Let’s be honest: the hardest part of planning family photos for many families isn’t finding the right photographer or picking a date…. It’s figuring out what everyone should wear! I’ve even had clients hesitate to book a session because they dread coordinating everyone’s outfits. 

Sound familiar? You’re not alone! At The Flash Lady Photography, many of our clients tell us that coordinating outfits is the most stressful part of the process. But here’s the good news: it doesn’t have to be. In fact, with a little guidance and a few simple tips, planning outfits can be one of the easiest (and even fun!) parts of getting ready for your session. Looking for family photo location ideas? Check out my homepage and scroll down for some ideas!

Start with Mom’s Outfit 

It’s always easier to break down a project into smaller steps. This is no different! I recommend starting with mom’s outfit first and then pulling together everyone else’s outfits. It doesn’t have to be Mom; just choose one family member to start. It’s much easier to decide the rest of the outfits if you have one chosen as the foundation of the look! Also, as moms, we tend to put ourselves last! This is the time to put yourself first! Choose an outfit that you love and feel confident in so that you can rock your session!

Beautiful fall family photo

Choose 2–3 Main Colors to Build Your Look

The number one secret to effortless family photos? Start by picking 2–3 main colors and building everyone’s outfits around that palette. This doesn’t mean everyone needs to wear the exact same thing. In fact, strict matching can make your photos look stiff or outdated. Instead, think of your family’s outfits as a coordinated mix, not a uniform.

A great example: In one of our recent cherry blossom sessions, mom wore a vibrant floral dress that served as the anchor for the whole family’s look. The rest of the family wore soft neutrals pulled straight from the tones in her dress, creating a cohesive, polished look that photographed beautifully.

Mom’s beautiful dress serves at as the anchor for the rest of the outfits

Cohesive colors always look beautiful!

Add One Pattern or Texture for Interest

Once you’ve selected your colors, choose one person to wear a subtle pattern such as florals, plaid, or even a textured fabric. This creates visual interest and helps tie the whole group together. If patterns aren’t your thing, don’t worry! A mix of textures (think linen, gauze, or soft cotton) can add that same depth without competing for attention.

The patterned dress fits in beautifully

Consider the Season and Location

Spring Family Photo Outfit Ideas

Spring sessions are full of soft colors, new blooms, and gentle light, so this season is perfect for light, fresh tones. Think soft pastels like blush, sage green, or pale blue, paired with cream or white neutrals. Flowy dresses and linen shirts look beautiful and photograph well in spring breezes. Consider layers like a light cardigan or denim jacket to keep everyone comfortable. Accessories should stay simple and sweet, such as sandals or even bare feet for a young kid, which can look adorable, depending on your location.

Spring florals and light blues always look lovely in the spring

Springy colors with layers complete this look

We love how Grandma’s blouse and scarf pop in this portrait

Summer Family Photo Outfit Ideas
Summer brings golden light and a carefree vibe, which is perfect for relaxed, breathable styles. Earthy neutrals, ocean blues, and warm tones like coral or mustard work especially well. Lightweight fabrics like gauze, cotton, or linen will help everyone stay cool. Flowy sundresses, rolled sleeves, and easy sandals create a comfortable yet polished look. Summer photos are the perfect time to keep things simple and laid-back—think barefoot on the beach or a fun, natural setting.

We love a sundress look for mom in the summer

This extended family portrait shows off everyone’s style yet still has a cohesive look

Fall Family Photo Outfit Ideas
Fall is one of the most popular times for family portraits, and for good reason—those rich tones and cozy layers are a dream to photograph. Colors like rust, burgundy, olive green, and navy work beautifully against changing leaves. This is the time to bring out textures like knits, denim, and flannel. Layering adds depth and warmth to your look, whether it’s a vest, scarf, or boots. One patterned piece—like plaid or floral—can tie the whole family’s outfits together while still letting your individual styles shine.

Fall, earthy tones look perfect for this fall family portrait

The little guys look perfect for fall

We love the fall colors along with the cute layers for this look

Winter Family Photo Outfit Ideas
Winter sessions, whether indoor or outdoors in the snow, can feel elegant, cozy, or festive depending on your vision. Jewel tones like emerald, sapphire, and deep red pair beautifully with neutrals like black, cream, or soft gray. Fabrics like velvet, wool, or chunky knits bring that cozy texture to your portraits. If you plan an indoor session, dress it up with timeless, classic pieces. For outdoor sessions, choose outerwear that complements your palette and avoid bright logos or busy patterns. Winter accessories like scarves or beanies can be both stylish and practical.

This indoor winter family portrait turned out beautifully

Perfect blend of winter tones and accessories

This cozy, indoor family portrait session has the winter vibes

The Best Tip is to Try Everyone On Before Your Session

Finally, my BEST tip when it comes to choosing outfits is to have everyone try on their clothes in advance. Not the day of the session, not right before we start, but days in advance. Why? This allows you time to ensure everything fits, is clean, and that you have everything. Save yourself from a frantic Target run the morning of your session. Knowing your outfits are good to go, you’ll feel even more relaxed and excited about your photography session. 

Not sure if you have the best outfits? As a full-service family photographer, I’m here to help you! I offer guidance every step of the way from start to finish to make your portrait process stress-free and fun. Clients can send me a photo of what they plan on wearing, and I’ll offer guidance right on the spot!

Our best tip is to have everyone try on their clothes BEFORE the day of the session

Your Central CT Family Photographer is Here to Help!

At The Flash Lady Photography, you’ll never be left guessing when it comes to what to wear. We’re happy to offer outfit planning tips, help you choose color palettes, and even send visual guides or example outfits if you’d like a little extra inspiration. Our goal is to make sure you feel confident, comfortable, and excited to step in front of the camera.

Family portraits are about capturing real moments, real connections, and yes, looking your best while doing it. With just a little planning and support, your next photoshoot will be as stunning as it is stress-free.

Ready to start planning your family photography session in Central CT? Let’s make magic together! Click here to contact me.