What Not to Wear for Family Photos (And What to Choose Instead)
Fort Worth Family Photographer | For the Wildlings Photography
Let’s be honest — planning outfits for family photos can feel like trying to herd glitter with a rake. Sometimes it’s easier to think about what not to wear for family photos than what is. Because between coordinating colors, chasing sizes, and figuring out if you even own something camera-worthy, it’s enough to make a mama want to cancel the whole thing and just frame last year’s cute (but terrible LOL) school photos.
But listen — the outfits do matter.
Not because you need to look perfect (you don’t). But because what you wear helps tell the story of your family — with emotion, texture, movement, and color. And when you’re investing in beautiful, heartfelt images, you want them to feel like magic, not a random Tuesday at Target.
So let’s talk about what not to wear for family photos — and what to pick instead.
What Not to Wear for Family Photos: Let’s Break It Down
Look, I’m not here to judge your favorite outfit from 2011 (because I don’t even want to tell you mine either lol!). But I am here to help you avoid the kind of clothing that can distract from your people, your connection, and the emotion we’re trying to capture.
Here’s what to skip:
- Bright Neons + Super Saturated Colors
Highlighter yellow, bright coral, neon pink — these look fun in real life, but they reflect light in weird ways and can completely overpower the softness of your family’s expressions. Want that warm, earthy glow? Step away from the neons.
- Pure White
Unless it has a ton of texture (think linen, lace, or knit), stark white can blow out in photos — especially during golden hour. Creams, oatmeals, and soft tans are your new best friends. - Too Many Competing Patterns
One floral? Gorgeous. Five florals + stripes + camo? Not so much. Choose one standout pattern (and MAYBE one supporting pattern) and build the rest around it using solids and texture. - The Classic “Everyone Wears the Same Thing” Uniform
White shirts and jeans for all? Navy Blue matching shirts for the kids? Those trends retired with low-rise capris. Today’s vibe is cohesive, not copy-paste. - Clothes You Don’t Actually Feel Good Inc
If you’re tugging, adjusting, or just not feeling it, it’ll show. Comfort = confidence, and confidence = better photos. I promise. - Logos, Text, or Characters
Yes, even the Bluey shirt (I know, I know). Clothes with logos or writing instantly date your photos and pull focus away from the connection. If it wouldn’t be on a vintage postcard, it’s probably not ideal. OF COURSE there are definitely exceptions to this “rule”, so sometimes we can work something in there and still have it be part of the story.
What to Wear Instead for Your Family Photos
Okay, so now that we’ve cleared the “nope” pile… what does work?
Here’s what photographs beautifully (and still feels like you):
- Muted Earth Tones & Soft Neutrals
Think sage, rust, mustard, cream, dusty rose, olive, and denim. These tones let the emotion shine through while adding warmth to your photos.
- Layers + Texture
Flowy cardigans, linen jumpsuits, knit rompers, soft scarves, wide-brimmed hats — the more visual depth, the better. Texture gives your images a richness that flat fabric just can’t. - Coordinated (Not Matching)
You’re telling a collective story, not dressing for a team photo. Start with one outfit you love (usually Mom’s!) and build from there using complementary colors and vibes. - Movement-Friendly Pieces
Say yes to twirlable dresses, comfy jumpers, and anything that lets your kiddo sprint toward you without flashing their dinosaur undies. - VIBE Friendly
What I mean by that is we will make sure that all the pieces that ya’ll are wearing are matching whatever tone/vibe/mood that you want to be! Are we looking to be edgy and urban? I’ll help you find pieces that match that vibe! Are you looking to be a cottagecore homesteader? OR are ya’ll leaning toward wearing cowboy boots and hats? Let’s fully commit and get ya’ll styled up for that vibe!
Not Sure What Works? That’s Where I Come In.
Still stressed? Wondering if your Amazon cart is a hit or a hard no? I’ve got you. Every session comes with styling support — from outfit guidance and mood boards to full-on styling with pieces from my client closet (yes, really!).
You don’t have to figure this out alone — and trust me, once you’re twirling in a flowy dress while your babies cling to your legs and the light turns to gold, you’ll feel it.
Final Thoughts on What Not to Wear for Family Photos
Choosing the right outfits doesn’t have to be stressful — it just needs a little intention. When we avoid the visual distractions and lean into warmth, texture, and authentic style, your photos become less about the clothes and more about the connection.
And that’s what we’re here for.
If you’re ready to stop stressing and start styling, I’m here to help every step of the way.
