What to Wear For Your Family Photoshoot

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.

View fullsize

View fullsize

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.

View fullsize

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

The Best Places for Family Photography Around Dr Phillips, Florida

If you're looking for family photography in Dr Phillips, Florida, one of the biggest questions is usually, "Where should we take our photos?"

The good news is you don't have to drive far to find beautiful locations. Whether you're after open green spaces, lakeside views, tree-lined paths, or something a little more modern, there are plenty of great spots within a short drive of Dr Phillips.

Here are some of my favourite locations for family photography around the area, along with the best time to visit and a few tips on what photographs well.

1. Cypress Grove Park

Cypress Grove Park is one of the most popular locations for family photography near Dr Phillips, and it's easy to see why. The park has large oak trees, walking paths, open fields, and a beautiful white mansion overlooking the lake. It gives plenty of variety without needing to walk very far.

The light here is especially beautiful during golden hour, about an hour before sunset, when everything softens and the trees create a warm backdrop.

Best time for photos: One hour before sunset.

What to wear: Soft neutral colors, earth tones, creams, greens, or muted pinks all work well. Try to avoid bright neon colours or large logos, as they can pull attention away from everyone's faces.

2. Dr. P. Phillips Community Park

If you have younger children who like to move around, this park offers lots of open space without feeling overcrowded. The walking paths, lake views, and mature trees make it a relaxed setting for natural family photos.

Because it's close to home for many Dr Phillips families, it's also a convenient option for evening sessions after work or school.

Best time for photos: Late afternoon into sunset.

What to wear: Neutral colours with subtle texture work really well here. Linen, cotton, and simple dresses or button-down shirts photograph beautifully.

3. Kraft Azalea Garden

Although it's about 25 minutes away, Kraft Azalea Garden in Winter Park is worth the drive if you're looking for a quieter setting.

The towering cypress trees, lakeside views, and famous columned area give the location a timeless feel without looking overly formal. It's particularly beautiful for families with toddlers because there's room to explore naturally.

Best time for photos: Sunrise or the final hour before sunset.

What to wear: Light neutrals, sage green, beige, cream, soft browns, or dusty blues all complement the scenery.

4. Celebration

Celebration has become one of the most requested locations for family photography near Orlando. The colourful homes, lakeside boardwalk, brick streets, and mature oak trees give plenty of variety within a short walk.

It works especially well if you're looking for a mix of natural and charming neighbourhood backgrounds.

Best time for photos: Sunset, particularly in autumn and winter when the light falls nicely through the trees.

What to wear: Soft colour palettes always photograph best. Coordinating outfits work much better than everyone wearing identical clothes.

5. Bill Frederick Park at Turkey Lake

If you're looking for somewhere that feels tucked away from the city without driving far from Dr Phillips, Bill Frederick Park at Turkey Lake is a great choice. Sitting on 183 acres along Turkey Lake, the park offers lakeside views, mature oak trees, wooden docks, open fields, and quiet walking trails, giving plenty of variety for a family photography session.

One of the things I like most about this location is how spacious it feels. Children have room to run, explore, and just be themselves, which often leads to the most natural family photographs.

Best time for photos: The hour before sunset. The light filters beautifully through the trees and across the lake, especially during the cooler months.

What to wear: Earth tones, creams, olive green, rust, soft blues, and linen textures work really well here. Since the location is very natural, simple outfits tend to suit it best.

6. Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts

If you're looking for something a little different from the usual park setting, the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts offers a clean, modern backdrop in downtown Orlando. The contemporary architecture, wide staircases, glass walls, and open plaza create a timeless look that feels polished without being overly formal.

This location works particularly well for families with older children or teenagers, or anyone who prefers a more urban feel over trees and greenery. It's also a great option if you're planning an evening in downtown Orlando and want to include a photo session beforehand.

Because it's such a popular venue, I usually recommend weekday evenings when it's a little quieter.

Best time for photos: About an hour before sunset or just after sunset when the city lights begin to come on.

What to wear: Neutral colours, black, white, navy, soft greys, or muted earth tones all complement the modern architecture. Flowy dresses and smart casual outfits tend to photograph particularly well in this setting.

7. Downtown Dr Phillips

For families who want something a little more modern and urban, Downtown Dr Phillips is a great option. The storefronts, walkways, textured walls, seating areas, and evening lights give the photos a more polished lifestyle feel without having to go all the way into downtown Orlando.

This location works well for families with older children, teens, or anyone who wants photos that feel a little less park-like. It is also a nice choice for quick sessions because there is variety in a small area.

Best time for photos: Early evening, especially during the final hour before sunset or just after the lights come on.

What to wear: Smart casual outfits work well here. Neutrals, black, cream, denim, soft browns, and muted colours suit the urban backdrop. Try to avoid loud patterns or large logos since there is already more detail in the surroundings.

