Charming portrait of husband, wife, and their son in matching colored dresses, set against a light background - Dress for Family Photoshoot Guide

Dress for Family Photoshoot | What to Wear and How to Prepare

By Ruchika Jain

Are you getting ready for a family photo shoot or considering booking one? The big question is: What should your family wear? It can feel overwhelming to choose the perfect outfits for everyone, but fear not! The structured approach will help you confidently selecting the right clothing for your family portrait session.

What to Wear for a Family Photoshoot: Captivating Indian Family Portrait in Ruchika Jain Studio, Wellington, New Zealand.
Charming family portrait of all kids with a serene grey background - Dress for Family Photoshoot Guide
Adventurous family portrait standing in water on a beach - Dress for Family Photoshoot Guide

Cracking the Code of the Perfect Family Outfit

To start off, let’s explore some general do’s and don’ts when it comes to selecting outfits for your family portrait session.

Choosing Colors that Shine Together

Choose colors that complement each other and create a cohesive look. Consider using a color palette as a guide. By selecting colors from the same palette, you can create a harmonious and unified look in your portraits. Whether you prefer soft pastels, vibrant jewel tones, or earthy neutrals, a color palette will help you make intentional and thoughtful choices when it comes to clothing and accessories.

Laying Out Your Clothes for Picture-Perfect Results

Arrange everyone’s outfits together on a flat surface to see how they work as a whole. You can even take a photo and seek validation or guidance if needed.

Accessorize with Elegance: Enhancing Your Outfits with Flair

Add interest to your outfits with accessories like scarves, jewellery or layers. Layering different textures when choosing your outfits is a great way to really bring your outfits together and add more interest. Think linens, textured clothing, such as waffled materials or lace, chunky knits and anything that flows! Clothing that allows for some movement always photographs beautifully.

Avoid Distracting Prints and Logos

The main goal of family portraits is to capture the essence of your family, so it’s best to avoid clothing with writing or prominent prints that can divert attention away from the subjects. Choose simpler designs and solid colors that allow the focus to remain on your family’s expressions and interactions.

Mindful Coordination of Patterns

If multiple family members choose to wear patterns, be cautious of conflicting patterns that can create visual chaos. Aim for coordination rather than exact matching. Select patterns with similar colors or themes to maintain visual harmony and create a cohesive look.

Planning Ahead for Wrinkle-Free Outfits:

To ensure your outfits are wrinkle-free and camera-ready, plan ahead and lay them out the night before your session. This allows you to identify any garments that may need ironing or attention.

Give Yourself Ample Time for Outfit Selection

Start thinking about what you want to wear approximately a week before the session. Begin with your own outfit choice and use it as a starting point for coordinating the rest of the family’s attire. This gives you sufficient time to gather any necessary clothing items and make adjustments if needed.

Elegant family portrait in a studio with a serene light grey background - Dress for Family Photoshoot Guide

Timeless outdoor portrait of mother and daughter in light matching dresses - Dress for Family Photoshoot Guide

"Dinesh Jain embraces the outdoors, spreading his arms wide with a radiant smile - Dress for Family Photoshoot Guide.

Playful and Healthy husband and wife portrait, having fun together with a serene light grey background - Dress for Family Photoshoot Guide

Heartwarming family portrait from behind, gazing at the beauty of the ocean on the beach - Dress for Family Photoshoot Guide.
Stylish portrait of husband and wife in matching colored dresses, complemented by a matching background - Dress for Family Photoshoot Guide

Slogan / Branded and licensed clothing – We all know the children love these kinds of clothes and also sometimes the dads! If you want timeless photos to hang around your home, avoid the bold Logos, clothes with big patterns, slogans, branding etc as they would look distracting in the photos. But yes, you are very welcome to bring your children’s favourite toys, props or anything you would like to include in a few photos

Hair and Makeup – We do have options for Studio Hair and Makeup artist depending on availability. Its always good to get ready nicely for your session, so you look and feel your best. But there is no pressure at all to get professional hair and makeup done for your session. You can choose to do it yourself, or at your favourite Salon or let me know in advance, if you need me to book a Hair and Makeup artist for you at the studio just before your photoshoot.

Remember, The most important thing is for you to feel comfortable and confident in what you wear. Embrace your unique features, choose outfits that reflect your style and bring a Joyful Mood and Happy You.

Portrait of Ruchika Jain, wedding photographer in Wellington, New ZelandGet In touch