Let’s be real, family photos are stressful enough without the whole what do we even wear? dilemma. Between coordinating colors and choosing a location, there’s a lot to think about. Luckily, I’ve got you. Here’s your foolproof guide to nailing family photo vibes that feel natural and timeless (aka not the ones you’ll cringe at in 10 years).
Step 1: Family Photo Outfit Ideas that Actually Work
When it comes to family photos, simplicity always wins. Skip the busy prints, skip the neon, and definitely skip anything that screams trend of the week. Neutral colors and softer tones photograph best, keeping the focus on your people, not clashing outfits.
Outfit Inspo You Can Steal:
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Outfit 1: Pradera gingham maxi dress, cream cardigan, light boots (a little prairie chic moment without trying too hard)
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Outfit 2: Isla white maxi skirt, brown sweater, brown pull-on boots (effortless, earthy, and easy to repeat later IRL)
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Outfit 3: Oversized jean shirt, Aspen wide-leg linen pants, brown boots (cool, casual, and layered for texture)
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Outfit 4: Juneau sweater in Fawn, Meadow gingham wide-leg pants, cream boots (subtle pattern mixing done right)
Pro tip: coordinate, don’t match. Everyone in the same shirt screams awkward 2000s mall studio photo. Instead, think color family- different textures, layers, and shades that feel cohesive without being identical. We recommend getting one outfit picked first (no shame in starting with your own) and then building the rest of the family around that outfit.
Step 2: Pick a Color Scheme
Color is the secret sauce of family photos. The right tones bring everything together effortlessly. Think about the location you’ll be shooting in (more on that later) and try to find colors that compliment the space, not clash. Here are some family photo color schemes:
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Cream + Navy: A polished combo that feels timeless and elevated without trying too hard.
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Earth Tones: Think soft greens, browns, creams, and taupes. Grounded, cozy, and flattering against almost any backdrop.
If in doubt, stick to muted or neutral shades and let accessories (like boots or layered knits) add personality. Remember to think about balance as your picking outfits- if someone has a darker top, pair it with lighter colored bottoms and do the opposite for the next outfit.
Step 3: Find Your Location
The background sets the mood, so choose a spot that feels like you.
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Flower fields for that whimsical, romantic vibe
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Mountains or trees for an earthy, grounded look
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Meadow or lake if you want something calm and dreamy
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Beach for laid-back, breezy energy
What to keep in mind:
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Look for soft, natural light (shade is your friend)
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Avoid crowded areas (nothing ruins the shot faster than random photobombers)
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Scout ahead if possible, so you’re not scrambling the day-of
Step 4: Timing Is Everything
Lighting can make or break your photos. The golden rule? Golden Hour. That dreamy, soft light about an hour after sunrise or an hour before sunset will do wonders for your skin, your outfits, and the overall vibe of the shoot. Midday sun = harsh shadows and squinty faces. Don’t do it.
Now Go Capture Some Memories
The best family photos feel effortless, like a moment captured instead of a production. Stick to neutral tones, pick a location that feels like home, and time it for that dreamy golden glow. Add in some perfectly layered Altair fits, and you’re guaranteed photos that will age as well as you do.