When Should You Schedule Family Photos?

Living in Central Florida means the weather can be unpredictable, especially during summer.

For most of the year, sunset sessions provide the most flattering light and cooler temperatures. During the hotter months, weekday evenings are often a little quieter than weekends.

If you're visiting Orlando on holiday, scheduling your family photos toward the beginning of your trip is often a good idea. That way, if Florida weather decides not to cooperate, there's usually room to move the session.

Looking for a Family Photographer Near Dr Phillips?

Whether you live in Dr Phillips or you're visiting Orlando on holiday, there are plenty of beautiful locations nearby for relaxed, natural family photography.

Every family is different, so choosing the right location depends on the kind of images you want to remember years from now. Some families love wide open parks where the kids can run around, while others prefer lakeside views or quieter gardens.

If you're not sure which location fits your family best, I'm always happy to recommend somewhere based on the season, your children's ages, and the style of photos you're hoping for.

Why You Should Print Your Photos

We live in a digital world. Our phones are filled with thousands of snapshots, our computers hold folders of family memories, and our social media feeds are a highlight reel of our lives. But here’s the truth; digital files aren’t forever. Technology changes, hard drives fail, phones get lost, and in a blink, those memories could disappear. That’s why printing your photos is so important.

Digital Memories Can Fade

Think back to the floppy disk or the CD. At one time, they were the best way to store files. Now, most computers don’t even have a place to read them. The same thing can happen to today’s storage methods. Even if you back up your photos in the cloud, accounts can get hacked or shut down. The reality is, digital formats may not stand the test of time the way a printed photo can.

Prints Turn Memories Into Heirlooms

A printed photograph is something you can hold, frame, and pass down to future generations. When your children grow up, they’re not going to look through your old hard drives. They’ll flip through photo albums, smile at the framed portraits on the wall, and hold those memories in their hands. Prints transform fleeting digital moments into tangible keepsakes that carry emotion, history, and love.

The Joy of Displaying Your Story

Printed photos bring life into your home. Whether it’s a canvas on your living room wall, a collection of framed images in a hallway, or a coffee table album filled with your favorite sessions, these pieces remind you daily of the moments and people who matter most. They aren’t hidden on a screen, they’re part of your story, displayed proudly in your space. I have some of my own personal work printed. I have photos of my children my partner, and long-distance family members who I miss all over my house and I look at them pretty much every day!

Why Professional Prints Matter

Professional photographers, like me, don’t just capture your story, we also ensure it’s preserved beautifully. Printing through a professional lab means colors are accurate, the paper and materials are archival-quality, and your images will last for generations. It’s not the same as printing at a drugstore or big-box retailer. Your memories deserve the very best.

Don’t Let Your Memories Live in the Cloud

At the end of the day, photos are meant to be seen, touched, and treasured, not just stored. When you invest in professional photography, give those images the life they deserve by turning them into prints, albums, or wall art that you and your family can enjoy every single day.

Ready to Turn Your Photos Into Heirlooms?

If you’ve been meaning to print your photos, now is the perfect time. I offer high-quality albums, canvases, and prints that are designed to last a lifetime. Let’s turn your memories into something you can hold close, display proudly, and pass down for generations.

In the Orlando area? Contact me today or call/text 689-310-7005 to learn more about printing options.

Your story deserves more than a screen, it deserves a place in your home.

Life as a Special Needs Photographer: Why Patience and Compassion Matter

Photography is so much more than just clicking a button, it’s about capturing the heart of a moment, the personality of a child, and the love of a family. For families with children who have special needs, the experience of being photographed can feel overwhelming. That’s where patience and compassion come in, and why I’ve made it my mission to create a safe, joyful space for every child in front of my lens.

A Personal Perspective

This part of my work is deeply personal to me. As a mom of a child on the autism spectrum, I understand firsthand the challenges that come with new environments, unfamiliar faces, sensory sensitivities, and the unpredictability of a photo session. I know what it’s like to worry about whether or not my child cooperate? Will they smile? Will they be understood? Are we being a burden?

These aren’t just abstract questions to me. They’re ones I’ve asked myself as a parent many, many times. That’s why I approach every family I photograph with empathy, flexibility, and patience. I see your child for who they are, not for how still they sit or how long they smile at the camera.

Why Patience Makes All the Difference

Every child is unique, and some need more time to warm up. That’s why I build extra time into my sessions, allow kids to take breaks, and let them explore the environment at their own pace. There’s no “rush” with me, because genuine smiles and true personalities can’t be forced.

I also adapt to each child’s comfort level. Sometimes that means photographing while they play, sometimes it means letting them hold a favorite toy, and other times it means being silly right alongside them to earn a grin. The key is patience, meeting kids where they are, instead of asking them to conform to a rigid plan.

