Why is picking outfits for family photos so stressful? As a mum of 3, (2 girls and a boy) and an Adelaide family photographer with over 11 years of experience, I completely understand. So many of my families tell me this is the hardest part, some even put off booking altogether because of it. This guide is designed to take the stress out of outfit planning so you can focus on enjoying your session.



1. What to Wear for Family Photos


Colours That Photograph Beautifully

The best colours for family photos are earthy, muted tones. These photograph consistently well across different locations and lighting conditions, and they keep the focus on your family — not the clothing.

Great colour choices include:

  • Browns, camel, and tan
  • Ivory and cream
  • Rust and clay
  • Muted mustard
  • Sage and deep forest green
  • Muted rose and dusty pink 

Mixing textures adds visual interest without disrupting the palette. Try combining smooth fabrics with corduroy, lace, cable knit, or leather — as long as the colours stay cohesive, it works beautifully.

Pro tip

Dress mum first. Once her outfit is chosen, build the rest of the family's clothing around her colour palette. Aim to be coordinated, not matching. If you need a visual reference, search "earthy colour palette" on Pinterest to guide your choices.

What Not to Wear


There are no hard rules, but here are the colours and items that can make your photos harder to edit and less timeless:

  • Blue jeans and dark denim — these can throw off the colour balance and harmony of the overall image. If jeans are a must, light-wash denim is the better option. Earth-toned, tan, or olive pants are an even better alternative.
  • Bright white in grassy outdoor settings — white fabric absorbs the green bounce from grass and can make skin tones look slightly off. If white is important to you, mention it at booking and we can plan around it.
  • All black — when everyone is in black, individuals can blend together. It can work, but it takes more care to make it look intentional.
  • Bold patterns — busy patterns draw the eye away from faces and connection. A subtle texture is always better than a large print.

How to Dress the Kids


For girls, flowy dresses are a classic choice and photograph beautifully. Make sure to dress them in neutral undergarments, and for toddlers in nappies, add a natural nappy cover or bloomers underneath.

For boys, keep it simple and comfortable. Avoid tight or restrictive clothing — it leads to discomfort and an uncooperative child. Sandals, white shoes, and brown loafers all look great. For beach sessions, bare feet are perfect.

Remember: these photos are forever. Classic and comfortable will always outlast trendy.

2. What to Bring to Your Family Photo Session


  • A spare outfit — just in case. I have a pop-up change room on location if needed.
  • Make-up for touch-ups — if you think you might want it mid-session.
  • Small sentimental props — a favourite teddy, silky, or blankie can make for beautiful, personal images.
  • For non-sitting babies — bring a bumbo chair or similar, plus a neutral swaddle blanket to drape over it.

3. What to Leave in the Car


  • Hair ties on wrists — these are easy to forget and show up clearly in photos.
  • Sports watches — they date the image quickly and stand out in earthy, lifestyle sessions.
  • Large toys — small, meaningful items are welcome; large plastic toys are distracting.
  • Wallets and bulky items in pockets — empty your pockets before the session. Removing these in editing takes time and may incur an additional fee.


Quick checklist

✓ Earthy tones, coordinated not matching

✓ Spare outfit

✓ Small props

✓ Pockets emptied

✓ Hair ties off wrists

Here are a few outfit ideas to create timeless photos!

What to wear
What to wear
What to wear
What to wear

FAQ

What colours are best for family photos?

Earthy, muted tones are the most timeless choice for family photos. Browns, ivory, rust, sage, muted mustard, clay, and soft rose all photograph beautifully and keep the focus on your family rather than the clothing. Avoid bold patterns, bright white in grassy settings, and all-black outfits where possible.

Should I wear jeans for family photos?

Standard blue jeans can throw off the colour balance of family portraits. If jeans are important to you, opt for light-wash denim. The best alternative is earth-toned or olive pants, which complement most outdoor Adelaide locations beautifully.

What should kids wear for family photos?

For girls, flowy dresses in earthy or muted tones work well. Always add neutral undergarments and nappy covers for younger children. For boys, simple and comfortable is always best, avoid anything tight or restrictive. White shoes, loafers, or bare feet at the beach are all great options.

What should I bring to a family photo session?

Bring a spare outfit, make-up for touch-ups if needed, small sentimental props for the children, and for babies who can't sit up, a bumbo chair with a neutral swaddle blanket.

Do I need to match outfits for family photos?

No — coordinated is better than matching. Choose a colour palette (earthy tones work best) and let each family member wear something that fits within it. Mixing textures like linen, knit, and cotton within the same palette adds depth without looking overly uniform.

Ready to Book Your Adelaide Family Session?

Photo by Nancy is an Adelaide-based family photographer serving the metro area with no travel fee. Sessions are relaxed, documentary-style, and designed to capture genuine connection — not forced poses. If you have questions about outfits or locations, get in touch before your session and I'm happy to help.


Browse the family photography gallery or visit the pricing page to see what's included in each session.