Style Matters: What to Wear for Family Photos

🎯 My Philosophy: Be You

I’m a natural family photographer based in London, specializing in relaxed, real-life photography outdoors or in your home. My style isn’t about stiff poses or curated wardrobes. It’s about capturing connection, emotion, and the moments that make your family your family.

Most of the families I photograph show up in what they actually wear day-to-day—casual clothes. Honestly, that's what I prefer. I don’t send out catalogs of style guides or color-coordinating checklists. There’s no pressure to be anyone other than yourselves.

If your child loves wearing a floaty, flowery dress, that’s perfect. If they prefer shorts and a hoodie, great! The goal is to feel comfortable and have your photos reflect real life—not a curated version.

👕 A Few Practical Tips

That said, there are a few things worth keeping in mind:

• Avoid bold logos, cartoon characters, and big brand names. These tend to draw attention away from your faces and the emotion of the image.

  
  

• Think about how you look together. You don’t need to match, but try to avoid visual clashes. It’s important for your outfits to feel like they all live in the same universe.

  
  

• Be true to your style. If heels are your thing, wear them! (Though for the record, no one’s ever turned to the Forest in heels… yet). In a home environment, if it suits you, why not?

  
  

👜 What About Bags, Buggies, and Backup Gear?

Outdoor shoots often feel like a little mini-adventure, especially with small kids involved. We’ll wander around a park, a patch of woodland, or through your local neighborhood. This means you’ll probably have a bag or buggy with you. That’s totally normal!

However, when it comes time for photos, many parents (especially mums) don’t want the bag to appear in the shot. So, we often end up hiding it behind a tree, or I’ll carry it. If you can manage to travel light, it’s more freeing. But I’ve been there with small kids—some days, I felt like I needed a donkey to haul all the extras!

📱 Phones, Sunglasses & Pocket Bulges

One small but surprisingly common issue is phones in pockets. They create odd rectangular bulges that can distract from otherwise lovely photos. I’m always happy to keep phones (and sunglasses!) in my rucksack while we’re shooting.

🎨 Matching Colors and Patterns

Selecting colors and patterns can significantly impact how cohesive your family photos will look. While you don’t need to match exactly, coordinating your color palette is a great idea. Choose a set of three to four colors that complement each other. For example, neutral tones like beige, soft grey, and pastel colors work wonderfully together.

Patterns can also add interest, but be cautious. One or two family members can have patterned outfits, but the rest should typically stick to solids. This balance ensures that the focus remains on your faces and interactions rather than being overwhelmed by competing designs.

🌿 Choosing the Right Location

The place where you choose to have your photos taken can also affect what you wear. For example, a beach setting may call for more relaxed and casual outfits, while a garden location could lend itself to vintage or bohemian styles. Discuss your location with your photographer, and get suggestions on how to dress accordingly.

📅 Timing and Weather Considerations

Timing your shoot is also crucial. Early mornings or late afternoons often provide the best natural light. Keep an eye on your local weather forecast. If it is predicted to be chilly, dress accordingly with layers. Consider hats and scarves as stylish additions that keep you warm.

If it rains, don’t stress! Rainy days can result in beautiful, moody photos. Have a couple of umbrellas available, and be open to getting a little wet for the sake of great shots.

Conclusion: Embrace Your Unique Style

In the end, the most important thing is that you feel comfortable and genuine in your outfit choices. Embrace your unique style and let your personality shine through. Family photos should reflect who you are as a family, capturing authentic moments that you'll cherish for years to come.

One last thought: if you want to feel even better about your outfits, you can always reach out to your photographer for additional tips. Trust in their experience, and together you can create a beautiful and memorable photo session that truly represents your family.

Feeling anxious about your photoshoot? Don’t worry! Just be yourself, and the rest will follow naturally.