You booked the session. You’re excited. You can already imagine that sweet photo hanging on your wall…
And then it hits: “WHAT ARE WE GOING TO WEAR?”
Deep breaths, friend! I’m here to help you navigate the wardrobe wonderland with a few simple tips to keep your family comfy, coordinated, and looking amazing - without turning your living room into a laundry tornado.
If you have invested in custom lifestyle photography, you are probably already dreaming about your session. I call it an investment because it truly is. You are investing your money, your time, and the fleeting season of life you are in right now. It makes sense that you want everything to feel just right. One of the most enjoyable parts of getting ready is choosing what to wear. And this is your chance to show your personality and lean into the story you want your photos to tell. I know outfits can feel overwhelming, but you really don’t have to stress. While I don’t fully style my families, I am always happy to help and guide you if you need support. Here are a few simple tips to help you choose outfits you will love.
Be Yourself
The biggest thing to remember is to be yourself. Lifestyle photography works best when everyone feels comfortable and true to who they are. If you never reach for dressy clothes, you don’t need to for your session. If your daughter loves her cozy favorites, let her wear something she feels confident in. If your son avoids button downs, choose something softer and more relaxed. And if your family leans sporty or casual, embrace it. There are so many ways to look polished and put together while still honoring your everyday style. Looking your best doesn’t mean changing who you are. It simply means showing up as your real, beautiful selves.
Start with Mom
I always recommend starting with Mom's outfit first. Pick something you feel confident and comfortable in - maybe it's that flow dress you love or your favorite sweater and jeans combo. Build the rest of the family's outfits around yours. Because if Mom feels good, everyone feels good!
Coordinating > Matching
Gone are the days of everyone in identical jeans and white shirts (no shade to the early 2000s). Instead, aim for coordinating colors and textures. Think complementary shades rather than uniforms. Soft neutrals, warm earth tones, muted blues, sage greens, dusty pinks - these all photograph beautifully together. A mix of solids, subtle patterns, and textures can add depth without being distracting. Layers add visual interest and give you options. A denim jacket, cardigan, suspenders, or even a cute hat (that your toddler might keep on for two minutes) can make a big difference. Just make sure nothing is too bulky or hides those sweet little faces.
No Logos or Neons
Graphic tees with big logos or bright neon athletic wear are best saved for soccer practice. For photos, choose pieces that feel timeless and free of distractions. The focus should be on your faces and the way you connect, not on a brand name or a pattern that takes over the image. Neon colors can even reflect onto the skin, which means your child’s face may look bright orange or yellow in the final photos. Graphic designs also tend to go out of style quickly. Keeping outfits simple and classic will help your photos stay beautiful for years to come.
Comfort is Key
A cute outfit is wonderful, but not if your three year old is melting down because the tags are scratchy or the waistband feels too tight. Choose clothing that feels good, moves easily, and lets your kids be themselves. Children look their sweetest when they are comfortable, whether they are twirling, snuggling, or running after butterflies. It also helps to make sure everything fits well. Clothing that is too big, too small, constantly slipping down, or needing to be rolled can be distracting and uncomfortable. The best photos happen when little ones can forget about their clothes and simply enjoy the moment.
Don't forget the shoes!
Shoes show up in far more photos than most people expect, especially when we are walking, playing, or snuggling together. Barefoot can be lovely for in-home or beach sessions, but if you are wearing shoes, choose pairs that are clean, coordinated, and make sense for the location. Flip flops in a muddy field are usually not the best match.
For moms who enjoy wearing heels, you can definitely wear them. A block heel or something with a sturdy base works best in fields and grassy areas so you can move comfortably without sinking into the ground.
And a little note about sneakers. Some pairs can look casual in a way that takes away from the timeless look most families want. If sneakers are your go to, choose simple, neutral ones that feel polished rather than bulky or ultra sporty. The main goal is to keep the focus on your connection and not on a pair of bright running shoes.
Try it all on!
Trust me - doing a quick “dress rehearsal” a few days before can save your sanity. Make sure everything fits, is clean, and everyone is happy with their outfit. Last-minute laundry at midnight? We’ve all been there… but we don’t have to go back.
At the end of the day, what you wear should help you feel confident, comfortable, and connected to the people you love most. Your clothing is simply the backdrop to the story we are capturing together. Choose pieces that feel like you, honor the season your family is in, and allow you to relax and enjoy the experience. When you show up as your true selves, the moments we create will feel effortless, honest, and beautiful for years to come.
