What to Wear for a Family Photoshoot: Your Guide

So you’ve booked the photoshoot (yay!) but now you’re staring into your wardrobe thinking… what on earth do we wear? Don’t worry, this guide is here to take the guesswork out of it. Because when it comes to family photo outfit ideas, the goal is simple: you want to feel like you (on your best day), look cohesive (but not like a cult), and be comfy enough to cuddle, play and chase after the toddler who always runs off at the exact wrong moment.

Here’s everything you need to know about choosing the perfect outfits for your family photoshoot, without overthinking it. Because trust me, you’ll love your photos so much more if you’re not stuck in jeans that dig in or worrying about your kid’s itchy shirt.

Start With the Vibe

Before you even think about outfits, ask yourself: what’s the vibe?

Do you want relaxed and beachy? Soft and romantic in the long grass? A polished city shoot with a bit of edge? Or maybe barefoot at home with coffee and chaos? it’s good to have a sense of the overall look you’re going for.

Once you know the vibe, your outfits can help tell the story. A neutral-toned linen dress feels right at home in a field at golden hour, but might look a bit random in an inner-city alleyway.

Colour Palette is Everything

Let’s be real: matching outfits are out. What you want instead is a colour palette. Think tones that complement each other rather than everyone wearing the exact same shirt.

Keep in mind:

• Soft neutrals, earthy tones, and pastels photograph beautifully.
• Rich jewel tones can be stunning, especially in cooler months.
• Avoid neon, harsh blacks and busy logos (they draw the eye away from faces).
• If you’re stuck, start with one person’s outfit (usually Mum) and build the palette from there.

Dress for Comfort & Movement

Your photoshoot isn’t a red carpet event. You’ll be moving, cuddling, tickling kids, sitting on grass, and possibly wrangling a meltdown over the wrong snack. Wear clothes you can live in, not just pose in.

• Choose clothes that allow for sitting, bending and hugging.
• Soft, breathable fabrics like cotton, linen and knit are ideal.
• No one (including your toddler) wants to be adjusting stiff collars or scratchy seams.
• Break in new shoes before the day. Blisters aren’t cute.

Layers, Textures and Details

The secret sauce to beautiful family photos? Texture and layers.

• Add dimension with light layers: denim jackets, cardigans, scarves.
• Mix textures: think linen with denim, soft knits with cotton.
• Avoid anything overly shiny or synthetic – natural textures always win on camera.
• Small details like jewellery, hats, or even socks that peek out can make a big difference.

Outfits for Every Family Member

Mums:

This is your moment, so wear something that makes you feel confident and beautiful. Flowy dresses, mid-length skirts or relaxed jumpsuits work a treat. Avoid strapless (they can be annoying to pull up constantly), super short hems, or anything you’re going to fidget with all day.

Dads or partners:

Chinos or tailored shorts with a button-up or neutral tee works well. Avoid activewear, anything with giant logos, and thongs (unless it’s a beach shoot, and even then… maybe barefoot is better).

Kids:

Comfort is queen. Soft fabrics, stretchy waistbands, and no new clothes that haven’t been worn before. You want your child looking happy, not stiff or itchy.

Babies:

Rompers, bloomers, wraps or a soft knit jumper. Avoid clothes with too much bulk or bibs that cover their cute little faces.

Common Outfit Mistakes

It happens to the best of us. But here’s what to steer clear of:

• Everyone wearing jeans and white tees. It’s giving early 2000s department store catalogue.
• Too many patterns or clashing prints.
• Shirts or tops with big logos… yes Dads I am talking to you.
• All-black outfits as they can make you blend into the background and it is a bit dated.
• Leaving outfit decisions until the night before.
• Brand-new clothes you’ve never worn – you want to know how everything feels on your body.

Want to Make it Extra Special? Do Something Together

One of the absolute best ways to bring your family photos to life is by incorporating a simple activity you love doing together. Not only does it give everyone something to do with their hands (hello, awkward dad stance), but it also captures your family dynamic in the most natural, joy-filled way.

Think of it as capturing your family in your element — the stuff that feels most like you.

A few family photoshoot activity ideas:

• Picnic at the park – Pack your favourite snacks, a cosy rug, and let the kids run wild while you sip a coffee and have a giggle.
• Beach play – Barefoot splashing, rock collecting, building sandcastles. Not a single forced smile in sight.
• Baking at home – Matching aprons, flour-dusted noses, licking the spoon – yes please.
• Watering the veggie patch – Especially good with little ones who love mud, boots and watering cans.
• Kicking a footy or playing backyard cricket – These ones bring out the big laughs and show off everyone’s personalities.
• Reading books together under a blanket – Sweet, simple, and perfect for calmer, snuggly moments.
• Feeding the ducks, flying a kite, climbing a tree, blowing bubbles – Anything that gets everyone moving and interacting, instead of just standing and smiling at the camera.

Why it works:

• Kids stay engaged longer (and have more fun)
• The smiles are real
• The movement creates magic – hair flying, wind in clothes, laughter in motion
• It takes the pressure off being “photo ready” every second

Let your photographer know in advance if there’s something meaningful you’d like to include. And don’t overthink it – even making pancakes or hanging laundry with little hands helping can become a treasured moment on camera.

Because the best family photos aren’t just about looking good – they’re about remembering how it felt to be together in that season of life.

Final Tips Before You Head Out

• Do a full try-on a few days before (no surprises!).
• Iron or steam everything the day before and hang it up ready to go.
• Pack a bag with snacks, wipes, a change of clothes for little ones, and anything else you might need mid-shoot.
• Bring a neutral-coloured picnic rug or blanket if you’re doing outdoor photos – it doubles as a great prop.
• Kids favourite toy and food to keep them happy and comfortable.
• And finally: relax. Your smile and positive attitude is your best accessory (sorry, had to say it).

Your Family, Your Story, Your Style

At the end of the day, the best outfit is the one that lets you laugh, hug and be completely present with your family. These photos are about connection, not perfection. So my final piece of advice is to wear whatever makes you comfortable and happy in.