The Game Changing Recipe For Perfect Family Photo Outfits

The number one question I get asked in preparation for a family photo session is what to wear for family photos. I get it! Without guidance, family photo outfits can be a struggle to figure out on your own. That said, you’re in luck — I think I just cracked the code when it comes to family photo outfits. 

I'm a big believer in the “teach a man how to fish” philosophy, so I’m NOT just going to hand over the fish. You see, I could simply tell you to research inspo on Pinterest, see what else is out there, and copy and paste another family's color scheme… but I won’t. Over the years I’ve learned that the value of learning a simple & effective formula that works for families of all sizes, ages, and styles is more effective in helping you look and feel your best during your family photo session.

So, rather than show you a bunch of past clients and why their family photo outfits worked so well for them, I'm going to teach you how to properly build an outfit grouping that'll work for you and your beautiful family instead.

Let's take the Jefferson family, and mom, Alysia (far right), for example.

Yeah, I know — good lookin' bunch, right?

Well, aside from their genetics, there's a very logical reason that their family photos turned out so wonderfully last fall.

It's called color theory, and whether or not they intended to, the Jefferson crew just became the prime example of my latest take on creating a family photo outfit spread that works every. single. time.

PRIMARY COLOR + COMPLEMENTARY COLOR + NEUTRAL + LIFT

Step 1:

Choose the primary outfit — usually mom. I give you full permission to be selfish! Pick what makes you feel confident and comfortable from all angles. Focusing on one outfit rather than the entire family together is far less overwhelming and sets the foundation for the color palette. I highly recommend a mid-to-long dress in a flowy fabric and a medium-to-long sleeve length. 

Step 2:

Based on mom's choice of outfit, pick a complementary color. Use the color wheel if you need to, and avoid choosing a color too similar to the primary outfit. For example, mauve (pink) and olive (green) are opposite one another on the color wheel, making them complementary colors. Next, pick a neutral (khaki, tan, warm gray, or black). This can be used to add in basics, like pants or tops, to balance out the colors. The neutral can be blue denim IF the primary or complementary color is blue. Lastly, the “lift” should be a bright color to lift the collective palette. I highly recommend off-white/cream instead of bright white.

Note: In the Jefferson's example, navy blue is technically not exactly opposite from dark red on the color wheel. That's okay! It's not about the exact science — just be sure that the secondary color choice is not right next to the primary. Orange and red, for example, wouldn't be as effective.

Step 3:

With your beautiful color palette as your guide, try to have every family member wear a different fabric, texture, and/or layer for maximum variety. The goal is to complement one another, not to match exactly. Some family members will wear just the primary color, just the complementary color, just the neutral, or just the lift. Some may wear a combination of the colors!

Now that you have the family photo outfits recipe, here are a few other tips I would recommend keeping in mind:

The key to incorporating patterns is by adding the pattern first, and pulling colors from it to choose the complementary color.  Or, if the pattern is monochromatic, aim for subtle patterns featuring small shapes, rather than big, bold patterns. Think: small stripes instead of large ones, and small plaid instead of large plaid.

If you're shooting outside, stick with earth tones. For example, choose dusty rose over bubble-gum pink.

No logos! I repeat, no logos.

Be prepared to walk, sit, and move. Choosing an outfit that you only like when you're standing tall, from the front, while you're holding your breath is not realistic. When in doubt, do the ‘camera test’ by trying on your outfit, pressing record, and checking how it looks from all angles. Trust that your photographer will add her magic, but still — the camera test is a quick way to test if you like how the outfit looks from all angles.

When you have most of the pieces, it's incredibly helpful to lay them out on an open space in the house, like a couch or bedroom floor. This is going to really help you visualize whether or not the pieces are cohesive.

Most importantly, try your very best to allow yourself a bit of time before your session to put the looks together. 4-6 weeks before the session is an ideal timeline to get started. No one wants to be stress-shopping last-minute (on Amazon Prime, no less)!

And now you know the secret recipe to putting together beautiful family photo outfits! If you'd like me to take your family photos this year, apply here! As a JRP family photo client, you’ll receive a 30-page outfit guide with examples and done-for-you outfit selection guidance. I am currently booking the 2023 family sessions and would love to add your crew to the roster. 
 

Availability is limited. Senior sessions can also be combined with family photos — ask me how!