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Styling Your Family Photoshoot: Beyond the Matchy-Matchy

By: Vicki Sands

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One of the most common questions I get from families preparing for their photoshoot is, "What should we wear?!" And trust me, I get it! The idea of coordinating outfits for an entire family can feel like a daunting puzzle. But here's my secret: it's less about matching perfectly and all about coordinating beautifully to reflect your family's unique story and personality.

Gone are the days of everyone in matching white shirts and jeans. While cute in theory, those looks often fall flat and can make your images feel dated. My goal for your family portraits is to create timeless, authentic images that you'll cherish for generations. And a thoughtfully curated wardrobe plays a huge role in that!

So, let's dive into how to choose outfits that will make your family truly shine.

Family fall photoshoot on bridge in New Albany.

New Albany's Taylor Farms bridge offered a stunning fall backdrop. This family's autumn attire seamlessly blended, creating warm, connected images. A wonderful add-on to their senior's portrait experience, capturing beautiful family bonds.

Start with a Vision: Location & Vibe First!

Before you even open your closet, consider the setting for your photoshoot. Are we chasing the golden hour in a sun-drenched field, exploring the charm of an urban downtown, or capturing cozy moments in the comfort of your home? The location inherently sets the tone for your session and should influence your clothing choices. A flowy dress might be perfect for a breezy outdoor session, while a tailored sweater and chinos would be ideal for a more polished studio look.

Family photoshoot at Franklin Park with vibrant colors and trees creating leading lines.

Love how the vibrant colors of this Franklin Park family photo session stand out! The grove's rich hues and strong leading lines beautifully frame their joyful moment emphasizing their incredible connection.

Extended family studio photoshoot with members wearing earthy and warm tones.

A joyful extended family gathering in the studio! Their coordinated earthy and warm tones made for a truly cohesive and festive photoshoot.

Brother and sister trio in fall outfits on Rose Run bridge, New Albany.

Fall perfection at Rose Run! This awesome brother/sister trio popped against the bridge, showcasing autumn's incredible colors!

Senior family photoshoot at Franklin Park during sunset with summer colors and vibrant floral gardens.

What a moment! A senior milestone beautifully captured with family amidst the stunning sunset and vibrant floral gardens of Franklin Park, all in bright, summery pastel colors.

The Art of the Color Palette: Harmonious Hues, Not Identical Shades

This is where the magic truly happens! Instead of matching, think about building a cohesive color palette of 3-5 complementary colors.

  • Think in Tones: Instead of everyone wearing the same shade of blue, imagine a palette of dusty blue, cream, a soft sage green, and perhaps a touch of warm terracotta. This variation adds depth and visual interest, making your images dynamic and visually rich.
  • Embrace Neutrals: Neutrals like ivory, cream, soft grey, beige, and denim are your best friends. They provide a beautiful, grounding base that allows your chosen colors to truly pop.
  • Inspiration is Everywhere: Look to your home decor for ideas – if your living room is filled with calming blues and greys, incorporating those tones into your wardrobe will ensure your framed photos blend seamlessly. Or, draw inspiration from nature: the vibrant hues of a sunset, the rich tones of autumn foliage, or the soft pastels of spring blossoms can guide your choices.
Newborn family photoshoot in master bedroom with sage green, floral patterns, and a caramel-colored dog.

Pure harmony! This beautiful newborn family session in the master bedroom featured snuggles, soft sage and floral tones, a pop of khaki, and even a perfectly matched furry friend.

Color & Your Unique Glow: Highlighting Skin Tones

The right colors can truly illuminate everyone's natural beauty.

  • Warm Tones: If your family members have golden, peachy, or yellow undertones (think of veins appearing greenish), lean into earthy tones like rust, olive green, warm browns, coral, or a golden mustard. These colors will bring out a healthy glow.
  • Cool Tones: For those with pink, blue, or red undertones (veins often appear bluish-purple), jewel tones like emerald green, sapphire blue, royal purple, or cool reds (like a berry shade) will be incredibly flattering. Pastels can also work wonders!

When in doubt, hold the fabric up to your skin in natural light. Does it brighten your complexion or wash you out?

Couple's fall photoshoot with rich green and burgundy clothing against bright yellow and orange autumn foliage.

Autumn's masterpiece! Brilliant yellows and oranges frame this beautiful couple in rich green and burgundy during their family photoshoot, truly capturing fall's amazing colors.

Children (son and daughter) in navy and royal blue jewel tones posing at Everal Barn.

At Everal Barn, their son and daughter's rich navy and royal blue jewel tones popped spectacularly, perfectly complementing the entire family's color palette against the gorgeous backdrop.