Compassion Creates Comfort

Compassion is the bridge between the photographer and the family. I know how important it is for parents to feel supported during a session, too. I reassure families that meltdowns are okay, that laughter counts as much as stillness, and that the little in-between moments often make the best photos.

I don’t care if your little one has a meltdown, I don’t care if we take longer than planned. It’s okay!!! Life’s hard enough without someone else making you feel guilty or rushed. Feeling like a burden is the worst feeling in the world, so I want my clients to know that they are safe with me.

When families leave a session feeling relieved, encouraged, and seen. That’s when I know I’ve done my job. The photos are beautiful, yes, but the experience is just as important.

Why This Work Matters

Photography is about more than images, it’s about memories. Families with special needs children deserve portraits that reflect the joy, resilience, and individuality of their stories.

Some of my favorite photoshoots have been with families of neurodivergent children. I have witnessed parents cry tears of joy when they saw their images. I have seen parents laugh and play with their children, creating beautiful memories because they felt comfortable enough to truly have fun in front of my camera. That trust and comfort is why they return to me whenever they need photos. Together, we share nothing but joy and giggles during our sessions, and those families are the heart of why I do what I do.

Ready to Book a Session?

If you’re in the Orlando, Florida area and you’ve been holding off on family photos because you’re worried about how your child will do, I’d love to change that experience for you. With patience, understanding, and years of both professional and personal experience, I create sessions designed to put your family at ease.

Let’s capture your story together.
Contact me today or call/text 689-310-7005 to schedule your session.

Because every child deserves to be seen and celebrated through photography.

Why You Actually Need a Personal Branding Session Instead of Just a Headshot

When most people think about professional photography for their careers, they immediately think of headshots. It’s the classic approach: a nice, clean image that’s used on LinkedIn profiles, business cards, or websites. But in today’s highly visual, digital world, a simple headshot often isn’t enough. You need more than a professional image—you need a personal brand. And that’s where personal branding sessions come in.

What’s the Difference?

A headshot is just that—a head-and-shoulders shot that shows what you look like. It's great for that quick first impression, but it doesn't tell the full story of who you are, what you do, or how you approach your work. Personal branding sessions, on the other hand, go much deeper. They provide a collection of images that reflect your personality, your values, and your professional journey.

Here’s why you should consider booking a personal branding session instead of just settling for a headshot:

1. Showcase Your Unique Personality

A personal branding session gives you the opportunity to communicate more than just your appearance. It captures the essence of who you are and what makes you different from everyone else. Are you fun and approachable, or polished and professional? Do you want to convey creativity, expertise, or both? A series of photos can highlight different aspects of your personality that a single headshot simply can’t.

2. Tell Your Story

Personal branding photography is all about storytelling. In today’s world, people want to know the person behind the business. They’re not just hiring someone with qualifications; they’re hiring someone they connect with. Branding sessions allow you to visually narrate your professional journey, your process, and what you stand for. These images can include you working in your element, interacting with clients, or showcasing your products or services.

3. More Than Just a Face

Your brand is more than just your face—it's your style, environment, and even your tools. Personal branding sessions often include lifestyle shots that show you in action, in spaces that reflect your work. These images can incorporate elements like your workspace, props related to your profession, or candid moments of you doing what you do best. These are far more engaging and give clients and colleagues a better sense of your world.

4. Versatility for Multiple Platforms

A headshot has its place, but personal branding images provide you with a whole set of visuals that you can use across various platforms—your website, social media, newsletters, blogs, and more. You can rotate and use different images to keep things fresh and engaging for your audience. Branding images create a cohesive, professional look that helps you stand out and consistently communicate your brand identity.

5. Build Trust and Connection

When people see multiple sides of you—through different images that capture both your professional and personal vibes—they feel more connected. Personal branding photography helps build trust because it shows authenticity. People don’t just want to see a face; they want to see you. This kind of visual storytelling fosters a sense of connection, making potential clients more likely to choose you over someone they feel they know less about.

6. Future-Proof Your Brand

As you grow in your career or business, your needs will change. A personal branding session provides a suite of images that can evolve with you. Whether you're rebranding, launching a new service, or expanding into new markets, having a diverse portfolio of images means you're always ready to visually represent your journey. A single headshot can quickly become outdated, but personal branding photos offer more flexibility and longevity.

Ready to Elevate Your Brand?

In today’s fast-paced, image-driven world, a personal branding session is an investment in how you present yourself to the world. While a headshot is still important, it’s no longer enough to set you apart or fully communicate your story. Personal branding photography goes deeper, giving you the tools to express yourself, connect with your audience, and stand out in your industry.

If you’re ready to go beyond the headshot and showcase your brand in a dynamic, engaging way, it’s time to schedule your personal branding session!