Looking for winning family photoshoot clothing ideas? Start with a unified color scheme—think earthy tones for fall, pastels for spring, or classic neutrals for elegance. Mix textures and layers for depth, avoid clashing prints, and ensure everyone feels comfortable. From beachy casual to holiday-formal, the right outfits turn good photos into cherished keepsakes!
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A family tradition I deeply believe in is the family photoshoot. I cherish taking pictures of my whole family in fun or weird costumes, and I believe all families should do this. I have many family photoshoot clothing ideas I can share so every family can have a fun time.
From creating a cohesive look to showing harmony or even ensuring no color clashing happens, I have you covered. There are many styles parents and families can choose from. But you need to plan ahead to ensure that your photoshoot looks perfect, and that’s where I will come in. This article will take you step by step to make your family photoshoot look absolutely fabulous from start to finish.
Why Outfit Coordination Matters for Family Photos
Family photos are meant to show off your whole family in fun and exciting ways, which is why the outfits you wear need to be coordinated. Here are some reasons why outfit coordination during family photos is important:
Creates a Cohesive Look
Once you have coordinated your outfits, your family photos will look more polished and cohesive. This is a core part of figuring out good family photoshoot clothing ideas. Coordinating looks will help bring your family even closer in the photos. This means that your family photos will be photos of a family rather than a bunch of people in one picture wearing different clothes.
For example, I have a photo of all my family members wearing different shades of blue at the beach for one photoshoot. Imagine how good that photo looks compared to another taken at the same beach, with all of us wearing something different.
Enhances Visual Harmony
Connected to the previous point, when the whole family is wearing similar or cohesive outfits, the pictures look more visually harmonious. The similar patterns, colors, and shades ensure that your family photoshoot has more balance in its final looks. This balance will also help to make your family’s faces and expressions pop more. I recommend that you try to manage your family’s final look with only two or three main colors. This will help to limit your options but still allow for amazing choices.
Avoids Clashing Colors & Patterns
Like with my beach example, outfit coordination ensures that everyone in the family wears something that’s similar or looks similar; this ensures zero chances of color or outfit clashing. In fact, the coordination will ensure that the whole family looks more in sync than ever before.
Shows Your Family’s Personality
The whole point of these family photoshoot clothing ideas is to help you show off what your family is all about. Therefore, you need to coordinate your family’s looks through these photos to tell what your family is all about. The clothes you pick will tell everyone whether you’re a classy, elegant, fun, or quirky family.
How to Choose a Color Scheme for Family Photos
I have talked a lot about the benefits of outfit coordination and that you should work with only two or three colors, but how do you actually do it? Here are some family photoshoot clothing ideas based on colors.
Neutral & Timeless Color Palettes
Families looking to make their family photos not too crazy can always go with neutral color palettes. These timeless colors allow families to pull off some really good and elegant looks quite effortlessly. Here are some examples for you to consider:
- Cream, Beige, and White are ideal if you are taking the photos in a light-filled studio or at the beach.
- Gray and Soft Blue: A more modern choice of neutral palettes that works in all seasons.
- Taupe and Blush: A great choice for those romantic (newlyweds) or maternity family photoshoots.
Bold & Vibrant Color Combinations
Now, families looking to make a splash with their family photoshoots can go for bolder and vibrant colors. These choices will ensure your family photos become the talk of the dinner table. Here are some choices:
- Jewel Tones: If you want a bold yet luxurious look, choose emerald, sapphire, or amethyst.
- Primary Colors: If you want to take your family back to the 1980s, go with primaries like navy, cherry red, and golden yellow.
- Earth Tones: Be one with the Earth by picking terracotta, olive, and mustard.
Regardless of what bold colors you pick, remember to have some balance; otherwise, you will lose any sense of cohesion.
Seasonal Color Inspirations (Spring, Fall, Winter, Summer)
If you struggle picking colors but still want that cohesion, go with a seasonal look. Each season, with its color inspiration, will help you create some looks that will stay with you forever. Here are some color ideas:
- Summer:
- Nautical navy and white stripes
- Tropical coral and turquoise
- Sun-faded denim with yellow accents
- Winter:
- Classic red and green for holiday cards
- Icy silver and blue for a frosty aesthetic
- Deep emerald and gold for luxurious portraits
- Fall:
- Warm pumpkin, burgundy and goldenrod
- Plaid flannel shirts with dark denim
- Rich chocolate brown paired with cream
- Spring:
- Pastel Easter egg colors
- Fresh greens and sky blues
- Floral patterns balanced with solids
Matching vs. Complementary Colors
Some families might not like wearing the same outfit for their photoshoot, but that’s okay. Nowadays, professional photographers recommend a different approach instead of wearing the same outfit. Instead of matching the outfit, professionals ask families to match a color palette or shade for cohesion. Rather than picking one color, families can mix and match two or three colors for a bold look. I recommend the accent look where you have one base neutral color and a pop of bold color repeated throughout with accessories.
