The ultimate guide: what to wear for your family photoshoot

If you’ve booked your family photoshoot (yay!) and now find yourself staring at your wardrobe in mild panic, you’re not alone. “What should we wear to our family photoshoot?” is easily one of my most frequently asked questions, so I’ve popped together my ultimate guide to planning outfits that photograph well.

Choosing what to wear can feel like quite a big decision - I mean, it is a commitment, because your photos will be on your wall and in your albums for years to come! But before you read on, remember that it’s less about matching perfectly, and more about feeling comfortable (and like yourselves!). So don’t stress, grab a cuppa, take a look through your wardrobe and get planning!

Tip number one: Choose outfits you love (and feel confident in!)
The golden rule, in my personal opinion! You could be in the most Pinterest-worthy outfit on earth, but if you’re tugging at it all shoot long, or you don’t like the way you feel in it, it’ll show. Pick clothes you feel really good in. Something that fits well, moves easily, gives you a confidence boost and makes you feel like your best self. You don’t need to buy a whole new wardrobe; sometimes your favourite pair of jeans and a soft linen shirt are all you need.

Tip number two: Pick your tones (but don’t be scared of adding colour)
Neutrals are timeless, for sure, but that doesn’t mean you have to live in beige. Try mixing soft neutral tones with pops of warmth or contrast. I generally recommend starting with one or two base colours and build from there.

Some winning combos:

Denim blues + cream
Soft sage + sand + white
Terracotta + ivory + muted olive (always a winner in autumn shoots!)
White + blush + taupe

The trick is to coordinate, not match. I generally suggest lying all your planned family outfits on the floor together, and think - how do these sit together? Is there a piece that stands out too much? Do I need to add in a little more colour?

Tip number three: Take inspiration from your shoot location
Stuck for ideas on what to wear for your shoot or where to start when it comes to planning your outfits? If you’re shooting on the beach, soft blues, whites and sandy tones look awesome with the scenery. For bush walks or forest sessions, try mossy greens, browns and neutrals.
If you’re coming to the studio, it’s a little more of a blank canvas, and you can go a little more timeless with creams, blacks, or anything that won’t clash with backdrops.

Tip number four: Avoid distracting patterns or logos
Small florals or subtle textures are fine, but loud patterns and big brand logos can steal focus away from your beautiful faces! The goal is for you to stand out, not your t-shirt slogan. Steer clear from small stripes, busy patterns, too much bold colour, logos or screen-printed clothing.

Tip number five: Comfort is a priority
This is particularly important for the kids, but goes for the whole family! No one wants to be in outfits that are too tight, itchy or uncomfortable, and it really does show through in grumpy expressions. Choose soft, flexible fabrics. It means you can spend more time getting photos together as a family, playing, running around and being yourselves, rather than standing still in stiff outfits.

And if the kids are adamant about wearing gumboots or a superhero cape? Honestly, just go with it. Sometimes those quirks are what make the photos extra special, and you will look back on them fondly (and with a few laughs). Plus, there’s nothing trickier than wrestling a toddler into an outfit they aren’t comfortable in!

A few ideas for outfits for the kids that are comfy, and also meaningful:

Choose something they love (favourite overalls, soft jumper)
Bring something special that you’ll love having photographed (handmade cardigan, knitted hat from Grandma)
Add accessories with sentiment (family heirloom, taonga, a special necklace, pounamu)

Tip number six: Bring a backup option (or two!)
Outfit changes are totally fine! Bring a backup top, a jumper or jacket, another layer to chuck on, or a full change for the kids if things get messy (because let’s be honest, snacks will be involved, and are usually the best form of bribery). Extra layers also mean you get to vary your photos easily and quickly, plus you’ll be cosy if the Wellington weather decides to turn!

Your checklist: What to pack for the day
Here’s a quick checklist so you’re prepped and ready: