Choosing the Right Outfits for Your Family Photography

Booking a professional family photoshoot is an exciting step toward capturing lasting memories. Whether you're marking a special milestone, celebrating a growing family, or simply documenting the present moment, these photographs become cherished keepsakes for years to come. At David DuPuy Studios, we understand that great family photography is about more than just posing in front of a camera—it's about comfort, connection, and storytelling. And one of the most impactful ways to tell your story visually? What you wear.

Outfit choices play a critical role in setting the tone and aesthetic of your photos. Selecting the right clothing ensures that your images feel cohesive, timeless, and authentically you. From choosing the best fabrics to creating a complementary color palette, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to prepare for your family photo shoot.

Why Outfits Matter in Family Photography

When families book a session with a NYC family photographer, they often ask: What should we wear? It’s a valid question—because wardrobe is not just about looking good. It’s about expressing who you are, aligning with the location and season, and enhancing the emotional resonance of each photo.

Imagine walking into a beautifully lit family photos studio. The environment is set, the camera is ready, and your family is excited. Now imagine the photo afterward: not only are your smiles genuine, but your clothing choices complement each other so well that the whole image feels polished and full of life. That’s the goal.

Outfits are not the centerpiece of a photo—but they are the frame. And choosing the right frame can make all the difference.

Start with Comfort and Fit

The foundation of a successful outfit is comfort. Regardless of how stylish a piece may look, if it doesn’t feel good, it won’t photograph well. Kids who are fussing with itchy collars or adults adjusting tight sleeves can easily look distracted.

We recommend choosing breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, or jersey—especially for shoots involving children. During outdoor family photo shooting sessions in NYC’s parks or urban streets, these materials allow for easy movement and natural interaction.

And don’t forget footwear. Shoes should be clean, well-fitted, and in line with your overall aesthetic. Even if they don’t show up in every photo, the confidence that comes from feeling fully dressed translates clearly through the lens.

Aim for Coordination, Not Matching

Matching outfits may have been the go-to for older family portraits, but modern family photography favors a more personalized and elevated approach. Instead of everyone wearing the same shirt or exact color, opt for coordination.

Start by picking a palette—three to four colors that complement each other. For example, earthy tones like terracotta, soft gray, and muted blue work well for fall, while creams, light green, and soft pastels are ideal for spring sessions.

Once you have a base palette, let each family member wear something within that range. This gives everyone the chance to reflect their personal style while maintaining a cohesive look.

If you're working with a family photographer, feel free to send them your planned outfits ahead of time. At David DuPuy Studios, we’re always happy to provide feedback on colors and styling to ensure the best visual outcome.

Seasonal Style Inspiration

One of the first things to consider when planning a family photo shoot is the season in which it will take place. Each season brings its own colors, textures, and moods—making it easier to style your wardrobe accordingly.

Spring and Summer

Think flowy dresses, linen shirts, and soft hues like blush pink, sky blue, and beige. These colors reflect the freshness of the season and photograph beautifully against blooming landscapes or sunny city streets.

Autumn

This is a perfect time to embrace rich tones like rust, mustard, olive green, and burgundy. Layers such as scarves, cardigans, and boots add warmth and depth to your outfits—perfect for capturing cozy family moments during outdoor sessions.

Winter

Cold weather calls for layered textures: wool, corduroy, or knit fabrics paired with neutral or jewel-toned clothing. A snowy backdrop paired with deep navy, forest green, or charcoal gray creates a timeless winter aesthetic that’s both classic and stylish.

Layers Add Visual Interest

Whether you're indoors or outdoors, layering is a great way to add dimension and variety to your outfits. It allows for quick changes during your session and creates visual texture, especially in group shots.

A mother might start with a dress and cardigan, while a child wears a button-down shirt with a vest. Layers can be removed or adjusted throughout the shoot, providing variety without a full wardrobe change.

Layering also helps during those unpredictable NYC weather shifts. For example, our clients who book maternity sessions with a maternity photographer in NYC often layer with scarves or outerwear to add elegance and warmth to the portraits.

Choosing a Color Palette for Family Photos

Color is a silent narrator in your photo story. It sets the mood, evokes emotion, and helps guide the viewer’s eye. Here are three popular palettes we often suggest for professional family photoshoots:

1. Neutrals

Timeless and elegant, shades like white, beige, taupe, and soft gray bring attention to the faces and emotions in the frame. These are perfect for indoor studio sessions or beach scenes with a minimalist look.

2. Earth Tones

Perfect for outdoor shoots, earthy shades like clay, moss green, and mustard yellow harmonize beautifully with nature. They also add warmth and depth to the composition, especially during golden hour.

3. Jewel Tones

Looking for drama and vibrancy? Deep hues like sapphire, maroon, and emerald pop against urban or rustic backdrops. These colors are especially effective for indoor family photos studio sessions where controlled lighting highlights rich tones.

Whatever palette you choose, consistency is key. Balance is essential—if someone wears a bold color or pattern, others should dress in more subdued, solid tones to maintain visual harmony.

Tips for Preparing the Whole Family

Planning your wardrobe doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Here are practical steps to make the process smooth and collaborative:

Involve Everyone

Let each family member give input. Kids are more likely to wear something confidently if they helped pick it. Adults, too, will feel better when they’re not forced into a look that feels out of character.

Try on in Advance

Don’t wait until the day of the shoot. Have a mini dress rehearsal a few days ahead. Check for fit, comfort, and coordination. If you’re planning to visit a family photographer NYC based, it's especially important to factor in commute and time constraints.

Limit Logos and Graphics

Avoid clothes with large logos, text, or distracting patterns. These can pull attention away from the people in the photo, especially in high-resolution professional images.

Reflect Your Family’s Personality

Your photos should look like you—not a catalog. Whether you’re a denim-and-boots family or prefer polished attire, lean into your style. Authenticity is what makes family portraits resonate.

Choosing the Right Photographer Matters

Just as important as your wardrobe is your choice of photographer. A great professional family photoshoot experience involves more than technical skill—it requires someone who understands how to make you feel at ease, guide you with confidence, and help bring out natural moments.

At David DuPuy Studios, we specialize in capturing the emotion, energy, and character of your family. Whether you're scheduling a holiday session, a birthday celebration, or a session with a maternity photographer in NYC, our goal is to provide timeless photos that feel deeply personal.

We’re also proud to be one of the most trusted options when people search for a family photographer near me or a top-rated NYC family photographer. From wardrobe consultation to post-editing, every step is designed to provide a relaxed, thoughtful experience.

Final Thoughts

Your family photos are not just images—they’re memories frozen in time. And what you wear plays an essential part in making those memories come alive. When planned well, clothing becomes an invisible thread tying the session together with elegance and emotion.

Choose outfits that are comfortable, coordinated, and true to your family’s style. Work with a professional who values both the artistry and authenticity of photography. And most importantly, enjoy the process—it’s all part of the story you’re telling.

At David DuPuy Studios, we’re honored to help you tell that story with clarity, care, and creativity.

Ready to plan your next family photoshoot? Let’s make memories that feel as beautiful as they look.