If you’ve ever stared at your closet the week before your family session and thought, “I have nothing to wear,” — you are not alone. What to wear for family photos is, hands down, the question I get asked more than anything else.
And honestly? It makes sense. Getting dressed for yourself is one thing. Getting an entire family — including that one kid who only wants to wear their soccer uniform — to look cohesive, comfortable, and camera-ready is a whole different challenge.
After 15+ years photographing families across Chicago, I’ve seen what works and what doesn’t. This guide is everything I wish every client could read before their session. Whether you’re booked with me or just starting to plan, I hope it helps you walk into your photoshoot feeling confident and ready.
Looking for visual inspiration? I’ve put together themed Pinterest boards you can browse: Coastal, Countryside, Fall, Modern + Sleek, Neutral + Simple, Ski Lodge, and Summer Simple.
Before we get into colors, textures, and where to shop — there’s one guiding principle that makes all the difference:
Start with one person’s outfit, then build everyone else around it.
Most families make the mistake of dressing everyone independently and hoping it works. Instead, pick your anchor piece — usually Mom’s outfit, or whoever has the hardest wardrobe to find — and use that as your starting point. Pull colors from it, echo the mood of it, and let everyone else complement (not match) it.
This one shift makes the whole process dramatically easier and almost always produces better results in photos.
Gone are the days of everyone in matching white shirts and khakis. (Unless that’s genuinely your vibe — in which case, own it.) The modern approach is coordinated but not identical: a cohesive color palette where each person wears something slightly different, but it all feels intentional together.
Think of it like a room you’d see in an interior design magazine. Every piece is different, but they all belong in the same space. That’s the goal.
Not sure where to start? My Neutral + Simple Pinterest board is a great jumping-off point for families who want a timeless, easy-to-coordinate look.
Certain colors just come alive on camera — they feel warm, rich, and timeless in photos.
Colors to Approach with Caution
The season and setting of your shoot should influence your palette. A color scheme that sings in a golden October forest might feel out of place on a bright summer beach.
Color is important — but fit and fabric can make or break an outfit on camera. Here’s what to keep in mind.
Clothes that fit well photograph well. It’s really that simple. Avoid anything that pulls, bunches, or feels uncomfortable — because if you’re uncomfortable in it at home, you’ll be uncomfortable in it during your session, and that tension shows up in photos.
For women, consider silhouettes that are flowy but not shapeless — a midi skirt, a wrap dress, or a fitted-but-comfortable top often photograph beautifully. For men, a well-fitted shirt (tucked or untucked) and a clean trouser or dark jean typically works. Skip the polo.
Texture adds visual interest that flat, smooth fabrics don’t. Some great options:
For kids especially, layering adds a lot of visual interest — a cardigan over a simple tee, a vest, or a flannel over a solid can pull a kid’s outfit from simple to intentional.
Let me be real with you: kids are the hardest part of family outfit coordination. Here’s my honest advice.
A kid who is itchy, too hot, or unhappy in their outfit will spend the entire session pulling at their clothes. If your child hates dresses, don’t put them in one just for photos. A comfortable, happy kid in simple, coordinated clothes will photograph far better than a miserable kid in the “perfect” outfit.
Kids are naturally the most visually interesting subjects — they’re full of movement and expression. You don’t need to overdress them. A simple, solid-colored top and clean pants or a simple dress in your family’s palette is often all you need. Save the pattern and the layering for the adults.
Let me be real with you: kids are the hardest part of family outfit coordination. Here’s my honest advice.
Kids’ clothing is abundant and affordable. Once you’ve nailed the adult outfits, finding kids’ pieces to match is much easier than the other way around. Zara Kids, H&M Kids, and Target are great for affordable, simple pieces in neutral and muted tones.
Accessories can elevate a simple outfit — or clutter a beautiful one. A few guidelines:
If you’re not sure where to start, here’s a simple step-by-step process I recommend to every family before their session:
Still unsure? When you book a session with me, outfit guidance is part of what we do together. I’m happy to look at photos of what you’re thinking and weigh in before your session day.
Not every family wants the same look — and that’s exactly as it should be. Here are the themed Pinterest boards I’ve put together to help you find your family’s style:
You don’t need to spend a fortune. Here are some of my favorite places to find family photo-ready outfits across different price points:
I know this post is long, and if you’re feeling overwhelmed — take a breath. The truth is, your photos are going to be beautiful because of you — your family, your connection, your genuine moments together. The outfits are just the frame.
When in doubt, go simpler. Muted tones. Clothes you love and feel good in. Comfortable enough that you can chase your kids, crouch down for a hug, and laugh without thinking twice about it.
That’s the real AND the pretty. And that’s exactly what we’re going for.
Ready to book your Chicago family photo session? I’d love to chat. Reach out here or book directly online — and yes, I’m always happy to answer outfit questions before your session day.
Maggie Rife Ponce is a Chicago-based family and portrait photographer specializing in warm, story-driven images for families, expecting mothers, and personal brands. Her studio, Le Loft, is located in Wicker Park. Learn more at rifeponcephotography.com.
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