A Complete Guide for Couples and Families:
One of the most common questions I get as a photographer is “What should we wear?” and honestly it makes sense. What you wear can completely change the feel of your photos. The good news is there is no one right answer. The goal is not perfection. The goal is a look that feels like you, photographs beautifully, and feels timeless years from now when these images are hanging on your walls.
Whether you are planning a couples session, maternity, family photos, or an announcement session, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know so you can feel confident and excited instead of stressed.
Why Neutral Colors Matter So Much
Neutral colors are the foundation of beautiful, timeless photos. They photograph incredibly well, they do not distract from faces or emotions, and they allow connection to be the main focus instead of outfits.
Some of my favorite neutrals include:
Creams
Whites
Ivory
Beige
Tan
Camel
Soft browns
Muted taupe
Soft gray
These tones work beautifully in almost any setting. Whether we are in an open field, a greenhouse, under oak trees, or at sunset, neutral colors allow the environment and the emotion to shine instead of competing for attention.
Another huge benefit of neutrals is longevity. Trends come and go, but soft, neutral tones will still feel beautiful and relevant years from now when you look back at your photos.
If You Love Color, You Can Still Wear Color
I never want anyone to feel like they have to erase their personality for photos. If you love color, wear color. The key is using color intentionally.
Think pops of color rather than everyone in bold shades from head to toe. This could look like:
A soft sage dress
Muted blue
Dusty rose
Rust
Terracotta
Mustard
Soft olive
These tones still feel grounded and photograph beautifully while adding interest and personality. I always recommend keeping one or two people in a pop of color while the rest of the group stays more neutral. This keeps the look balanced and cohesive.
Cohesive Does Not Mean Matching
This is one of the most important things to remember.
We do not want everyone matching exactly. No identical white shirts and jeans across the board. That tends to feel stiff and dated. Instead, we want everyone coordinated in a way that allows each person to stand out on their own while still looking beautiful together.
Think of your outfits as different pieces of the same puzzle. Similar tones, complementary textures, and a shared color palette without being identical.
For example:
Mom in a cream flowy dress
Dad in dark denim and a neutral shirt
Kids in soft beige, muted blue, or subtle pattern
Everyone looks intentional. Everyone looks like themselves. And together it all flows.
Patterns Are Not the Enemy
Patterns can be absolutely stunning when done correctly. The key is balance.
If mom is wearing a gorgeous flowy sundress with a floral or textured pattern, keep everyone else a little more simple. A patterned dress paired with solid colors on the rest of the family creates visual interest without overwhelming the photo.
Florals
Soft stripes
Subtle textures
These all photograph beautifully, especially when paired with neutral tones.
Styling for Men Without Overthinking It
Men’s outfits do not need to be complicated. Simple and classic always wins.
A go to look I love:
Dark denim jeans
A plain neutral shirt or soft button up
White tennis shoes, boots, or loafers
If the season is a little cooler, layering is your best friend.
A sweater
A light jacket
A textured knit
Layers add depth and dimension to photos and also make outfits feel more elevated without trying too hard.
Dressing for the Season Matters
Your outfit should always make sense for the season we are in. Not just for comfort, but for how the photos feel visually.
Spring and Summer:
Lightweight fabrics
Flowy dresses
Soft colors
Bare feet or sandals if the setting allows
Fall:
Warmer neutrals
Rust, camel, olive, deep beige
Sweaters, boots, textured layers
Winter:
Creams, grays, deep browns
Knits, coats, scarves
Layers that add warmth and interest
Wearing season appropriate clothing makes your photos feel natural and grounded instead of forced.
Fabric and Fit Make a Huge Difference
Flowy fabrics move beautifully in photos. They create softness and movement that photographs incredibly well, especially for maternity and motherhood sessions.
Avoid anything too tight, overly structured, or uncomfortable. If you are constantly adjusting it, it will show in your body language.
Choose clothing you can move in, sit in, hug in, and laugh in.
Shoes Matter More Than You Think
Shoes can make or break an outfit.
Stick to:
Neutral tones
Simple styles
Minimal logos
White tennis shoes, neutral sandals, boots, or barefoot all photograph beautifully depending on the location. Try to avoid super bright athletic shoes or anything overly trendy that might feel dated later.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, your photos are about connection, emotion, and capturing this season of your life. Your outfits should support that, not distract from it.
Neutrals give you a timeless foundation. Pops of color let your personality shine. Patterns add interest. Layers add depth. And cohesive styling allows everyone to look amazing individually while still looking beautiful together.
If you are ever unsure, I am always here to help. You can send me outfit ideas, screenshots, or questions and I will happily guide you. Styling should feel fun, not stressful.
You show up. I’ll take care of the rest.
