For a family photoshoot in a studio, choose neutral or coordinating colors to create a cohesive look. Soft tones like beige, white, and pastels work well. Avoid busy patterns or logos. Dress in layers for versatility, and ensure everyone feels comfortable in their outfits to allow natural expressions during the shoot.
When planning a family photoshoot in a studio, wardrobe choices are essential for capturing natural, timeless moments.
I will keep things simple here—as it’s mainly about capturing the family bond naturally. Here are some simple tips I’ve found yet impactful to ensure your photos are timeless and beautiful.
9 Expert Tips: What to Wear for a Family Photoshoot in Studio
Tips | Key Advices |
---|---|
Neutral & Muted Colors
|
Use soft tones like whites, grays, and pastels to keep the focus on your family, not the clothes. |
Layers & Textures
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Add depth with layers (e.g., cardigans) and textures (e.g., knits) for subtle elegance in photos. |
Avoid Busy Patterns & Loud Colors
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Stick to subtle prints or solids to prevent distractions and maintain visual harmony. |
Footwear Matters
|
Choose simple, neutral shoes (e.g., flats, boots) or go barefoot for a relaxed vibe. |
Proper Fit
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Ensure clothes fit well—neither too tight nor too loose—for a polished, natural appearance. |
Timeless Over Trendy
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Opt for classic styles that stand the test of time, avoiding trendy outfits that may feel dated. |
Simple Hair & Grooming
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Go for natural, polished hairstyles like loose curls or sleek buns. Keep kids’ styles simple and neat. |
Minimal Accessories
|
Use delicate accessories like small necklaces or watches to enhance without overwhelming. |
Coordinate, Don’t Match
|
Choose complementary colors instead of identical outfits to let each family member’s personality shine. |
1. Choose Neutral and Muted Colors

Photo: artoftheportrait.co.uk
From everything I’ve learned and observed, neutral and muted colors are always a safe bet in studio settings. White, beige, gray, and soft pastel work perfectly because they keep the focus on your family, not the clothes.
For example, if someone wears a bright red outfit, it might dominate the shot and take away from the overall family dynamic. But if you go with softer colors like blues or grays, it brings attention to the emotions and connections in the photo, rather than the wardrobe.
2. Add Layers and Textures for Depth

Photo: instagram.com/smirnova_visual
I love how layers and textures can add dimension to studio photos, especially when the backdrop is simple. A cozy cardigan or a soft scarf can create a little visual interest without overwhelming the shot.
Textures like knits or lace also bring a bit of elegance, but it’s important not to overdo it. The goal is for layers and textures to enhance the photo, not steal the show.
3. Avoid Busy Patterns and Loud Colors

Photo: amykristin.com
Something I’ve always noticed is that busy patterns and loud colors can distract from the main focus of the photo—the people. Instead, I suggest going for subtle prints or solid colors that complement each other.
For example, if someone wears a soft floral print, others can wear solid colors that pick up on some of the tones in the pattern. This way, the outfits work together without creating a cluttered or distracting look.
4. Don’t Forget About Footwear

Photo: thepodphoto.com
It’s easy to forget about shoes, but they’re an important part of the overall look. The wrong footwear can stand out and distract from the photo’s vibe.
I think keeping shoes simple and in line with the outfit’s color palette works best. Neutral-colored flats, boots, or even going barefoot (for a more laid-back feel) can all work well, depending on the style of your shoot.
5. Make Sure Clothes Fit Well

Photo: heartwrittenphotography.com
One thing I’ve noticed in my own experience is how important the fit of your clothes is. Ill-fitting clothes—whether too tight or too loose—can really affect how comfortable and natural you look in photos.
For example, a tight shirt might bunch up awkwardly, while something too baggy can make you look bulkier than you are. The best bet is to wear outfits that fit well so you feel comfortable and confident in front of the camera.
6. Timeless Looks Over Trendy Styles

