What to Wear for Your Family Photo Session
Hi there! If you've booked a family session with me, you might be feeling a little stressed about one big question: "What are we all going to wear?"
Don't worry. You're not alone, and it's easier than it seems. I've put together my best tips to help your family look relaxed, connected, and like yourselves in your photos.
Coordinate, Don't Match
Gone are the days of everyone wearing white shirts and jeans. Matching outfits can look a bit stiff and make it hard to tell where one person ends and the next begins.
Instead, aim to coordinate. Pick a colour palette of three or four shades, and dress each person in a mix of those colours. This keeps things cohesive while letting everyone's personality shine through.
A simple way to start is to choose one outfit you love, often mom's, and build everyone else's look around it.
Choose Soft, Earthy Tones
Most of my family sessions happen outdoors around Calgary, surrounded by grass, trees, and big prairie skies. Soft, earthy colours look beautiful in these settings and feel timeless in your photos.
Some of my favourite colours for family sessions:
Cream, ivory, and oatmeal
Sage and olive green
Dusty blue and soft denim
Rust, terracotta, and mustard
Blush and warm peach
These tones complement skin and blend with nature, so the focus stays on your family.
Add Texture and Layers
Texture is one of the easiest ways to make photos feel rich and cozy. Think chunky knits, linen, corduroy, soft cotton, and lace.
Layers add depth, too. A cardigan over a dress, a jean jacket over a tee, or a vest over a button-up all create interest. Layers also give you options if the temperature changes during our session.
What to Avoid
A few things can pull attention away from your family in photos. Here's what I suggest leaving at home:
Big logos or graphic text. They draw the eye right to them and can date your photos.
Neon or very bright colours. These can cast colour onto skin and clash with natural surroundings.
Busy, small patterns. Tiny stripes and checks can look odd on camera. If you love patterns, choose one person to wear a soft, larger print.
Brand-new, uncomfortable clothes. If it pinches or itches, it will show on your face.
Don't Forget Comfortable Shoes
We'll likely walk a little during your session, sometimes on grass, trails, or uneven ground. Choose shoes that are comfy and easy to move in.
Neutral boots, simple sneakers, sandals, or flats all work well. For little ones, soft shoes they can run in are perfect. And if we find a sunny field, going barefoot can be fun, too!
Dressing Kids So They're Happy
Happy kids make the best photos. The key is comfort.
Choose soft fabrics that don't scratch or pinch.
Skip anything they have to constantly adjust.
Let them have a say. If your daughter loves her twirly dress, let her wear it and build around it.
Have them try on their outfit before session day to avoid surprises.
Bring a snack and a backup outfit, just in case.
A child who feels good in their clothes will play, laugh, and cuddle much more naturally.
Layering for Alberta Weather
If you've lived in Alberta for any amount of time, you know our weather can change in minutes. A warm evening can turn chilly and windy fast.
Plan for this by bringing a few extra layers: light jackets, cozy sweaters, or a scarf. In spring and fall, tights and warm socks under dresses help little ones stay comfortable.
For winter sessions, think cozy coats in neutral colours, knit hats, and mittens. Cold weather can make for some of the sweetest snuggly photos.
Your Quick Family Outfit Checklist
Choose a palette of 3–4 soft, earthy colours
Start with one outfit and build around it
Mix textures like knits, linen, and denim
Add layers for depth and warmth
Avoid logos, neon, and busy patterns
Pick comfortable shoes for walking
Make sure kids' clothes are soft and comfy
Pack extra layers for Alberta weather
Bring snacks, water, and a backup outfit
Lay everything out together the night before
Let's Plan Your Family Session
Still not sure what to wear? That's completely okay. I'm always happy to help you plan outfits and share ideas before your session.
If you're ready to book or have questions, reach out to me here. I can't wait to capture your family just as you are.
Talk soon,
Autumn