Orlando photographer
The Blog
What to Wear For Your Family Photoshoot
Wondering what to wear for your family photoshoot? The right outfit choices can make a huge difference in how your images look and feel. From timeless neutrals and earthy tones to flattering color palettes that complement every family member, this guide covers outfit combinations that photograph beautifully while helping you avoid common styling mistakes. Whether you're planning a session in a park, at the beach, or around Central Florida, these expert tips will help your family look coordinated, natural, and camera-ready.
Hello friends. Today we are going to talk about one of the most common questions I’m asked by clients ahead of their photoshoot:
“What should we wear to our photoshoot?”
Learning how to dress yourself for your photoshoot can actually make a big difference in how your images turn out. You’re paying your photographer to make you look good, however, it’s a team effort, baby, and what you wear is definitely plays a big part.
So what looks good on camera and what should you avoid when planning for your Orlando family photoshoot?
Soft Neutrals & Earth Tones
If you want to stand out during an outdoor photoshoot in Florida, neutral tones and earth tones are the clear winner (If you aren’t convinced, then just look at the images below).
Neutral tones and earth tones compliment both you and your surroundings perfectly, creating a clean, timeless, and elegant look to your images.
If you want to wow yourself and whoever is peaking at your family photos, neutrals and earth tones are the clear answer.
Bonus points for moms who wear a flowy dress and dad’s who don’t show up wearing blue.
Click on the images to enlarge.
Warm Pastels
But aren’t pastels aren't just for spring? No, they aren’t. They look good at any time of year and are a perfect solution to anyone who wants a pop of color in their family photos without being too much! The key is choosing muted versions of these colors rather than bright or neon shades.
Soft blush, dusty rose, lavender, sage, and muted peach can create a light, airy look that feels natural and romantic.
For example:
Mom in dusty rose
Dad in light gray
Children in cream and soft sage
This combination photographs beautifully in both natural and golden-hour light and is sure to leave you smiling when you see your final images.
Click on the images to enlarge.
Denim Done Right
Listen, if you insist on coming to your photoshoot wearing denim, we are doing it the right way. Denim walks to line between cool/stylish and too casual for photos. Together, we can make it work. We just dress the denim up a little.
Instead of everyone wearing jeans and matching shirts, mix denim with softer tones and textures.
For example:
Dad in dark denim and a neutral shirt
Mom in a flowy cream dress
Kids in coordinating neutral outfits
The contrast creates visual interest without looking too casual.
Layers and Texture
Some of the most beautiful photos aren't about color at all, they're about texture.
Think:
Knit sweaters
Linen dresses
Cardigans
Flowy fabrics
Layered outfits
Texture adds dimension and makes your family photos feel rich and natural without requiring bold colors or patterns.
What To Avoid
Before I get into this part - I know not everyone can rush out and buy a new outfit just for a photoshoot. I’m not telling you to do that, however I would pay attention to this next part because it will be the difference between family photos you love and family photos you don’t like so much. You’re paying your photographer a lot of money to create timeless images you can love forever. When I say avoid these next outfit ideas, please listen!
Blue (Especially blue and khaki)
I know dad wants to pull out the old khaki pants and the blue polo but for his own good — please tell him to put it away. I know you typically feel like a queen in that blue dress, but please leave it at home this time.
"But what’s wrong with blue, Laura?” I know, it’s an obvious choice for many. It’s clean, it’s simple, and it usually looks cute, I get it. BUT IT DOESN’T WORK FOR PHOTOGRAPHS! Especially family photos.
Here’s why it doesn’t work:
💙 It competes with the sky and can blend into the background.
🌿 It can clash with greenery, especially bright or cool blues.
☀️ Bright blues can steal attention from faces.
✨ Strong blue can reflect onto skin, creating an unwanted cool or blue cast.
🌅 It can fight against warm golden-hour light instead of complementing it.
👖 Blue jeans + blue shirts + blue sky = a LOT of blue.
🌊 Near water, blue clothing can blend right into the surroundings.
If there’s one piece of advice I would love you to listen to, it’s to ditch the blue!
Other things to avoid:
Neon or very bright colors
Large logos
Character clothing
Matching white shirts on everyone
Busy patterns
Athletic wear
The Goal Isn't Matching
The best family outfits don't match—they coordinate.
Choose two or three colors that work well together, mix in some texture, and let everyone's personality show through. When outfits complement each other rather than compete, the photos feel natural, relaxed, and timeless.
And remember, people will notice your smiles and connection long before they notice what you're wearing. The outfits are there to support the story, not steal the spotlight.
Ready to make some memories?
Let’s get your Orlando family photoshoot on the calendar! Click the button below to check availability, choose a date that works for your family, and take the first step toward beautiful photos you’ll love looking back on.
Looking for beautiful photoshoot locations in Orlando, FL?
Read my most viewed blog post - https://www.laurajessicaphotography.com/blog/orlando-photoshoot-locations