Photo: stefaniechilds.com
When it comes to family photos, I’m a huge fan of timeless outfits over trendy ones. Classic styles, like simple dresses, button-up shirts, or blouses, tend to hold up well over the years.
Trendy outfits might look great now, but they could feel dated in a few years. Sticking with clean, simple lines ensures your family photos will look elegant and timeless, no matter how long you have them.
7. Keep Hairstyling & Grooming Simple

Photo: jewel-images.com
From what I’ve observed, simple, polished hairstyles often work best for family photos. Something like loose curls or a sleek bun looks natural and elegant, without being too overdone.
For the men, a neat shave or trim always adds a nice touch. And for the kids, I’d suggest keeping their hairstyles natural and relaxed—this way, they still look like themselves in the photos.
8. Accessorize, But Don’t Overdo It

Photo: valwestoverphotography.com
Accessories are a fun way to add some personality, but I’ve learned that it’s best to keep them minimal. A delicate necklace, a simple watch, or matching headbands for the kids can add a nice finishing touch without taking away from the family dynamic.
I’d stay away from large, bold accessories, though. A chunky necklace, for example, might draw more attention than your family’s expressions, and that’s not what you want in these kinds of photos.
9. Coordinate, Don’t Match Exactly

Photo: lifeworksphotography.com.au
One tip I’ve picked up along the way is to coordinate outfits, rather than matching them exactly. When everyone wears the same thing, it can feel a bit forced. But if you choose colors that complement each other, the whole look feels more natural.
For example, instead of everyone wearing the same blue shirt, try mixing shades like gray, navy, or soft greens. This way, each person’s individuality shines through, while the overall look remains harmonious.
3 Common Mistakes to Avoid in Studio Photoshoot Outfits
Even with the best intentions, it’s easy to make simple mistakes that can impact the look of your studio photos. Avoid these common pitfalls to ensure a cohesive and visually appealing result:
- Overly Matching Outfits: While coordinating is key, identical outfits can look too staged or overly planned. Instead, aim for complementary colors and styles that align but aren’t identical. For instance, everyone can wear shades of blue without all choosing the same hue.
- Bright Colors and Busy Patterns: Bright reds, neon greens, and other bold colors tend to reflect off other elements in the studio, creating color casts that can distract from the faces and emotions in the photo. Patterns, especially large or busy ones, can also detract from a cohesive look and make the overall composition feel cluttered.
- Uncomfortable or Ill-Fitting Clothing: Uncomfortable clothing shows up in photos, as family members may fidget or display forced expressions. Choose outfits that fit well and feel comfortable, allowing everyone to relax and enjoy the experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Should Babies Wear for a Family Photoshoot?
Babies should wear soft, comfortable fabrics like cotton in neutral or pastel colors. Avoid tight clothing.
Is It Better to Match or Coordinate Outfits for a Photoshoot?
Coordinate outfits with complementary colors, rather than matching exactly, for a cohesive yet personalized look.
Can Patterns Be Worn in Family Photos?
Subtle patterns, like small florals or plaids, are fine but should be balanced with solid colors to avoid a cluttered look.
What Footwear is Best for a Studio Photoshoot?
Neutral footwear like flats, boots, or even bare feet for a relaxed vibe works best without drawing attention away from the family.
How Should Hair Be Styled for a Family Photoshoot?
Opt for natural, polished styles—loose curls, sleek buns, or neat trims work well. Avoid overly styled looks.
What Accessories Work Best for a Family Photoshoot?
Minimal accessories, like a delicate necklace or headband, work best. Avoid large, bold pieces that distract from the family.
Final Thoughts
What you wear for a family photoshoot really does make a difference in how the photos turn out. Neutral tones, well-fitting outfits, and simple accessories create timeless images that focus on what matters most—your family.
When you feel comfortable and confident in what you’re wearing, it shows. And that’s the key to capturing those special, memorable photos that you’ll cherish for years to come.