Elevated Comfort: Dressed Up, But Still YOU

Your outfits should feel like "you," just a slightly more polished version! Comfort is paramount – uncomfortable clothing will show in strained expressions. We want genuine smiles and authentic interactions!

  • Move Freely: Ensure everyone can sit, laugh, twirl, and play without feeling restricted. This is especially true for our littlest loves!
  • Textures Tell a Story: Incorporate different textures like soft knits, delicate lace, chambray, corduroy, or flowing linen. These variations add depth and visual interest without adding more colors.
  • Thoughtful Layers: Cardigans, vests, or light jackets can add dimension and offer versatility for different poses and looks throughout the session.
  • What to Avoid: Steer clear of large logos, distracting graphics, or fluorescent colors (they can cast unflattering color onto skin!). Overly trendy pieces might feel out of place years down the road; instead, aim for classic styles that stand the test of time.
Young family photoshoot with son in vibrant fall colors at their farm.

Farm life, fall beauty! This young family, dressed in rich autumn tones and warm plaids, captured sweet moments amidst their farm's timeless charm. A wonderful photography story.

The Finishing Touches: Accessories & Details

Accessories are the little flourishes that can elevate an outfit and showcase personality.

  • Less is More: Choose a few meaningful pieces rather than over-accessorizing. A delicate necklace, classic watch, or simple earrings can add polish.
  • Scarves & Hats: For outdoor sessions, a scarf can add a pop of color and texture, and a stylish hat can be a fun, personal touch (just ensure it doesn't cast harsh shadows on faces!).
  • Clean Shoes: Don't let scuffed or inappropriate footwear detract from an otherwise perfect outfit. Clean, comfortable shoes that complement the overall style are a must. Barefoot can also be lovely for certain settings!
Family of four in black, white, denim, khaki at railroad bridge with converging tracks.

Striking simplicity meets raw power! This family of four, in classic black, white, denim, and khaki, stood out beautifully against the railroad bridge's rich chocolate browns and dramatic converging tracks.

Hair & Makeup: Enhancing Your Natural Beauty

The goal here is to look like the most radiant version of yourselves, not dramatically different.

  • Hair: Should be clean, styled, and comfortable. Consider the elements for outdoor shoots – a little wind can create beautiful movement, but hair constantly blowing in faces might be frustrating. Simple braids or half-up styles can be great for kiddos.
  • Makeup (for adults): Think natural enhancement. Even out skin tone with a light foundation or tinted moisturizer, define eyes with a touch of mascara and liner, and add a healthy flush with blush. Matte or satin finishes are often best, as anything too shimmery can reflect light unexpectedly. A neutral or slightly brighter lip color can add a touch of freshness.
  • Nail It: Don't overlook your hands and nails! They often find their way into photos, whether we're capturing sweet hand-holding moments or little ones' fingers wrapped around a parent's thumb. Ensure nails are clean and neatly trimmed. For adults, a fresh manicure in a neutral, classic, or color-coordinated shade will add a polished finish to your overall look. Avoid chipped polish or very bright, distracting colors that might draw the eye away from your beautiful faces.
Mom and daughters in jewel-toned colors smile joyfully against a wooded area.

Effortless style and sweet connections! This mom and daughter trio shines with jewel-toned colors against the natural wooded backdrop. Even just the addition of subtle jewelry and a pop of nail color, perfectly reflects their easygoing personalities.

Props: Adding Personality & Story

Props can add a touch of personality and help tell your family's unique story.

  • Meaningful Items: Think about items that hold significance to your family – a beloved children's book, a cozy blanket, a favorite musical instrument, or a vintage camera.
  • Keep it Simple: A few well-chosen props are more impactful than a cluttered collection.
  • Interaction is Key: How can your family interact with the prop? This creates more dynamic and authentic images.
  • Discuss with Your Photographer: I'm always happy to chat about prop ideas and how they can enhance your session!
Extended family photoshoot showing coordinated, vibrant color palette.

Extended family color magic! Witnessing how simple color coordination creates vibrant pops and stunning cohesion is the secret to a perfect portrait.

The "Lay it All Out" Test

My top tip once you've gathered your ideas? Lay all the outfits, accessories, and any props out together on a bed or floor. Step back and take a look. Does it feel cohesive? Is there enough variety in color and texture? Does it reflect your family's unique personality? If it all feels harmonious, you're golden!

Choosing your family's wardrobe doesn't have to be stressful. By focusing on a complementary color palette, comfortable-yet-elevated styles, and thoughtful details, we'll create images that are genuinely you – full of warmth, connection, and timeless beauty. I can't wait to capture your family's story!

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    • couples + engagement + wedding portraits
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    • business branding
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  • featured stories
614.595.4707
vicki@vickisands.com
Message Me