I’ve developed a bit of an obsession with family photos over the years. We make it a tradition to capture our family at least once a year, and I dedicate a fair amount of time to planning outfits and themes. Combining pieces from our wardrobe with a few new additions is my favorite way to create a look that I adore.
While I’m no professional stylist or photographer, my experience with countless family photos has given me a good sense of what works well visually. If the idea of coordinating outfits feels daunting, here are some simple yet effective tips I’ve gathered through experimentation that might help you. Plus, I’ve included some family photos to illustrate how I’ve applied these ideas!
1. Pick a Color Palette with Options
Your best allies for this step are Google and Pinterest! For Thanksgiving this year, I wanted our family to coordinate for a nice photo. Instead of hunting for outfits that fit a color scheme, I searched for a scheme that would complement our existing clothes. I decided to highlight my daughter’s cute metallic rose gold dress, so I looked up “color schemes with rose gold” and found a palette from an interior designer. I then rummaged through our closets for outfits in those shades, leading us to comfortable and visually appealing clothing that didn’t look overly matched.
2. Use One Pattern to Inspire Solids
Last year, I discovered an adorable striped sweater in autumn colors for my son. I used that as the foundation for our family photo outfits. While he stood out in his pattern, the rest of us wore solid colors or subtle patterns that reflected the colors in his sweater. It created a cohesive look without drawing too much attention to any one person.
3. Embrace Matching Outfits with Style
If you love the idea of everyone matching, go for it! For instance, I saw a stunning holiday photo of a family that nailed the classic jeans-and-white-shirt look. To modernize it, ensure you mix up the shapes and necklines of the shirts while varying the denim tones. This way, the familiar theme feels fresh and elegant.
4. Get Creative with Fun Themes
Consider playful themes like pajamas, winter gear, or even swimwear for your family photos. A cozy pajama shoot or one featuring everyone bundled up in cute winter hats can yield heartwarming images. Your photographer will capture genuine moments of joy and connection. You might even opt for a messy shoot with activities like cookie decorating or mud play! For summer, don’t forget swimwear, pool floats, and other accessories for vibrant photos.
5. Stick to Neutrals If You’re Unsure
If you’re pressed for time or don’t want to fuss over a theme, neutrals are always a safe bet. Combinations of white, cream, denim, and muted colors like navy and gray work beautifully together. Lay out what your family already owns; you may find you have everything you need right at home!
6. Go All Out with Formal Attire
Got suits or fancy dresses that your kids will soon outgrow? This is a perfect opportunity to showcase them in a family photo! As long as everyone is similarly dressed up, the colors don’t have to match perfectly. If color coordination is a concern, consider a classic black-and-white shot for timeless elegance.
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Summary
Capturing family photos can be an enjoyable experience with the right outfits. Choosing a color palette, using patterns strategically, and embracing themes can elevate your photos. Whether you prefer matching outfits or a more relaxed look, these tips can help you create memorable images that reflect your family’s personality.