What to Wear for Family Photos: Stress-Free Style Guide for Families in Austin, TX

You’ve booked your family photos (yay!)… but now comes the part that stresses most families out: what to wear. I get it, coordinating outfits for the whole crew can feel like herding cats while juggling Pinterest boards. But here’s the thing: it doesn’t have to be overwhelming.

With a few simple tricks, you can pull together outfits that look amazing on camera, feel comfortable in real life, and actually make you excited to see the photos hanging on your walls. As a lifestyle family photographer here in Austin, I’ve walked dozens of families through this exact struggle, and I’m here to make it so much easier for you.

1. Mom’s Outfit Sets the Tone

Here’s my number one tip: Mom, pick your outfit first.

You’re often the one behind the camera, capturing all the little everyday moments of your family. But this time? It’s your turn to shine. You deserve to feel beautiful, confident, and celebrated in your family photos.

When you wear something you genuinely love—something that flatters you, feels comfortable, and makes you light up—it changes the whole vibe of the shoot. Your confidence sets the tone for the entire family, and everyone else’s outfits can easily be built around yours.

So start with you. Find that flowy dress you adore, or that cozy sweater that feels like you. Once you’re feeling great, we can coordinate dad and the kids around your look. Trust me, when you feel beautiful, it shows in every single photo.

2. Choose a Color Palette (Not Matching Outfits)

Gone are the days of everyone in matching polos and jeans. Instead, think in terms of palettes.

• Pick 2–3 main colors and let each family member’s outfit pull from them.
• Mix soft neutrals (cream, tan, gray) with one or two accent tones (rust, sage, navy).
• Keep it natural—nothing too bright or neon.

✨ Bonus tip: Lay all the outfits out on the bed together. If it looks good in real life, it’ll look good on camera.

3. Dress for Comfort and Movement

Family sessions aren’t about standing stiff with forced smiles—we’re going to be running, cuddling, tickling, and maybe chasing little ones. Choose clothes that move with you.

• Flowy skirts, comfy jeans, and breathable fabrics.
• Shoes you can actually walk in.
• Layers like cardigans or scarves to add flexibility and interest.

4. Coordinate, Don’t Copy

Think compliment, not copy.

• Mix textures—linen, denim, knits.
• Let one person wear a subtle pattern, while the rest stay in solids.
• Use different shades of the same tone for depth (light blue, dusty blue, navy).

5. Don’t Forget the Details

It’s always the little things that make or break an outfit.

• Shoes matter. Stick with neutral, classic styles that don’t distract—think simple sandals, boots, or slip-ons. Avoid overly bright or bulky footwear that pulls focus.
• Keep accessories minimal but intentional. A cozy scarf, a hat, or a sweet hair bow can add personality without being distracting.
• Say no to loud logos and characters. Skip the cartoon tees and big brand logos—your family’s connection should be the star, not what’s printed on a shirt.

6. Let Kids Be Kids

If your toddler is happiest in soft leggings instead of stiff khakis—go with it. A happy kid in a comfy outfit photographs better than a cranky one in something “picture-perfect.”

7. Be Yourself

At the end of the day, the best photos are the ones where your family feels like your family. If you’re not a “formal dress” kind of crew, don’t force it. Wear what feels authentic and comfortable—you’ll love your photos so much more when they feel true to you.

Family photos are about connection, joy, and the little in-between moments—not about having perfectly matching outfits. With a few thoughtful choices, you’ll have looks that feel like you and let your family’s personality shine through.