What Do I Wear - The most frequently asked question in family photography.

Abigail Anderson
5 days ago
3 min read

Child stands on a bed with arms out, wearing WOKE UP LIKE THIS shirt, while two women sit blurred behind in a cozy bedroom by Salmon Arm Photographer.

By far the thing my clients worry about the most when planning their photoshoot, is what they should wear!

The more planning you put into your photoshoot, the better your photos will turn out. Below are some simple tips to start planning your outfits.

What You Wear Changes the Feel of Your Photos

One important thing to keep in mind when picking your outfit(s) for your photoshoot is that the type of clothes you choose will influence the type of photos we create for you. For instance, if everyone shows up in casual-wear, the photos will tend to be more relaxed, and the prompts and guidance I give you during the shoot will be more playful. On the other hand, if you show up in formal-wear, we're going to get some more dramatic looking images.

Two toddlers in black pom-pom hats sit on a blanket in tall dry grass, laughing together in a wintery field by Salmon Arm Photographer.

How to Coordinate Outfits for the Whole Family

As far as finding outfits for you whole family that all go together, think of your individual outfits as part of the group's outfit. If you wouldn't put it together on one person, you probably shouldn't put it together in the group.

Wear Something That Actually Feels Like You

With all of this in mind, whatever you decide to wear, be sure to be yourselves! Wear what you feel good in. This goes for your children's clothes as well. If you have a little girl who wouldn't be caught dead in a dress, it's probably not a good idea to force her into one for your family photoshoot.

Or Go Completely Outside the Box

On the other hand, it can be super fun to go completely crazy and wear clothes that you would never normally have the opportunity to wear. And, if you really want to have fun with your photoshoot, you can even pick a theme, like the roaring 20s, or something else that your family will get a kick out of.

Maternity photoshoot with billowing dress on top of a mountain
pregnant woman being embraced by her husband in a flower garden for maternity session
Maternity session in spring by Salmon Arm Photographer

Bring a Second Outfit for a Completely Different Look

Remember we can always begin your photoshoot in one style of clothes, and wear another set for the second half, to get two completely different looks for you.

Where to Find Photoshoot Outfit Inspiration

I also recommend checking out Pinterest for some awesome photoshoot outfit inspiration, and don't hesitate to snap some photos of your favourite outfit ideas to get some feedback from me; I've done this a lot, and have a great eye for what looks good together in photographs.

Three women sit on a giant driftwood log on a sandy beach under a cloudy sky, with mountains in the distance by Salmon Arm Photographer.

What to Wear for Cold-Weather Family Photos

Finally, it is important to keep in mind, that no matter when you are booking your photoshoot, the most important thing for finding outfits for children is that they are dressed warmly if it will be cold. Children don't last long at all when they are not comfortable. The best way to keep the little ones warm and still have some great outfits for your photoshoot is to layer them underneath their outfits. Long underwear, warm socks, and layers of shirts will go a long way in keeping smiles on your children's faces.

I look forward planning your photoshoot with you, and capturing some beautiful memories for you.

Family of four posing in a snowy field with rolling hills and trees, smiling warmly in winter clothing by Salmon Arm Photographer.

Planning a photoshoot?

Whether you’re still deciding what kind of session you want or you’ve already booked with The Dark Room Studio, there’s plenty more advice here to help you plan.

And if you think we might be a good fit, I’d love to photograph you.