What to Wear for a Family Photoshoot: Ditch the White Tees and Jeans!

Planning outfits for a family photoshoot can feel overwhelming, but the right clothing choices can take your photos from ordinary to extraordinary. While the classic white T-shirt and blue jeans combo has been a go-to for years, it’s time to move beyond the expected!

If you’re wondering what to wear for your upcoming family photoshoot, here are some key tips to ensure your outfits enhance the overall look and feel of your images—without blending into the background or creating harsh reflections in bright sunlight.

1. Embrace Colour and Prints

Neutral tones have their place, but colour and patterns can bring life to your photos. Soft pastels, warm earthy tones, deep jewel hues, and even bold prints can create a dynamic and visually interesting look.

Rich tones like burgundy, mustard, olive, and navy photograph beautifully and add warmth to your images.

Muted pastels and earthy tones work well in natural settings like parks or forests.

Small prints, florals, and textures can add dimension without being overwhelming. Just be sure to mix solid colours with prints to keep the look balanced.

The key is to coordinate rather than match—your family’s outfits should complement each other instead of looking like a uniform.

See examples below with full shoot linked for more

2. Say No to Bright White and Neon Colours in Direct Sunlight

Bright white clothing may seem like a crisp, clean choice, but when shooting in direct sunlight—especially on the beach—it can cause overexposure in photos, making details disappear. Similarly, neon colours can reflect onto the skin, creating unnatural tones in your images.

Instead, opt for:

Darker tones like deep greens, maroons, navy, or burnt orange, which photograph beautifully in bright conditions.

Muted versions of bright colours if you love colour but want a softer, more flattering effect.

Off-whites, creams, or beiges instead of pure white to avoid harsh highlights.

For beach shoots, flowy fabrics in warm, earthy tones will complement the sandy tones beautifully while avoiding glare.

See example below with full shoot linked for more

3. Layer and Add Texture

Adding layers like cardigans, scarves, or jackets can create depth and visual interest in your photos. Textured fabrics like knits, lace, or linen also photograph well and add a sense of warmth and personality to the images.

If it’s a cooler season, layering can help you stay comfortable while adding an extra element to your outfits. In warmer months, opting for breezy, textured fabrics can add movement and softness to your photos.

4. Avoid Logos and Distracting Graphics

Large logos, brand names, and graphic prints can be distracting in family portraits. The goal is to create timeless images, and trendy branding can take away from that. Stick to solid colours, subtle prints, and textures that won’t date your photos in a few years.

See example below with full shoot linked for more

5. Shoes And Accessories Matter Too!

Your footwear and accessories should match the overall vibe of your outfits. 

Barefoot works beautifully for beach shoots, while stylish sandals, boots, or neutral-toned shoes work best for casual or outdoor settings. Avoid neon sneakers or overly sporty shoes unless they align with your chosen aesthetic.

Avoid accessories that could be very reflective in a sunny setting, it might cause sun glares. Also keep in mind to leave off sunglasses and handbags when it's time to shoot.

Final Thoughts: Make It Personal

Your family photos should reflect who you are, so while these guidelines help create visually appealing images, the most important thing is to feel comfortable and confident in what you’re wearing. Whether you choose warm autumn tones, soft pastels, or rich jewel hues, the key is to coordinate rather than match—letting each family member’s personality shine through while still looking cohesive together.

By ditching the predictable white tees and jeans and embracing colour, prints, and thoughtful outfit choices, you’ll create beautiful, timeless family photos that truly stand out.

Need more guidance on outfit choices for your next family photoshoot? Get in touch—I’d love to help you plan the perfect look for your session! 

https://www.vanwestdigital.co.za/contact-us