What to Wear for Your Family Photoshoot: A Simple Guide for Beautiful, Timeless Images


Planning a family photoshoot is exciting, but choosing what to wear can feel surprisingly overwhelming. The good news is that you don’t need a closet full of new outfits or perfectly matching clothes to create beautiful, cohesive images. With a few simple tips, you can pull together looks that feel natural, comfortable, and photograph beautifully.

Here’s my go‑to guide to help you style your family with confidence.


1. Start With a Colour Palette

Instead of matching outfits, aim for coordinating colours. Choose 2–4 tones that work well together and build everyone’s outfit from there.

Great palette ideas:

  • Neutrals: cream, beige, tan, grey, soft white
  • Earthy tones: olive, rust, mustard, brown
  • Soft pastels: blush, sage, dusty blue
  • Rich tones: navy, burgundy, forest green

Neutrals and earth tones photograph especially well outdoors in Kamloops — they blend beautifully with our landscapes and create a timeless look.


2. Choose Clothing With Texture and Movement

Textures add depth and interest to your photos without being distracting.

Think:

  • Knit sweaters
  • Linen shirts
  • Flowy dresses
  • Denim
  • Corduroy
  • Cotton layers

Movement is also your friend — dresses or skirts that catch the breeze add a soft, natural feel to your images.


3. Dress for the Location and Season

Kamloops has such a variety of backdrops — sagebrush hills, riversides, forests, and fields — and your clothing should complement the environment.

For outdoor sessions:

  • Avoid neon colours (they reflect onto skin)
  • Choose comfortable shoes for walking
  • Bring layers for unpredictable weather

For indoor or studio-style sessions:

  • Soft neutrals and simple patterns work beautifully
  • Avoid overly bright or busy prints


4. Keep Patterns Simple

Patterns are totally okay — just choose them thoughtfully.

Great choices:

  • Small florals
  • Thin stripes
  • Subtle plaids

Avoid:

  • Large logos
  • Bold graphics
  • Super busy prints

If one person wears a pattern, balance it with solid colours on everyone else.


5. Prioritize Comfort (Especially for Kids!)

Kids look happiest when they feel good. Choose clothing that:

  • Isn’t itchy
  • Isn’t too tight
  • Allows them to move and play

A comfortable child is a photogenic child — and it makes the whole session smoother for everyone.


6. Don’t Forget the Details

Small touches can elevate your photos:

  • Simple jewelry
  • Neutral-toned shoes
  • Soft, natural makeup
  • Well-groomed hair
  • Ironed clothing (wrinkles really do show!)

Avoid bright white socks, athletic shoes, or anything that distracts from your faces.


7. Lay Everything Out Together

Before your session, lay all outfits on a bed or floor to see how they look as a group.

If something feels “off,” swap it for a simpler piece.

This quick step makes a huge difference.


8. Most Importantly: Be Yourself

Your photos should reflect your family’s personality. If you’re not a “dressy” family, don’t force it. If your child has a favourite sweater, work it into the palette. Authenticity always photographs best.


Final Thoughts

Choosing outfits doesn’t have to be stressful. With a little planning and a cohesive colour palette, your family will look beautifully coordinated and completely natural. And remember — the goal is to capture connection, joy, and the unique story of your family. What you wear should support that, not overshadow it.

If you ever need help choosing outfits, feel free to send me photos of your options. I’m always happy to help you style your session.