How to Coordinate Family Outfits for a Picture-Perfect Photoshoot

Outfits Can Make or Break Your Family Portrait Session

Planning a family photoshoot is exciting, but choosing the right outfits can sometimes feel overwhelming. As a family photographer serving Carmel, Westfield, and Indianapolis, I’m often asked for tips on how to make family outfits look great in portraits. Coordinated clothing can really bring your family pictures together and create timeless photos you’ll love to hang on your walls.

Here’s how to coordinate family outfits for a picture-perfect photoshoot without all the stress.

Choose a Color Palette for Family Photographs

Pick two to three main colors that look good together. Neutrals like cream, gray, beige, and white work well with soft tones like blush, light blue, olive green, or navy. You can add small pops of color through accessories like scarves, shoes, or jewelry.

Avoid everyone wearing the exact same color. Instead, think about blending colors that look natural and cozy. For example, if one person wears a soft blue dress, another might wear a cream shirt with navy pants.

A good tip is to start with one person’s outfit—often mom’s or the child whose outfit you already have—and build the rest of the family’s wardrobe around that. This approach keeps everything coordinated without feeling too matchy.

Mix Textures and Patterns for Better Family Portraits

Textures like knit sweaters, denim, lace, corduroy, or soft cotton add richness and visual interest to your portraits. If everyone is wearing solid, smooth fabrics, your photos may lack the variety that makes portraits feel warm and inviting.

A few simple patterns are perfectly fine—such as narrow stripes, dainty florals, or small checks. The key is moderation. Choose one or two outfits with patterns and keep the rest simple to avoid clashing or overwhelming the photos.

Avoid bold logos or graphics, which can date your photos and take attention away from your faces. Timeless portraits come from keeping the focus on your family’s connection, not on busy or trendy prints.

Dress for the Season and Location of Your Family Photoshoot

Your outfits should feel comfortable and look right for the season and setting of your session. In fall, cozy layers like cardigans, scarves, boots, and warm earthy tones work beautifully in nature-filled spots around Carmel or Westfield. Think rust, mustard, olive, navy, or cream.

In winter, focus on layers that keep you warm but photograph well—like fitted coats, soft knits, hats, and boots. You might consider an indoor session with your Indianapolis family photographer to avoid the chill while still getting lovely lifestyle portraits.

For spring and summer, opt for lighter fabrics like cotton and linen in soft pastels or light neutrals. Outdoor settings, like gardens or parks in Carmel and Westfield, look amazing when paired with blush, sky blue, sage, or soft white.

If you’re choosing an urban backdrop, such as downtown Indianapolis, think about clean lines, denim, leather jackets, or trendy but simple pieces that complement stone or brick backgrounds.

Keep Comfort in Mind for Better Family Photoshoot

Comfort is key—especially for kids. If your child hates their shoes or outfit, that discomfort will show in the photos. Soft, flexible fabrics are a great choice for both kids and adults. Make sure clothing isn’t too tight, itchy, or stiff.

When kids feel good, they’re more likely to smile, move naturally, and enjoy the session. For adults, shoes matter too. If you’re walking through a field, opt for supportive, neutral shoes that work with the terrain.

Also, plan ahead for layers. You might wear a jacket or cardigan at the start of the session and remove it for some variety in your final gallery.

Plan Ahead for Picture-Perfect Portrait Outfits

Don’t wait until the day of the shoot to think about what everyone’s wearing. At least one week before your session, lay everything out. Put the full outfits—including shoes, socks, and accessories—side-by-side on a bed or floor.

Take a photo of the layout to see how everything looks together. This helps you spot clashing colors, missing pieces, or last-minute changes. If something doesn’t feel right, you still have time to fix it.

Many photographers, including myself, offer styling advice. Some even offer a client closet or links to help you shop for camera-friendly outfits. Don’t be afraid to reach out and ask for suggestions.

Accessorize Thoughtfully

Accessories should add interest without stealing attention. Delicate necklaces, hair bows, suspenders, belts, or a wide-brimmed hat can elevate your look. Think of accessories as the finishing touches that pull everything together.

Coordinate but don’t copy. If one child is wearing suspenders, someone else might wear a belt in a matching tone. The key is balance and a natural look.

Avoid sunglasses and smart watches, and make sure your pockets are empty before the session. Phones, keys, and wallets can make awkward bulges that distract from clean photos.

Final Tips from a Family Photographer

Grooming matters just as much as clothing. Make sure hair is neat, fingernails are trimmed and clean, and little ones’ faces are wiped clean. Think about how you’d like to remember this moment—well-styled and relaxed.

Get the kids excited by letting them help choose a piece of their outfit or by telling them they’ll get a treat after the session. The more positive energy you bring, the better the session will go.

Try not to stress. Some of the best family photos come from in-between moments—the laughter, the hugs, the silly faces. Your family photography session in Carmel, Westfield, or Indianapolis should be fun and memorable.

Need more help picking out colors for your family photo outfits? Click here.

Ready to Book Your Family Photography Session in Carmel, Westfield, or Indianapolis?

Are you ready to schedule your family portrait session in Central Indiana? Contact L. Severson Photography to book your session today. Call the studio at 317-867-3723. Or hit the button below for our contact form. Let’s create stunning portraits that you will treasure forever!