The short version
Most photographers give the same core advice for family photo outfits: coordinate rather than match, stick to a small color palette, build the group’s outfits around one anchor piece, add texture, and choose clothes that are comfortable and fit well. Everything below expands on those ideas so you can apply them to your own family.
Coordinate, don’t match
Identical outfits (the classic white shirts and jeans) are the easiest way to look uniform, but they can also look flat and dated. Coordinating means everyone wears colors that belong together while keeping their own style. Different garments in related shades usually look more natural than carbon copies.
For a deeper walkthrough of this idea, see our guide to coordinating family photos.
Step 1: Choose a palette
Pick a small palette, often two to four colors, that suits your season and location. Many photographers suggest soft neutrals and muted earth tones as a dependable starting point, with one or two deeper accent colors. Try to keep colors at a similar level of brightness so no one person becomes the visual focus by accident (for example, an all-black adult next to an all-white baby can look jarring).
Our guide to photo shoot colors that work covers palettes by season and colors to be careful with.
Step 2: Start with one anchor outfit
Choose one outfit first, often the one that is hardest to find or the most particular person’s favorite, such as a patterned dress or a plaid shirt. Pull two or three colors from it, then choose everyone else’s clothing from those colors. Patterns like plaid or florals that contain several colors make this easy because they act as a built-in palette.
Step 3: Add texture, layers and variety
Solid colors can look flat if everyone wears the same fabric. Mixing knits, denim, corduroy, cotton, lace or lightweight jackets adds depth without adding more colors. Aim for variety in the type of top as well: a sweater, a button-up, a dress, a cardigan. Try not to put two people in exactly the same garment and color unless it is a deliberate choice.
What to wear for a casual family shoot
A casual shoot does not mean sloppy. Good options generally include:
- Jeans or neutral trousers with textured sweaters or simple tops
- Casual dresses and skirts with a denim or knit layer
- Clean, plain shoes or boots that suit the location
- Layers such as cardigans or light jackets that can be added or removed
Keep the palette consistent even if the outfits are relaxed.
Dress code ideas by style
If you are deciding how formal to be, think of three broad levels:
- Casual: denim, knits, simple dresses, sneakers or boots.
- Smart casual: collared shirts, blouses, chinos, sweater dresses, loafers or ankle boots.
- Dressy: suits or blazers, formal dresses, dress shoes. Everyone should be at a similar level of formality.
Whatever you choose, make sure it fits the location. A beach, a city street and a living room each suit different levels of formality. See photo shoot looks and styles for more on matching clothing to the overall feel of the shoot.
What to avoid
- Large logos, slogans and cartoon characters, which can distract and date the photos
- Neon or very saturated colors, which can cast color onto skin
- Busy patterns on several people at once
- Clothing that is too tight, too loose or that needs constant adjusting
- Brand-new shoes that rub or restrict movement
Dressing kids and babies
Comfort comes first. Children who are itchy, hot or fidgeting tend to show it in photos. Choose soft fabrics in the right size, bring a backup outfit in case of spills, and let older kids have some input within the palette. Younger children are often dressed in lighter shades, with older kids and adults in slightly deeper tones, but this is a guideline rather than a rule. For infants, see newborn with family photo ideas for outfit suggestions that keep the focus on the baby.
How to not look awkward in family photos
Awkwardness usually comes from discomfort, not from the clothes alone. A few practical points:
- Wear things you have already tried on and moved around in.
- Choose outfits that you feel confident in, since confidence tends to show.
- Skip anything you will want to tug at or readjust.
- Try on the full outfits together at home a few days early.
- Follow the photographer’s directions and focus on the people next to you rather than the camera.
A note on the “3-3-3 rule”
You may see a “3-3-3 rule for clothes” mentioned. This phrase is usually associated with capsule wardrobe or packing ideas (for example, a small set of tops, bottoms and shoes), not a standard rule for photography. It can be a handy way to limit your outfit choices, but it is not an established photography guideline.
Final check before the shoot
Lay all outfits out together, step back and ask whether any person stands out for the wrong reason, whether colors feel related, and whether everyone is comfortable. For help with timing, packing and the night before, see how to get ready for a photo shoot.
Related guides
- Coordinating family photos
- Photo shoot colors that work
- Neutral fall family photo outfits
- Family of 5 fall photo ideas
FAQ
What is the best thing to wear for family photos?
There is no single best outfit, but a cohesive palette of soft neutrals and muted tones, comfortable clothes that fit well, and some texture is a dependable approach.
Should we all wear white and jeans?
You can, but many photographers prefer coordinated rather than identical outfits because they tend to look more natural and less uniform.
Should I ask my photographer for advice?
Yes. Photographers know their location and lighting, and many provide a wardrobe guide for clients.