← Back to Style GuideFamily Portraits

What to Wear for
Family Portraits

Getting the whole family looking great together is an art. David & Jane have photographed thousands of families — here's exactly what works and what to avoid.

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David's Golden Rules for Family Outfits

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Coordinate, Don't Match

Pick a 3-color palette and assign one color per person. Matching head-to-toe looks dated on camera.

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Avoid Busy Patterns

Small checks, thin stripes, and logos can create a moiré effect on camera. Stick to solids or large, simple prints.

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Shoes Matter More Than You Think

Clean, simple footwear pulls the look together. Avoid neon colors or worn-out sneakers.

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Layer for Depth

A cardigan, denim jacket, or scarf adds visual interest and gives you outfit variety in the gallery.

Palette Ideas That Photograph Beautifully

Warm Neutrals

Cream, sand, caramel, warm white — always timeless

Earth & Nature

Olive, rust, sage, terracotta — perfect for fall/outdoor

Cool & Airy

Soft blues, chambray, sky — fresh and clean

Navy & White

Classic, sharp, and works in any season

Our Top Outfit Picks

Neutral Linen Family SetMost Popular

Neutral Linen Family Set

$25–$75 per piece

Cream and warm beige tones photograph beautifully in any setting — studio, outdoor, or in-home.

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Earth Tone Coordinating SetFall Sessions

Earth Tone Coordinating Set

$30–$80 per piece

Rust, olive, and sage tones are perfect for fall family sessions — warm, rich, and photogenic.

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Classic White & Denim

Classic White & Denim

$20–$60 per piece

A timeless combination that always works. Clean, bright, and great for both studio and outdoor sessions.

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Soft Blue Coordinating Outfits

Soft Blue Coordinating Outfits

$25–$70 per piece

Navy, sky blue, and chambray tones coordinate beautifully without being too matchy.

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Girls' Floral Dress

Girls' Floral Dress

$18–$40

A soft floral print ties the whole family together without everyone wearing the exact same thing.

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Boys' Classic Chino Set

Boys' Classic Chino Set

$20–$45

Khaki, navy, or grey chinos with a simple button-up — clean, classic, and always age-appropriate.

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Mom's Wrap Midi DressDavid's Pick

Mom's Wrap Midi Dress

$35–$75

Universally flattering and available in dozens of colors. Easy to match with the family's palette.

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Dad's Neutral Button-Up

Dad's Neutral Button-Up

$25–$55

A soft linen or chambray button-up is the most versatile choice for dads — always looks put-together.

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Matching PJ Set (Holiday Sessions)Holiday Favourite

Matching PJ Set (Holiday Sessions)

$30–$65 per set

For holiday and in-home sessions, matching PJs are always a hit — cozy, fun, and universally loved.

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Boho Fringe Cardigan

Boho Fringe Cardigan

$30–$60

Adds texture and dimension to layered family looks. Works well in fall and outdoor settings.

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Prices are approximate and may vary by retailer. Some links are affiliate links.

Ready to Book Your Family Session?

Tell us your outfit plan when you book and we'll choose backdrops and locations that complement your palette perfectly.