What to Wear for Family Photos: Choosing Colors

You’ve found the perfect photographer for your family session—now comes the planning, and it can feel overwhelming. Don’t worry, you’re not alone! As a family photographer based in Ankeny, Iowa, I specialize in capturing family and senior portraits throughout the Des Moines metro. I understand that organizing a session can feel daunting, especially if you’re unsure where to begin. That’s why I’m here to help make styling easy and stress-free with tips, outfit ideas, and a full style guide!

Why does your wardrobe matter?

Your wardrobe plays a key role in setting the tone for your family photo session. Whether you’re aiming for a cozy and casual vibe or a more elevated and refined look, what your family wears directly influences the overall style and feel of your images. From color palettes and patterns to textures, dresses, and pants, even the smallest details can shift the mood of your photos. In Iowa, outdoor sessions are typically best between April and late October, depending on the weather—making outfit planning even more important. If you’re unsure where to begin, this simple guide will help you choose the perfect outfits for your family photography session in Ankeny, Iowa.

Tip 1: Coordinate, don’t match

Before even looking for a wardrobe, start with the coordinating colors that you want to use. This can vary from picking anywhere from 3 color options to 9, depending on your group size. You don’t want everyone to match or focus on everyone wearing the same color as then, everyone blends together and can look like one blog of color in a photo. Instead, you want everyone to compliment everyone else in the photo. Plus, have you every tried to find the same shirt and color for multiple people before?! Unless it’s family Christmas pajamas, count me out! Searching Pinterest for some family pictures outfits can give you some inspiration, even adding in spring, summer, or fall while searching can narrow your search down more.

I always suggest families dress in muted, earth tones. They coordinate with skin tones well and there’s always lots of color options when shopping. Remember to layer with accessories like hats, necklaces, or jackets.

You can tell from the picture below, on the left, it’s giving a cozy tone, while the photo of the family on the right is setting a tone for elegance.

Tip 2: Solid vs Patterns

Once you’ve settled on your color palette (go you!), it’s time for the next big step—wardrobe shopping. Whether you’re digging through your closet, adding to your online cart, or braving the aisles of Target, this is where things can get a little… tricky. But don’t worry, I’ve got you covered.

1. Skip the super busy patterns.

Patterns are totally fine—think large plaid or subtle florals—but if they’re too loud or tiny, they can distract from the real stars: you and your crew. We want your photos to feel cohesive, not like a game of “Where’s Waldo?”

2. Mix up the textures.

Pair denim with knits, cotton with linen—these subtle differences add depth and visual interest to your photos. And yes, let’s talk about dresses. Even if you’re not a “dress person” (same), trust me—dresses bring texture, softness, and beautiful movement. Whether you’re cuddling on a blanket or catching a breeze, that flowy fabric adds magic. And hey, this is Iowa—the wind practically deserves a second shooter credit.

Let your wardrobe work with your session, not against it. A few thoughtful choices go a long way in creating portraits that feel natural, elevated, and uniquely you.

Tip 3: Don’t Wear Anything Trendy

When it comes to wardrobe, resist the urge to grab whatever trend just popped up on your Instagram feed. Instead, go for simple, timeless pieces that you’ll still love five years from now. Trust me—those neon crop tops and zebra print pants might be fun now, but do you really want to wonder what in the world was I thinking every time you pass your gallery wall? 😅

Family photos are an investment—and let’s be honest, they’ll be hanging in your living room until the next session (which, yes, I’d love to do again—hint hint). Choose outfits that feel like you, flatter everyone, and won’t make future-you cringe.

Tip 4: Fit Your Location

Match your family’s style to your session location. If you’re heading into a lush green forest, maybe skip the all-green outfits unless you’re going for full camouflage vibes. And if there’s grass, trails, or any kind of nature frolicking involved, leave the six-inch heels at home—your ankles will thank you.

The goal is to complement your surroundings, not compete with or disappear into them!

Tip 5: Accessorize

Don’t shy away from accessories like hats, shoes, jewelry, and even layering pieces like jackets and cardigans, which can really elevate your look. These details add depth and a cozy, polished vibe to your photos, making your portraits feel even more styled and intentional.

Tip 6: Don’t

Don’t forget about your socks! When you bend down or play with the kids, your pants might ride up, and you don’t want your socks to steal the show. The same goes for shirts—make sure it’s long enough to stay put when bending over, especially if you’ll be wrangling little ones!

Wear neon colors. Neon shades can reflect onto your skin, giving you an odd, unnatural tone in the photos.

Rock clothes with big logos or bold lettering. These can distract from the timeless feel of your photos and take away from the overall elegance of the shot.

Tip 7: Wear What Makes You Feel Like You

When picking out outfits, go for what makes you feel comfortable and confident. When you feel good in what you’re wearing, that confidence shines through in your photos, making for a much more natural and beautiful result.

Tip 8: Don’t Procrastinate

Avoid waiting until the last minute to pick out outfits. Rushing could lead to fit issues, missing delivery times for exchanges, or realizing too late that the colors and patterns don’t quite complement each other. Plan ahead to ensure everything is perfect for your session!

Need outfit ideas? Stores like Old Navy, Dillards, and Target have coordinating family collections.