What to Wear for Family Photos: A Simple Guide
By Tanner Stutz · · 4 min read
The short answer
For family photos, choose two or three colours that work together and dress everyone in different pieces within them, rather than matching outfits. Stick to solid colours and soft patterns, avoid big logos and neon, add texture with knits and layers, and dress for the season and the location.
Coordinate, don't match
Matching white shirts and jeans was the rule for years and it flattens everyone into one shape. Picking a small palette and letting each person wear something different inside it looks natural and still belongs together.
An easy way to start: choose one outfit you love, usually for the person who is hardest to dress, and build everyone else around its colours.
Colours that photograph well
- Soft neutrals: cream, oatmeal, tan, grey, denim.
- Muted colour: sage, dusty blue, rust, mustard, burgundy.
- Avoid neon and very saturated brights, which cast colour onto skin.
- Avoid big logos, slogans and characters, which pull the eye.
- Small patterns are fine in moderation; keep it to one or two people.
Texture and layers
Knits, linen, corduroy and denim add depth that flat cotton doesn't. Layers — a cardigan, a jacket, a scarf — also give you two looks in one outfit.
Dress for the season (and Buffalo weather)
In fall, warm tones and sweaters suit the colour around you. In summer, lighter fabrics and softer colours. Western New York weather changes fast, so bring a layer even when the forecast says warm, and pick shoes you can walk a trail in. Comfortable people look more relaxed in photos.
Don't forget
- Iron or steam everything the day before.
- Bring a lint roller, especially with a dog in the photos.
- Kids: pack a backup outfit and a snack.
- Pets are welcome; bring the leash and some treats.
Questions
Should everyone wear the same colour in family photos?
No. Choose two or three colours that go together and let each person wear something different within them. Fully matching outfits tend to look stiff.
Can we bring our dog to family photos?
Yes. A pet can be added to any portrait session with Stutz Media.