If you have family sessions, engagement photos, or Christmas cards coming then listen up! You’ve probably started thinking about what you and your family are going to wear. You want to match, but you don’t want to be too “matchy.”

The goal is to have complimenting outfits without looking like you have matching uniforms for a department store.

How To Dress for Family Portraits

Trying to decide what you, your spouse, and your kids are going to wear for the pictures can be very stressful. Don’t worry, it doesn’t have to be as difficult as you might think.

Pick a Favorite Outfit

One thing thatI always suggest to families when they ask what they should wear is to pick a favorite outfit. I always tell the ladies (especially the mommas!) to pick her outfit first.

Pick something that flatters your figure and that you feel great wearing that you think would go well with the location we have decided on.

Once you’ve picked a favorite outfit of yours or one of your family member’s, then you can use that as your starting point.

Look in the Back of Closets

Now that you’ve picked out your starting outfit, you can start matching everyone else. This is the point that you need to dig into the back of your closets and find those sweaters and jackets that you had forgotten about or even use this as an opportunity to run to TJ Maxx for a new piece.

Don’t get Stuck on One Color

This is one of the most important tips to realize. Not everyone has to wear the same color! Some people can be wearing reds, while others are wearing greys.

A lot of people will tend to focus on one color and try and find slight variations or match that color.

There is nothing wrong with two people wearing the same color, but varying with some neutrals like grey, tan, or even blue jeans breaks up the color and honestly looks better than everyone in the same color or color family.

Lay it All Out Before the Family Session

Now that you’ve picked out the clothes lay all of them out beside each other or make your family try them on. Make sure that they go together and that there aren’t conflicting patterns or colors.

Make any changes or decide if you still like them! Always, always feel free to text me a picture to get my feedback! I love helping decide if outfits are a great choice!

When it Doubt, Accessorize!

Bring a statement necklace, scarf, or jacket that you can use to add some variety. You could wear accessories in some photos and take them off in others.

I hope this helps you prepare for your session! If you have any questions, I am more than happy to help!