What to Wear for a Family Photoshoot: A Guide to Looking Great & Feeling Comfortable
One of the most common questions I get as a natural family photographer is: “What should we wear?” It makes total sense. You want to look your best, feel comfortable, and ensure the images you hang on your wall won’t date faster than you can say “2024 trend forecast.”
So here’s a guide that keeps things simple, relaxed and totally in tune with the kind of emotive, unscripted family portraits we love to create.
Think Timeless, Not Trendy
Clothing can make a massive difference in how your images feel. We’re aiming for natural, documentary-style images with a soft, warm feel. That means avoiding logos, loud patterns or anything too tight or fussy.
Do:
- Stick to neutral tones or earthy colours (think: cream, beige, rust, navy, soft pastels)
- Coordinate but don’t match (everyone in jeans and a white shirt? That’s a no from us)
- Think layers and textures – cardigans, denim, cotton, knits
Avoid:
- Neon colours or busy prints
- Big logos, slogans or characters (trust me, you’ll regret the Paw Patrol t-shirt)
- Stiff or uncomfortable clothing – kids need to move freely
Ready to book your relaxed, natural family session?
Dress for the Setting (and the Season)
If we’re heading to a forest, beach, meadow or one of Dorset’s beautiful locations, your outfits should feel at home there. Linen dresses, rolled up sleeves, boots or barefoot in summer all feel wonderfully connected to nature.
Summer: Lightweight dresses, shorts, short-sleeve shirts, sandals or bare feet
Autumn: Layers, jumpers, boots, earthy tones (burnt orange, forest green, mustard)
Winter: Coats, woolly hats, scarves – bundle up! Cold, grumpy kids don’t make for joyful photos
Spring: Mix of light layers, pastel tones, floral dresses, cardis and trainers
Let Kids Be Kids
You want them comfy and free to run, climb and be their wonderfully unfiltered selves. If they hate what they’re wearing, you’ll see it in every photo.
If your little one insists on wearing their superhero cape or favourite tutu, don’t stress. Sometimes, it becomes part of the magic.
Outfit Planning Tips
- Lay everything out in advance to see how it all flows together
- Start with one person’s outfit (usually mum) and build from there
- Bring a spare outfit for little ones (accidents happen)
- Check the weather and dress accordingly
Life moves fast. Let’s slow it down—just for a moment.
Book your natural family session in Dorset and walk away with images that truly mean something.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the best thing you can wear is something you feel good in. The goal isn’t to look perfect – it’s to feel connected. To laugh, move, and be present with the people you love.
If you’re unsure, send over some outfit ideas – I’m always happy to offer feedback.
You can find more helpful advice and inspiration on our family portrait photographer page, where we cover everything from styling tips to session locations.
