Do you worry about what to wear to your family photo session? Really it boils down to whatever makes you happy and what you feel comfortable in, but here are some tips I tell my clients to help them narrow it down.

A family photo session is a great reason to dress up and get a bit fancy. Go a bit bigger in your outfit choice than you normally would. Get your hair, makeup or lashes done. Maybe all three! You might want to add some accessories like statement jewelry or a hat to bring interest to the photo.

For the ladies, I suggest flowy dresses or skirts. These provide a sense of movement to the photos, and also give you something to hold on to during the shoot. 

For the boys, layers look amazing. You can be as dressed up as you like. You can wear anything from a sweater over an undershirt to a three piece suit. Layers even make a casual outfit look more put together. 

You will see a lot of images on Pinterest of families with matching outfits. For example, the white shirt and khakis on the beach. It is best to avoid matchy matchy outfits. Choose 2-3 colors for the family and mix and match. Try not to put more than two family members in the same color or pattern. Avoid bright colors or bold patterns. Patterns can work nice for a spring style senior session with only one person in the photo, but tends to be overwhelming in a group photo. Bright colors can cause odd colors to be cast on the skin making your skin tone look a bit off. 

What is the number one rule? Be comfortable and confident. Like what you are wearing. If you only feel comfortable in cut off jean shorts, rock those jorts! If your son refuses to wear anything but his Paw Patrol t-shirt, throw on a jacket and let him be. If your daughter wants to twirl in your princess dress, fantastic! In the end, family photos are to capture this fleeting time in your life. You will look back and smile as you remember them and what they enjoyed when they were little.