Best Clothing Styles for Family Photoshoots
With colors settled, it’s time I went over family photoshoot clothing ideas. As I said earlier, there are many choices available for family photoshoot clothing, but not all of them are ideal for every family. That’s why I will go over some styles, and one of them should match a family’s preference.
Casual & Comfortable Outfits
First, we have a casual style that ensures everyone is comfortable. Suppose you are going with the classic apple orchard or backyard portrait. In that case, the casual style will work best for your family. For example,
- Flowy sundresses in breathable fabrics
- Well-fitted jeans without excessive distressing
- Comfortable layers like cardigans or light jackets
- Closed-toe shoes or stylish sandals (no flip-flops)
Formal & Elegant Attire
Opposite the casual style is the formal and elegant style, which is meant to create timeless family photos. For this style, I recommend that the women wear maxi dresses in solid colors while the men wear dress shirts with sweaters or blazers. Children can wear collar shirts or dresses with tights. Everyone should wear formal shoes or heels and avoid short skirts and low-cut tops.
Themed Photoshoot Outfits (Holiday, Beach, Vintage, etc.)
Depending on the theme your family has picked, your outfits will vary quite a bit. I will go over two common themes: holidays and the beach. You must think of something more casual and comfortable for a family photoshoot clothing idea at the beach. Going with light and breezy clothing that moves with the wind is ideal. Also, going either barefoot or sandless is preferred. Accessory-wise, I recommend sunhats and big sunglasses.
Now, for holiday family photoshoot clothing ideas, all I can say is go with what works. For Christmas or New Year, families typically go with pajamas or sweaters in holiday colors. You can wear something formal, but that might just dampen the holiday spirit.
Mixing Textures & Layers for Depth
Regardless of what idea you choose, try to dig deep because this is all about the family. Figure out what you want others to see about your family and express it fully. By mixing textures and layers, you will have more opportunities to show depth that you might not have been able to do with just colors and outfit choices.
Outfit Ideas Based on Family Size
If you are having trouble with family photoshoot clothing ideas, here are two for different-sized families.
Small Family (2-4 Members) Outfit Ideas
Going with a more colorful and playful family photo shoot, all the members will wear primary-colored outfits. Mom can wear a wrap dress in navy color with some red earrings as accessories. The dad might wear a simple white button-down dress shirt with basic navy chino pants. Children should wear a red dress or shirt with a navy skirt or pants to match their parents. If there is a baby, have them wear a cute navy onesie with suspenders.
Large Family (5+ Members) Coordination Tips
Bigger family photoshoots are harder to coordinate, so I will mainly discuss the theme and the color choices. You can pick the kind of outfits the family will wear. For this example, I will discuss a summer beach family photoshoot idea.
All the women should wear sundresses in various shades of blue, while men should wear linen shirts and navy shorts. Kids can wear denim jackets with white tees and shorts or skirts. Everyone should go barefoot for a more authentic look.
Seasonal Family Photoshoot Outfit Inspiration
Depending on the season at the time, family photoshoot clothing ideas will be quite different. I have some suggestions for each of the four seasons to help with these ideas.
Spring – Pastels & Light Fabrics
During springtime, a family photoshoot should be fresh with an airy look. All the clothing should be lightweight and have soft, romantic colors. If you are looking for a coordinated look, here is what I have in mind:
- Moms & Daughters: They should wear floral sundresses with soft and delicate laces.
- Dads & Sons: The men in the family should be wearing light-wash jeans with button-downs or polo shirts.
- Accessories: Stick with simple straw hats, floral hair clips, and neutral sandals.
Summer – Bright Colors & Breathable Materials
Summertime means the sun and having fun with the family; the photos should show that. Bold colors and breathable clothing are what families should wear. Also, comfort is a must for the photoshoot because it will get out there. Here is my suggestion depending on the location:
- Beach Sessions: Flowy maxi dresses, linen shirts, and barefoot-friendly looks
- Backyard or Park Shoots: Denim shorts with bright tees, sundresses, and sun hats
- Accessories: Sunglasses, woven tote bags, or flip-flops for a relaxed feel
Fall – Warm Tones & Layered Looks
Fall is the best time for a family to take those cozy-looking photos wearing warm tones and layers. Families should wear their best layers for their pictures as the weather worsens. Here are some suggestions:
- Women & Girls: Sweater dresses, oversized cardigans, and ankle boots
- Men & Boys: Flannel shirts, chunky knit sweaters, and dark denim
- Accessories: Blanket scarves, felt hats, or leather boots for a rustic touch
Winter – Cozy Knits & Rich Hues
When the snow starts falling, families can take the time to take those magical photos they have always wanted. Winter wonderland-style photos are always a hit; jewel tones or neutral colors are the best choices for them. So here are some clothing ideas for winter family photoshoots:
- Holiday Cards: Matching pajamas, velvet dresses, or Fair Isle sweaters
- Snowy Outdoor Shots: Chunky knit scarves, wool coats, and leather gloves
- Studio Sessions: Sequins, metallic accents, or tailored suits for a formal touch
Where to Buy Matching Family Outfits
Having some family photo shoot clothing ideas is all well and good, but where do you find such clothing? Some families that have taken such pictures might have such clothing, but families that are just starting the tradition surely won’t. But have no worries because I have some ideas on where you can buy matching family outfits.
