Picture this: you booked family photos months ago, but somehow, you’re scrambling the night before. You’re trying to finalize outfits, do try-ons, and *perfect* the family’s look. Sound familiar? We’ve all been there before. But, styling for family photos does not have to be an overwhelming experience!
Planning for family photos can feel a lot like taking a road trip with kids—it sounds great in theory, but when the moment arrives, it’s overwhelming and stressful. As a Professional Family Photo Stylist and a mom of three, I’m here to share my best tips, tricks, and resources to take the stress out of the process and make it *almost* painless.
Consider Editing Styles
For photos, it’s especially important to start by considering how your photographer edits. If your photographer’s portfolio leans toward light and airy images, choose pastels and creamy neutrals. For photographers with a darker, moodier style, opt for blacks, dark browns, and deeper tones while avoiding bright creams. Some photographers might encourage bold colors or exclusively neutral tones, so always check their style before finalizing your outfits.
First, Start with Mom’s Outfit
When I think about styling families for their photoshoot, I always hear the Bluey theme song in my head–Mom always comes first! Starting with a statement piece for Mom allows you to build the rest of the family’s look around her style and color palette. There is a really amazing color tool to help come up with color palettes that work together!
The key is to find a color palette that coordinates with Mom’s outfit. Whether she’s wearing a patterned piece with colors you can pull from or a solid outfit that allows complementary colors to shine, this step sets the tone for the entire family. A well-rounded palette typically includes five colors, with at least three of them being neutrals (think cream, ecru, off-white, beige, khaki, tan, camel, or brown).
Next, Style Dad’s Outfit
Here’s a secret: dads are often just as picky as moms when it comes to their looks, even if they act like they’re going with the flow! Whether your partner’s go-to style is a quarter-zip sweater, a button-down, or a cozy knit, it’s important to keep him comfortable and confident—but maybe steer him away from the golf polo and Apple Watch.
When styling Dad, incorporate some of the colors from your palette to avoid putting too much visual weight on the adults’ outfits. Balance is key! Dads do best with neutrals as they tend to be conservative with wearing color.
Finally, Style the Kids!
Once Mom and Dad are styled, it’s time to dress the little ones. This is where you can have fun with textures, layers, and accessories. Keep outfits for children comfortable, easy to move in without wardrobe malfunctions, and well-fitting. It is important that your child isn’t swimming in their new outfit!
Top Tips for Elevated Family Looks
To create elevated, cohesive looks for your family, keep these tips in mind:
Add Layers
Yes, even in warm weather! Lightweight layers like sheer overlays, lace, tulle, or mesh can create depth. For colder seasons, heavy knits or jackets achieve the same effect.
Give Everyone Their Own Look
Each family member should have a personalized outfit. When multiple people wear the exact same fabric or color, they tend to blend together in photos.
Incorporate Movement Pieces
Flowy fabrics (like maxi dresses or skirts) create dynamic, visually interesting photos. Pieces that move with the wind or while walking add a sense of story and emotion to your images!
Incorporate Various Fabrics
Avoid sticking to all cotton—it lacks dimension and can look flat in photos. Instead, mix in textures like corduroy, silk, knit, crochet, ribbed fabrics, or even velvet. These textures add depth and visual interest.
Stick to a Palette
Avoid outfits that have only one or two colors—or no consistent palette at all. A cohesive palette of five colors will create harmony while keeping the looks varied and visually engaging.
The Finishing Touches
The parts of an outfit that are always forgotten include shoes that fit the aesthetic of the outfits, props, and accessories. And, remember to try on your outfits in advance and steam them before the session to avoid wrinkles!
Styling your family for photos doesn’t have to be a stressful, last-minute task. By planning ahead, starting with Mom’s outfit, and following these simple guidelines, you can create a cohesive and elevated look for your family. Remember: textures, movement, and thoughtful color palettes are your best friends. And if all else fails? Lean on professionals! Don’t be afraid to ask your photographer or a stylist for a recommendation or support.
