It’s on everyone’s mind when they book a photo shoot: what should we wear? And it’s not always as simple as picking something that you look good in, especially when you’re not the only person in the photo. The first thing I always tell families is to make sure you look like a cohesive unit. Your outfits don’t need to match exactly, but it should look like you are all meant to complement each other and your environment.

As you can probably imagine, there are lots of factors to consider when creating a cohesive “look” for your family photos, so I’ve put together some tips and suggestions on how to coordinate your family for your session below. I also have a Pinterest board with some sample photos that may be help

#1 Choose a Colour Palette

While you don’t all need to be completely matchy-matchy (in fact, I don’t really recommend identical/matching outfits at all – unless you’re twins and that’s your thing), it’s a fabulous idea to choose a colour palette that every person in the photo can stick to. I love this particular choice of neutral pastels – beige, white, mauve, pink and gold.  Everyone has their own style within the photo, but the complementary colours add a real cohesiveness to the image.  They look like they belong together, even though they don’t match exactly.

#2 Think of your setting

It’s always a good idea to visualize the location of your shoot, and try to have your outfits match the location somewhat.  For example, this photo was taken on a fall day, with lots of leaves and autumn colours. The family is cozy in layered jackets, sweaters, boots and complemetary patterns, which works really well. If you are shooting at the beach on a sunny summery day, think about wearing light, breezy clothes in beachy colours (rather than structured suits or skirts in autumn shades).

#3 Think about the mood/theme of your photos

This tip is similar to the above tip regarding the location, but I think it should also be mentioned.  Give some thought to what you want the finished product of your photos to look like.  Do you want them to be fun? romantic? vibrant? formal? moody? old-fashioned? goofy? Once you know what you want the finished product to look like, try to plan your attire around that mood or theme. In this particular photo, we’re at a dreamy location, just before sunset and the mother & daughter are in flowing light-coloured dresses that really complement the dream-like quality of the location and setting.

#4 Avoid logos and/or busy, distracting patterns

A few different complementary colours and textures are always great in a photo because they add interest and personality, but it’s a great idea to make sure those patterns/textures/colours don’t clash with each other. In the above photo, the wide stripes, ruffles, lace and jean all work really well together because some solid colours have been added in for variety. If you can, lay all the outfits out together before the shoot, just to make sure you don’t have paisley next to a giant floral pattern next to polka dots. If there are too many busy patterns going on in the photo, it takes away from the real subjects – you! Same goes for logos – no one wants to be advertising for Old Navy in their family photos!

#5 Don’t be afraid of white!

Contrary to popular belief, white can be totally fine in photographs!  I’ve seen a few photographer’s websites that recommend against wearing white, but I think it can add a real freshness to photos.  Don’t be afraid of wearing white. If it works with your colour palette, location and theme, go for it!

#6 Think top to bottom

When planning your photo shoot outfits, remember to plan from your head right down to your toes! Everything from shoes to hair clips/bows, watches and jewelry should all match the colour palette, location and theme of the images. Nothing ruins a lovely photo like beautifully matched outfits with ratty old bright red sneakers on your toddler!

Most importantly – have fun when planning your photo shoot outfits! If you make sure your clothes really accentuate who you are, you can’t go wrong. And I’m always available to answer questions, and help coordinate. Feel free to send me photos or ideas by text or email before your session!

Eran Sudds is a Tsawwassen photographer who specializes in fun & natural sessions for you and your entire family. She is also available for maternity, newborn and headshot sessions in South Delta, and anywhere in the Lower Mainland. Contact her to book your session!