Family Photoshoot | a what-to-wear guide

Family Photoshoots

Jan 15

A Styling Guide by Jeremy Pineiro Photography

Choosing what to wear for a family photoshoot can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. The goal isn’t perfection. It’s connection. What you wear should help you feel comfortable, confident, and like yourselves, so the focus stays on your relationships, not your outfits.

At Jeremy Pineiro Photography, our family photoshoots are relaxed, natural, and centered around real moments. This guide will help you choose outfits that photograph beautifully and stand the test of time.

Start With a Color Palette (Not Matching Outfits)

Instead of everyone wearing the same color, choose 2–4 complementary tones and build outfits around them. Soft neutrals, earth tones, and muted colors tend to photograph best and keep the images timeless.

Great color options include:

Cream, beige, tan, camel
Soft blues, sage, olive
Warm grays, rust, muted blush

Avoid bright neons, large logos, or heavy patterns that pull attention away from faces.

Think Texture and Layers

Textures add depth and warmth to photos, especially for fall and winter family photoshoots.

Try mixing:

Knits, denim, linen, corduroy
Light jackets, cardigans, scarves
Dresses with movement instead of stiff fabrics

Layers also give you flexibility during the session and create visual interest.

Dress for Comfort (It Shows)

If something feels tight, itchy, or awkward, it will show in the photos. Choose clothing that allows you to sit, walk, cuddle, and move naturally, especially with kids.

For families with little ones:

Let kids be comfortable first
Avoid outfits that constantly need adjusting
Barefoot or soft shoes often photograph beautifully outdoors

Comfort leads to genuine smiles and relaxed moments.

Coordinate, Don’t Match

Each person should feel like themselves while still fitting into the overall look. Different shades of the same color family work better than identical outfits.

Example:

One person in cream
One in soft denim
One in warm tan
One in sage or muted blue

This creates harmony without looking overly styled.

Keep It Timeless

Holiday family photoshoot in Flushing, Queens, New York — Holiday family photoshoot in Flushing, Queens

Trendy pieces can be fun, but classic styles age better. When in doubt, choose outfits you’d love seeing framed on your walls years from now.

Ask yourself:

Would I still love this in 10 years?
Does this feel like us?

If the answer is yes, you’re on the right track.

Seasonal Tips

Fall & Winter:
Think cozy. Sweaters, boots, scarves, and layers look beautiful on photos and they encourage you all to be cozy, together.

Spring & Summer:
Light fabrics, flowy dresses, and breathable materials work best. Soft movement adds life to your photos.