"What should we wear?"
This is One of the most common questions I receive before a family session:
The good news is that choosing outfits doesn't have to be stressful. The right clothing helps create timeless photographs that you'll love for years to come.
Whether you're planning spring blossoms, summer sunsets, colorful fall leaves, or cozy winter portraits, these tips will help your family look coordinated without looking overly matched.
Start with a Color Palette
Instead of everyone wearing the exact same outfit or color, choose 2–4 complementary colors and build everyone's wardrobe around them.
Some of my favorite combinations include:
-Cream, tan, sage green, and soft blue
-Rust, cream, olive, and denim
-Navy, blush, gray, and white
-Dusty blue, beige, and soft brown
These colors photograph beautifully in Utah's natural landscapes and keep the focus on your family's connection rather than busy clothing.
Dress for the Season
🌸 Spring
Spring is perfect for soft colors
and light fabrics.
Think Pastels:
-Sage green
-Blush pink
-Cream
-Light blue
-Lavender
Flowy dresses pair beautifully with blooming flowers and fresh green landscapes.
☀️ Summer
Utah summers are bright and warm.
Choose breathable fabrics like cotton or linen and lighter colors that reflect the sunshine.
Favorites include:
-White
-Soft blue
-Tan
-Olive
-Light floral prints
Wearing dresses, shorts and light button up shirts will help keep you cool.
🍂 Fall
Warm tones complement Utah's colorful leaves beautifully.
Some favorite colors include:
-Rust
-Mustard
-Forest green
-Burgundy
-Camel
-Cream
Layering with sweaters, scarves, or jackets also adds beautiful texture to your photos. Boots add that little bit of something extra.
❄️ Winter
Winter sessions create a cozy, elegant look.
Try pairing:
-Cream sweaters
-Pea Coats
-Gray
-Navy
-Deep green
-Burgundy
-Brown
Avoid short sleeves. You will be cold. No heavy logos or bright neon colors that can distract from your family's expressions.
Coordinate—Don't Match
Years ago, everyone wore white shirts and blue jeans.
Today, family photography is much more natural.
Instead of matching exactly, coordinate colors and textures while allowing each family member's personality to shine.
The result is a timeless, polished look that still feels authentic.
Add Texture
Texture photographs beautifully.
Knit sweaters
Linen dresses
Denim jackets
Lace details
Corduroy
Wool coats
What to Avoid
To keep your photos looking timeless, I recommend avoiding:
Large logos
Neon colors
Busy patterns
Athletic clothing
Characters or graphic T-shirts
Bright white tennis shoes (unless they fit the style)
Simple, classic clothing allows the focus to stay where it belongs—on your family.
Don't Forget the Shoes!
Shoes are easy to overlook, but they make a big difference.
Neutral boots, sandals, loafers, or clean dress shoes usually photograph much better than athletic sneakers.
My Favorite Tip
Choose Mom's outfit first.
Once Mom has found something she feels confident and comfortable wearing, it's much easier to coordinate everyone else around her outfit.
When Mom feels beautiful and confident, it shows in every photograph.
One of my favorite parts of planning your session is helping with outfit coordination.
I'm Here to Help
If you're ever unsure about what to wear, send me photos of your outfit ideas! I'm always happy to help you choose colors, coordinate your family's clothing, and make sure everything photographs beautifully.
My goal is to make the entire experience as stress-free and enjoyable as possible—from planning your outfits to delivering your finished gallery.
I can't wait to help tell your family's story.
— Jen