Family Photos: Don’t stress! A Guide to Coordinating Outfits for Photos!

Getting ready for family photos is equally fun and agonizing. I get it, however with these tips, I will help you stress a little less and capture the love and craziness you share with your people. When preparing for a family photoshoot, one of the key things to consider is YOUR outfit. Coordinating your look first will create an easier time pairing for your family. In this blog post, I’ll walk you through the steps to ensure your family is dressed to impress for your upcoming photoshoot!

1. Choose a Color Palette:

Start by selecting a color palette that compliments each other, your location and even your home where you want to hang the photos! Consider the season and the background of the photoshoot location. Neutrals, pastels, and earthy tones often work really well, but don't be afraid to incorporate pops of color or simple patterns that suit your family's personality and your home décor! Have Agreeable Gray walls by Sherwin Williams?

You might be able to get away with about any color then… ;)

This is important, for real! Gone are the days of everyone wearing identical outfits. Instead, aim for a coordinated look with outfits that have complementary colors and styles. This adds depth and personality to the photos while still keeping a sense of unity. No more khakis and white for everyone (you’ve got Inherit now, you’re set! lol)

3. Consider the Setting:

Think about the location of the photoshoot. If you're taking pictures outdoors in a natural setting, earthy tones and soft colors blend seamlessly with the surroundings. They create an effortless look and timeless photo for the years to come above the mantle. For an indoor shoot, consider the backdrop and talk it out with your photographer, they will ALWAYS have some insight. Busy patterns and neon colors rarely offer appeal on the other end of the camera.

4. Start with One Outfit + create a Mood Board:

It might seem extra, but it is soooo helpful! Begin with one family member's outfit that you absolutely love and build the rest around it. I ALWAYS suggest starting with yourself. Mama, if YOU love your outfit, the rest of the family will feed off your energy and YOU will be able to enjoy the photoshoot too!  It could be a statement piece, a favorite dress, or that sweater + skirt that you just adore. Bonus, you’ll get some new church clothing if you choose an elevated photo look too, win-win! This helps establish a theme that the rest of the family can follow too. Got older kids with outfit opinions? Put together a mood board and have them find something similar that works with your vision! You definitely want them to love their outfits too!

5. Mix Patterns and Textures:

Don't be shy girl…mixing patterns and textures is an easy way to create more depth in your photos, do so sparingly however and only choose one to two! Incorporate patterns like stripes, plaids, and the beloved floral maxi dress, keep them balanced with solid-colored pieces. Mixing textures, such as combining denim with softer fabrics, adds depth and visual interest to the ensemble. Make note; some plaids and stripes can look really goofy on camera. When odd stripes and patterns appear in your images, this is called a moiré effect. Try to keep the pattern really small or largely spaced out; it's the middle ground that can be troublesome! Your photographer can work some magic, but not all the time! 

6. Avoid Logos and Busy Graphics:

Steer clear of clothing with large logos or busy graphics. These can be distracting and take away from the focus of the photos: your family's connection. Opt for simple, classic pieces that stand the test of time.

7. Accessorize Thoughtfully:

Accessories can elevate an outfit for sure! Coordinating accessories like a bandana in the hair or that fun fall  hat can tie the look together beautifully. Just make sure they don't overpower the session!

8. Dress for Comfort:

While coordinating outfits is important, do not  compromise comfort! Again, you’re shopping at Inherit so it should be simple… :) Make sure each family member feels at ease in their chosen attire, as it will reflect in the photos and who knows what your photographer might have you do!

 *cue frolicking in a field with badger holes…*. 

Uncomfortable outfits = Uncomfortable photos. There, I said it.

Shop mama’s dress here!

 

9. Consider the Season 

Tee’s and midi skirts in a Minnesota winter might not work too swell, but if you’re headed to a beach session, perfect! You get the idea here…

10. Plan Ahead and Try Outfits:

To avoid any last-minute stress, plan your family's outfits well in advance. Lay out the complete outfits for everyone and do a trial run try-on before the photoshoot. This will give you the chance to make adjustments if needed + ensure everything looks cohesive.

 

Coordinating your family's  fits’ for a photoshoot is all about achieving a coordinated look based on your preference  while keeping each family member's unique style in mind. Remember, the most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the process. I know it can feel sooo overwhelming, and I hope these tips help ease the overwhelm for your next session!