Best Online Stores for Coordinated Family Wear
Online shopping has come a long way from the early days of Facebook marketplace or Amazon. Now, online stores offer more choices and better prices than ever before. Here are some great ones I have found:
1. Hanna Andersson
Hana Anderson is well-known for its collection of high-quality organic cotton kids’ clothing. It offers a variety of choices, from pajama sets to casual wear, ideal for photoshoots. It also delivers to a wide range of locations in record time. Its designs are timeless, and the seasonal collection makes it easy for families to find the right clothes for their children.
2. Janie and Jack
If families prefer a more formal look during their photoshoot, Janie and Jack are a good choice. Their collection of kids’ clothing covers all occasions, so finding one for a family photo will be easy. They also have the “Family Moment” collection, which has matching clothing for both genders, so bigger families will find it ideal.
3. Boden
This British brand offers many colorful and playful clothing options that work well for family photoshoots. They have some amazing choices that parents can look through if they want to create a mix-and-match look for the photos.
Budget-Friendly Options for Large Families
Not all families can afford to buy brand-new clothing from well-known brands that are price family photoshoots. Here are my suggestions for some affordable brands that can help make the event memorable.
1. Old Navy
Old Navy is a very good choice for clothing parents can look at while trying to create a coordinated family look. It offers great prices for outfits that look quite polished and more expensive than they are.
2. Target
Target’s Cat & Jack line and Universal Thread collections are two that I would recommend even for families that aren’t looking to get family photos. Their other collections are amazing, such as family photoshoot clothing ideas. Check out Target’s seasonal clothing for inspiration, especially in summer and spring.
3. H&M
An all-around brand for clothing that offers great prices and designs. Their neutral-toned basics and occasional matching sets build a unified family aesthetic. They also occasionally bring out some fantastic designs, so keep an eye on the brand cause you never know.
Dos and Don’ts of Family Photoshoot Outfits
Now that I have discussed some family photoshoot clothing ideas, it’s time to discuss what you should or shouldn’t be doing.
Do – Stick to a Unified Theme
When planning a family photoshoot, sticking to a unified theme is highly suggested. The theme can cover the color, outfit choices, or both, and that will help you limit your choices and the time needed. Without a theme, you will have a harder time coordinating everything, thus wasting a lot of time and making the photoshoot seem less appealing to everyone.
If the theme feels too restrictive, I suggest playing around with layers to give your looks a more personal touch.
Do – Consider the Photoshoot Location
Depending on your family photoshoot clothing ideas, you will have to consider your background differently. Not all backgrounds will work with various outfits, so pick one that makes sense, and your family likes. For example, you shouldn’t shoot a Christmas family photo in the desert or on a beach because that’s stupid. So, think about your background choices and pick one that complements and does not contrast your outfits.
Don’t – Wear Loud Logos or Distracting Patterns
Family photos are about the family and not the clothing brands you wear. You shouldn’t wear clothing with visible logos or patterns. These things will only distract you and make the whole thing seem less cohesive. Go with clothing where the logos can’t be seen from the front and have more subtle patterns.
Don’t – Overlook Comfort & Movement
It doesn’t matter what outfits you choose; if they are uncomfortable, you will be, too, when taking the pictures. Family photos do take some time to take, so consider what you will be wearing. It needs to be comfortable and allow for easier movement.
Frequently Asked Question (FAQ)
How many colors should we use in our family’s outfits?
Limit your palette to 2-3 primary colors with various shades for the most cohesive results. This creates visual harmony while allowing individuality. For example, choose navy as your base, then incorporate light blue and white.
Should we avoid all patterns in family photos?
Patterns can work beautifully when used strategically. The key is balance – have one person wear a subtle pattern (like small florals or thin stripes) while others wear coordinating solids. Avoid large, bold patterns that dominate the frame.
What shoes work best for family portraits?
Closed-toe shoes in neutral tones (tan, brown, gray, or black) photograph most elegantly. Ballet flats or low wedges work well for women, while loafers or dress shoes are best for men.
How can we include our toddler’s favorite bright outfit?
Incorporate it as an accent rather than the focus. If they love a red dress, have others wear neutral tones with red accessories (ties, scarves, or hair bows). Alternatively, use it for a few fun shots at the end.
Conclusion
As you brainstorm family photoshoot clothing ideas, parents must coordinate a theme or color palette to ensure the whole family looks great. Parents should consider the season, a theme, or a mixture of colors. Whatever the choice is, the whole family should agree with it and ensure it’s comfortable to wear. There are many brands out there, from pricy, such as Boden, to affordable, like Target, that have outfits perfect for every family. Find something that catches all your family’s eye and shoot some memorable pictures that will last lifetimes.
