Family photo sessions are a wonderful way to preserve memories and capture the essence of your family at a particular moment in time. Whether you're planning for a holiday card, an anniversary, or want photos just because, choosing the right outfits is crucial to creating timeless, beautiful images. With that being said, there’s one mistake that many families make: choosing white shirts and jeans for everyone.

While this might seem like a safe, classic option, it’s actually one of the least flattering and most overdone choices when it comes to photos. Let’s take a closer look at why this wardrobe choice may not be the best idea and what you can wear instead to make your photos stand out in the best way possible. Of course, family photos should always reflect your individual style, but there are some key things you should consider before you make this wardrobe choice.

1. White Shirts Can Look Washed Out

White is a neutral color, and while it’s great for certain occasions, it can sometimes cause your skin to look washed out in photos. When everyone wears white, it tends to blend into the background, making it difficult to highlight individual features. Additionally, if you’re shooting outdoors, white can reflect sunlight in an unflattering way, leading to harsh shadows and unbalanced lighting. This is especially true for beach sessions. You can wear white, but it is best to break it up with other colors too as seen below.

2. Jeans Are Too Casual for Many Settings

I personally prefer garments that are loose and flow. This is because movement adds emotions to images and jeans don’t allow for that movement. I know…I know….jeans are super comfortable and practical, but they’re also incredibly casual. Unless you’re aiming for a laid-back, informal vibe, jeans can make the photo feel less polished. If your family’s vibe is casual, then go for the jeans look, just make sure you add texture and color to your tops. However, if you want your images feel sophisticated and elevated, you should avoid jeans. The exception to this rule is for in home sessions. In home sessions tend to be relaxed and laid back, so jeans would work wonderfully for this type of session. This family’s ensemble works very well because they have texture in the tops and it is an in home newborn session.

3. Matching Outfits Can Look Stiff

While matching outfits used to be the go-to for family photos, they can often come across as too coordinated or forced. Everyone wearing the exact same shirt and pants can take away from the individuality of each person and make the photograph feel overly staged. The goal of a family photo is to capture the essence of your loved ones—let’s focus on style that enhances, rather than diminishes, everyone’s personality! For example, the family below breaks up the white by using off white in place of pure white and tan and khaki colored shorts.

4. Mismatched whites

Some people love the look of all white for beach photos. I get it. It provides a very crisp, clean and classic look. The problem with white is that often people choose varying shades of white. This mismatch will be very evident in your images and will detract from the cohesive look you were going for. Even a small difference in tone can be noticeable and break up the uniformity of the image. If you are going to go with all white..make sure all of the garments are the same shade of white as seen below. Do not mix warm whites with cool whites or ivories and creams with pure whites. I also prefer off whites and creams to classic pure white as seen in the family above. It is softer to the eye and edits better. The family below looks amazing in white this is because the whites are all the same tone and the khaki breaks up the white. Again, your photos should reflect your style. If you want to go with all white, just make sure they are all the same tone.

So, What Should You Wear Instead?

Now that we’ve covered why white shirts and jeans aren’t the best choice, let’s explore some wardrobe alternatives that will elevate your family photo session.

1. Consider Soft Neutrals and Earth Tones

Instead of white, opt for soft neutrals like beige, light grey, or taupe. Earthy tones like olive green, rust, and mustard yellow create a natural, warm vibe that will stand out against various backgrounds—whether it’s a lush outdoor setting or a neutral studio backdrop. The family above utilizes soft earth tones like cream and maple pink and camel. the pop of color in the teal romper adds the perfect amount of dimension to the image. The family below utilizes olive, tan, brown and camel for the perfect blend of earth tones. Earth tones are often overlooked for beach sessions, but always work wonderfully. You can see the use of earth tones in both of the family photos below.

2. Add Layers and Textures

Texture is key in making family photos more dynamic. Think about incorporating cozy sweaters, scarves, and cardigans, or using fabrics like denim, linen, and wool. Mixing textures creates visual interest and depth, ensuring that your photos feel more engaging. The first family below adds a lace cardigan to add dimension and texture to the image. the baby’s headband is a great accessory to add interest and her sweater adds a lot of texture to the images as well as a pop of color. The second family uses denim jackets and textured cardigans both of which add a lot of dimension and visual interest to the image. The mixture of the soft and subtle patterns are also great for the image.

3. Go for Coordinated, Not Matching

Rather than dressing everyone in identical outfits, opt for coordinating colors and patterns. Choose a color palette (for example, navy, burgundy, and mustard) and allow each person to express their own personality while still looking cohesive. This approach adds variety while maintaining harmony in the photo. The family above utilizes soft floral patterns and stripe patterns to add great dimension to the image. These patterns are not overwhelming and add visual interest and cohesiveness to the photos.

4. Avoid Overly Bold Patterns

While patterns can be fun, they can also be distracting in photos if not chosen carefully. Instead of bold, busy prints that dominate the image, go for subtle stripes, delicate florals, or even a classic plaid. These can add visual interest without overwhelming the photo. The patterns above and below are soft and subtle and work beautifully in the images.

5. Think About the Season

The season of your photo shoot should play a role in your wardrobe choices. For example, in the fall, warm colors like burnt orange and deep red work beautifully against the changing leaves. In the spring, pastel shades like lavender or light pink can add a fresh, airy vibe to your photos. Be sure to dress for the weather to ensure everyone is comfortable, too.

6. Don't Forget Accessories

Accessories like hats, jewelry, belts, or shoes can add a personal touch to your outfits. Just be mindful not to overdo it—aim for pieces that complement the look rather than overpower it. A simple necklace or a cozy beanie can add that extra flair without being distracting.

Final Thoughts: Let Your Personality Shine!

Your photo session is all about capturing the unique personality and dynamic of your family. By avoiding the overly matched look of white shirts and jeans, and instead opting for thoughtful, coordinated outfits that incorporate texture, color, and individuality, you’ll be left with beautiful, timeless photos that reflect the true essence of you and your loved ones.

Remember, when it comes to what to wear, the goal is to complement your surroundings, flatter your features, and most importantly, feel like yourselves. So ditch the white shirts and jeans, and make your next portrait session one to remember for all the right reasons! I work with each and every client to provide custom wardrobe guidance and assistance. I even have a client closet with women’s dresses available on loan. I make the whole process super simple for all of you.

If you are ready to book you session, contact me today. I can’t wait to help you plan your family’s wardrobe.