What to Wear for Your Family Photo Session (with Color Palette Tips!
You’ve booked your family photo session — now comes the big question: What should we wear?! As a family photographer in Sugar Land, TX, this is one of the most common questions I get, and I’m here to help take the guesswork out of it.
In this guide, you’ll find tips on how to dress your family so everyone looks great, feels comfortable, and blends beautifully with your session's setting. Plus, I’ve included color palette ideas to help you coordinate like a pro — whether you're shooting in-studio or outdoors.
1. Dress for Comfort & Confidence
First and foremost, you want everyone to feel good in what they're wearing.
Choose clothes that fit well (avoid anything too tight or too loose)
Avoid itchy fabrics or tags for little ones
Bring backup options for kids (accidents happen!)
When your family feels confident and comfortable, it shows in the photos.
2. Coordinate — Don't Match
Gone are the days of all-white shirts and jeans. Instead, aim for a cohesive color palette with complementary tones.
Tips:
Choose 2–3 main colors and 1–2 neutrals
Mix textures like knits, denim, linen, or lace
Layer with cardigans, scarves, or hats for added visual interest
This approach gives everyone individuality while maintaining a unified look.
3. Choose the Right Color Palette for Your Session Setting
For Sessions that are full of Greens, Fields, or Wooded Areas:
Soft neutrals, earth tones, muted pastels
Color palette: sage green, soft cream, warm beige, dusty rose, denim blue, yellows, rust and dark browns
Avoid neon or bright primary colors — they can clash with natural surroundings
For Studio Sessions (Neutral Backdrops):
Warm whites, taupe, dusty blue, soft blush, charcoal gray
Focus on timeless, clean tones that flatter skin tones
Avoid patterns that are too busy or branded logos
For Golden Hour Sessions (Sunset Light):
Warm earth tones like rust, mustard, olive, and soft browns
These tones enhance the glow of golden light and create rich, emotive images
4. Dress Mom First — Then Build Around Her Outfit
Let’s be honest — moms are usually the ones organizing the session. Choose something you feel amazing in, then build the family’s outfits around your color and style.
Consider dresses with flow or texture, or layered looks like a blouse and maxi skirt. Add in neutral pieces for the rest of the family to complement your tones. I also have a client closet to choose from if you would like to use one of my dresses.
5. What to Avoid
Loud logos, graphic tees, or cartoon prints
Overly matching outfits (everyone in the same exact color)
Trendy prints that may date the photos quickly
6. Where to Shop for Family Photo Outfits
Some of my go-to recommendations:
Zara Kids – for soft tones and stylish basics
H&M, Old Navy, Target – for budget-friendly family options
Baltic Born, Nothing Fits But, Free People – great for mom’s dresses
Etsy – for handmade bows, knits, and accessories
Bonus: My Client Closet
At Sage & Willow Photography, I offer a curated client wardrobe for moms. With flowing dresses in neutral tones, I take the stress out of outfit planning so you can focus on your family.
Ask me about it during your booking!
Ready to Book Your Family Session?
I specialize in capturing heartfelt, relaxed family sessions in Sugar Land, Houston, and surrounding areas. Whether you're envisioning a cozy studio session or a golden-hour field adventure, I'm here to guide you every step of the way — from outfits to posing to wall-worthy prints.
Contact me here to plan your family session today!
Family Session in Sugar Land, TX
