Planning a family photo session can be a little bit overwhelming. Finding outfits that look good together and actually fit and getting all of your little ones camera-ready can be a big challenge. As a mom and photographer, I see many families struggle to figure out what to wear to their family photo session. So today, I’m sharing my best tips on styling outfits for family photos and sharing some of my favorite shops!

Gather Outfit Inspiration

Looking on Pinterest is a great way to start your search for outfits. I share my Pinterest board with clients with some of my favorite ideas of outfits that photograph well and look great for the whole family! As you look through style inspiration, ask yourself:

• Which color combinations am I most drawn to?  
• What styles of clothing do I like best?
• Which locations pique my interest the most and provide the best setting for my style?

Once you can answer these questions, you’re off to a great start finding outfits for your family session! You can also Pin a few of your favorite outfits to keep your style ideas in one place.

Use a Design Service to Coordinate Outfits

I also recommend using a styling service like Style and Select to start piecing together outfits from the comfort of your home. I give my clients access to this website for free! You just need to fill out a brief questionnaire about your style, family, vibe, and the colors you are wanting to wear. The results page will show photo-approved outfit options for each family member, and you can view your favorite pieces side by side! This is so helpful when coordinating outfits for multiple family members. Feel free to play around until you’ve selected the perfect outfits for your family. Then, click the email button to send yourself the clothing items you’ve chosen, and you can get shopping! You can also look for similar pieces that are already in your closet! You might be surprised with how many items you already own that you can style with the right outfit.

Start Shopping

Here are a list of some of my favorite boutiques and shops that have great pieces that photograph well:

Things to Keep In Mind

As you shop and piece your outfits together for your session, here are a few more reminders:

Add Depth and Movement

Try adding layers and accessories that create movement within your outfits. For example, you could add a duster, cardigan, suspenders, or high socks with a shorter dress for younger girls. I also always recommend mom consider wearing a dress because dresses photograph beautifully and create elegant movement. Plus a dress makes you feel dolled up! Another fun accessory to complete an outfit is a brim hat.

Avoid Logos and Neon Colors

A few things don’t photograph well and won’t look great in professional family photos. Because of editing styles, most bright neon colors like coral, blue, or green won’t show up well, especially in an outdoor setting. If you wear teal or orange, make sure they are a muted or earthly shade. A few other things to avoid are logos, athletic shoes, flip flops, Crocs, etc.

Try Your Outfits On Ahead of Time

As soon as possible, have everyone in the family try on their outfits! I cannot tell you how many times I have had to run back to the store to get a different size because my boys are growing so quickly. The right fit shows up in photos so it’s very important that everyone has the right size of clothing. You’ll have time to exchange sizes if needed when you order your outfits plenty in advance! If your child is between two sizes, I ALWAYS recommend you go with the smaller size. A smaller fit photographs much better than a baggy fit. 

Lay Out Your Outfits Together

Finally, make sure to lay out everyone’s outfits side by side at least one week in advance of your session. See how the colors and textures all fit together to make sure you don’t need to make any last-minute changes.

Plan Your Family Session

Taking family photos regularly will not be a tradition you will regret as your kiddos grow and change. If you are looking to plan a family session in the Sioux Falls area, contact me today!