy: Dress shirt with trousers and a tie or a suit for a more formal look.
Young Girl: Pretty dress with a bow or a formal top with a skirt.
Young Boy: Button-up shirt with dress pants or a suit for formal portraits.
Toddler/Baby: Formal dress for girls or a mini suit or shirt-pant combo for boys.
Casual Occasions
Mom: Casual jeans and a stylish top or a simple sundress.
Dad: Casual shirt with jeans or chinos.
Teen Girl: Graphic tee with jeans or a casual summer dress.
Teen Boy: Casual t-shirt with jeans or cargo shorts.
Young Girl: Tunic top with leggings or a simple dress.
Young Boy: T-shirt or polo with shorts or casual pants.
Toddler/Baby: Comfortable playwear sets or a casual romper.
Accessories
All: Hats, scarves, or statement jewelry that complements the chosen color palette and adds a personal touch to the outfits.
Which colors and patterns should I wear for a family photo shoot?
Achieving a visually appealing family picture often starts with color coordination. The key is to select colors that complement each other without being overly matchy-matchy.
A good strategy is to choose a color palette of two or three colors and mix these across different outfits. Neutral tones like beige, gray, and navy provide a timeless feel, while pastels can add a soft, harmonious touch. For a more vibrant photo, consider coordinating bright, solid colors.
Patterns can be a delightful addition, but they require careful thought. The general rule of thumb is to avoid overly bold patterns that can distract the viewer's eye. Small, subtle patterns, like fine stripes or florals, can add depth without overpowering. If one family member wears a pattern, balance it by dressing the others in solid colors pulled from that pattern.
Which type of clothing should I wear for my family portrait?
The location and season of your photoshoot play a critical role in outfit selection. For beach settings, light fabrics and colors can complement the natural backdrop, think linen dresses, khaki pants, and flowy tops. In contrast, urban environments lend themselves to more structured outfits with bolder colors or chic monochromatic looks.
Seasonality should not be overlooked. Spring photos might call for lighter fabrics and pastel colors, while summer might see more vibrant hues and short sleeves. Autumn family photos often feature rich, warm colors like mustard yellow, burgundy, and forest green, and cozy textures like knits and flannels. For winter, layering is key. Think cozy sweaters, scarves, and hats in complementary colors.
Should we follow a certain theme or color scheme?
Adding a theme or consistent color scheme can take your family photos to the next level. For a casual, relaxed look, jeans paired with coordinated tops in your chosen color palette can work well. If you prefer something more formal, consider elegant dresses for the ladies and button-down shirts with slacks for the gentlemen.
For themed photos, like during the holidays, coordinating outfits around the theme can be fun and festive. For example, for Christmas photos, reds, greens, and golds can create a joyous and seasonal look.
When implementing a color scheme, ensure one color doesn’t dominate; balance is crucial. Accessories like hats, scarves, or statement jewelry can also be used to tie the looks together subtly.
Which accessories should I wear for my family photo shoot?
Accessories can be a game-changer in family photos, adding a pop of personality and flair. Consider simple accessories like a statement necklace, elegant watch, or a classic belt. For children, think about cute hairbands, bow ties, or suspenders.
However, it's essential to ensure that accessories complement the outfits without overwhelming them. Coordinate the accessories among family members by color or style to create a cohesive look, but avoid going overboard – sometimes less is more.
What are some outfit choices I should avoid?
While you want your family’s personality to shine, there are certain fashion pitfalls to avoid in family pictures.
Steer clear of overly trendy items; they can date your photos quickly. Clothes with large logos or texts can be distracting and take the focus away from your family. Similarly, loud and bold patterns can clash and overpower the image.
Instead, opt for classic and timeless pieces. If you love patterns, choose subtle ones, and balance them with solid colors within your chosen color scheme.
Tips for a Successful Family Photo Shoot
As your photo shoot approaches, there are a few final tips to ensure everything goes smoothly.
Make sure all outfits are clean, ironed, and laid out the night before to avoid last-minute rushes.
While coordinating hair and makeup styles can enhance the photo, remember that Dena, will be there to assist with styling to ensure everyone looks their best.
Finally, remember that the outfits should reflect your family’s unique style and personality. These photos are a celebration of your family, so let your individuality shine through!
Where can I get my family photos taken?
For those looking to get their family photos taken by a qualified professional, I invite you to experience the dedication and expertise at Matt Roberts Photography.
I understand the value of family moments and am committed to preserving them in the most beautiful, authentic way. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, I personally craft each session to reflect the unique spirit of your family.
From selecting the perfect location to guiding you in outfit choices, I handle every aspect with care and professionalism. Whether you're looking for a formal portrait, a fun and casual session, or anything in between, I promise a relaxed, enjoyable experience with stunning results.
Capture the love, laughter, and everything that makes your family special. Book your session today and let me help you create memories that will last a lifetime.
Book your family photography in San Antonio, TX →
About Matt Roberts
Matt Roberts is a seasoned professional headshot and luxury brand family portrait photographer, with over ten years of dedicated experience. He has carved a niche in helping purpose-driven entrepreneurs, business professionals, and corporate executives craft their personal brands and amplify their influence. His dedication and skill make him the go-to photographer in San Antonio, Texas, for anyone seeking to make a significant impact with their professional online presence, as well as for those desiring exquisite family portraits that capture the essence of luxury and legacy.
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