What to Wear for Your Family Photo Session

One of the questions I get asked most often is, "What should we wear for our photo session?" And I completely understand why. It can feel like a lot of pressure to get it right. But here's the good news: it really doesn't need to be stressful. A few simple guidelines will have your whole family looking and feeling wonderful.

Coordinate, Don't Match

The days of everyone wearing identical white shirts are long gone, thankfully! Instead of matching exactly, think about coordinating your colours. Pick two or three colours that complement each other and let everyone choose something they feel comfortable in within that palette.

Soft, muted tones tend to photograph beautifully. Think dusty pinks, sage greens, creams, and soft blues. These work particularly well for outdoor sessions around Monmouth and the Wye Valley, where the natural greens and earthy tones of the landscape create a gorgeous backdrop.

Keep It Simple

Bold logos, large slogans, and busy patterns can be really distracting in photos. They draw the eye away from the most important thing: your faces and the connection between you. Plain tops or simple, subtle patterns like fine stripes or small florals tend to work best.

That said, don't overthink it. If your little one refuses to take off their favourite dinosaur jumper, that's absolutely fine. Those details are part of who they are right now, and sometimes the most genuine photos come from just letting children be themselves.

Think About the Setting

If we're heading outdoors for your session, perhaps down by the River Wye or in one of the lovely wooded spots around Monmouthshire, layers are your friend. A cosy cardigan, a light scarf, or a denim jacket adds texture to photos and keeps everyone comfortable if the weather turns.

For autumn sessions, rich tones like burgundy, mustard, and deep green look absolutely stunning against the golden leaves. In spring and summer, lighter fabrics and softer colours feel natural and relaxed in the warm light.

If we're shooting in the studio here on Church Street, you have a bit more freedom. The controlled lighting means almost anything works well.

Comfort Is Everything

This is probably my most important tip. If you're uncomfortable in what you're wearing, it will show in your photos. Wear clothes that fit well and that you feel good in. If you never wear heels, don't wear them for your session. If the children are happiest in their favourite wellies, bring the wellies.

The more relaxed and comfortable everyone feels, the more natural and genuine your photos will be. And those are always the ones you'll treasure most.

A Few Quick Don'ts

• Avoid brand-new shoes for little ones as they might rub and cause tears (the wrong kind!)
• Skip the neon because very bright colours can cast colour onto skin in photos
• Don't stress about ironing as a few natural creases won't show, I promise

The Most Important Thing

Honestly, what you wear matters far less than how you feel. I've photographed families in jeans and wellies and families in their Sunday best, and the photos I love most are always the ones where everyone is relaxed, laughing, and just enjoying being together.

If you're ever unsure, just drop me a message before your session. I'm always happy to chat through outfit ideas and help you feel confident about your choices. That's what I'm here for.

Ready to book your family session? Get in touch and let's find a time that works for you.