Family Portrait Styling

The Golden Rule: Coordinate, Don't Match

The biggest mistake families make? Wearing identical outfits. Matching looks forced and dated. Coordinating looks intentional and timeless.

Think of your family as a color palette, not a uniform. Pick 3-4 colors that work together, and let each person express those colors differently through their outfit choices.

Start with Mom's Outfit

Plan Mom's outfit first. She's typically the hardest to shop for and has the most specific preferences. Once her outfit is set, build everyone else's looks around her color palette.

Matching vs. Coordinating: See the Difference

✓ Coordinated (Timeless)

  • Dad: Navy button-down, khaki pants
  • Mom: Cream dress with rust cardigan
  • Daughter: Floral dress (navy/cream/rust)
  • Son: White shirt, navy vest, khaki shorts

Why it works: Colors complement each other, but each person has their own style.

✗ Matching (Dated)

  • Everyone: White shirt, blue jeans
  • Everyone: Matching plaid shirts
  • Everyone: Identical colors/styles

Why it fails: Looks like a uniform. No personality. Photos feel stiff and dated.

Choosing Your Color Palette

Pick 3-4 colors that work together. Everyone wears some combination of those colors. Here are proven combinations that photograph beautifully.

Classic Earth Tones (Our Most Popular)

Camel/Tan
Charcoal
Cream
Rust

Best for: Fall photos, outdoor sessions, rustic locations.

Timeless Navy & Neutrals

Navy
White
Tan
Slate Blue

Best for: Year-round sessions, formal portraits, timeless look.

Soft & Romantic

Cream
Beige
Taupe
Dusty Rose

Best for: Spring/summer sessions, bright locations, beach photos.

Film Photography Color Tip

If you're shooting on traditional film, choose muted, natural colors from these palettes. Film adds saturation naturally, so colors that look slightly understated in person will appear rich and beautiful in photos.

Avoid neon or overly bright colors — they can oversaturate on film and look jarring.

Family in coordinated earth tone outfits

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Earth tones create warm, timeless family portraits

Age-Specific Styling Tips

Different ages have different needs. Here's how to dress everyone from babies to grandparents.

Babies & Toddlers (0-3 years)

  • Comfort is everything. Avoid scratchy fabrics, tight waistbands, restrictive clothing.
  • Bring backups. Pack 2-3 outfit options for inevitable spills.
  • Simple is best. Solid onesies, simple dresses, soft fabrics.
  • Bare feet are adorable. Don't stress about baby shoes.
  • Timing is crucial. Schedule around naps and feeding times.
  • Layers work well. Easy to add or remove as needed.
Happy baby in simple outfit

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Simple, comfortable clothing keeps babies happy during sessions

Young Kids (4-10 years)

  • Movement matters. Choose clothes they can run and play in.
  • Test at home. 30-minute trial prevents session-day complaints.
  • Layers add interest. Vests, cardigans create visual depth.
  • Avoid character clothing. No logos, Disney, or sports brands.
  • Shoes optional. Barefoot outdoors works great.
  • Give them choice. Let them pick between approved options.
Children in coordinated outfits playing outdoors

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Coordinated colors with freedom to move and play

Tweens & Teens (11-17 years)

  • Involve them in planning. Their buy-in = genuine smiles.
  • Age-appropriate styling. Not too grown-up, not too childish.
  • Accessories work. Hats, scarves, jewelry express personality.
  • Avoid fast-fashion trends. Classic styles age better in photos.
  • Haircut timing. 1-2 weeks before, not day-of.
  • Natural makeup. Light and fresh for girls who wear it.

Adults (Parents)

  • Start with Mom's outfit. Sets the palette for everyone.
  • Fit is crucial. Tailored beats trendy every time.
  • Layers add sophistication. Blazers, scarves, vests.
  • Long sleeves often better. More flattering and timeless.
  • Consider poses. Can you move comfortably?
  • Break in new clothes. Wear once before the session.
Parents with children in coordinated outfits

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Parents set the color palette — everyone coordinates around them

Grandparents

  • Comfort first. They should feel like themselves.
  • Classic never fails. Solid colors, timeless styles.
  • Layers are forgiving. Cardigans, shawls photograph beautifully.
  • Accessories add personality. Favorite jewelry, glasses, scarves.
  • Coordinate, don't force. Close enough works fine.

Pre-Session Checklist

Preparation makes the difference between good photos and great photos.

Family preparing for photo session together

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Pack These Essentials

  • Lint roller
  • Safety pins
  • Hair brush/comb
  • Makeup for touch-ups
  • Mirror
  • Snacks & water
  • Baby wipes
  • Backup outfit

Timeline

2-3 Weeks Before:

  • Plan color palette
  • Shop if needed

1 Week Before:

  • Try on ALL outfits together
  • Take phone photo — does it look good?
  • Get alterations if needed

Day Before:

  • Iron everything
  • Lay out all outfits
  • Pack essentials bag

Top 5 Family Photo Mistakes

Happy family laughing together outdoors

Stock photo

❌ Mistake #1: Waiting Until the Last Minute

Do instead: Plan outfits 2-3 weeks before your session.

❌ Mistake #2: Everyone Wearing Matching Outfits

Do instead: Coordinate 3-4 colors. Let each person express them differently.

❌ Mistake #3: Too Many Patterns

Do instead: Limit patterns to one person. Everyone else wears solids.

❌ Mistake #4: Ignoring Comfort

Do instead: Test outfits at home. Comfort shows in photos.

❌ Mistake #5: Forgetting About Shoes

Do instead: Clean shoes that coordinate. Or go barefoot!

Final Pro Tips

The Phone Photo Test

One week before, dress everyone and take a phone photo. Does it look coordinated? This simple test catches problems early.

Need Help? Just Ask!

Text us photos of your outfit options! Styling help is included with every booking.

(319) 408-8181

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