What to Wear for Your Family Photos.

Hi, I’m Michelle, and I’m obsessed with helping families feel confident, connected, and beautiful in front of the camera. One of the most common questions I hear before a session is:

“What should we wear?”

If you’re feeling unsure or overwhelmed, you’re not alone—and you’re in the right place. Whether we’re meeting in a field near Lusby, by the water in Solomons, or under the trees in St. Mary’s City, here are my best tips to help you choose outfits that photograph beautifully and feel like you.

1. Start with Mom’s Outfit First

This is your moment too, and what you wear sets the tone for the whole family’s look. Choose something that makes you feel confident and comfortable—long, flowy dresses work beautifully with movement and add elegance to outdoor portraits.

Pro tip: Soft fabrics and earthy or neutral tones always look timeless in golden light.

2. Coordinate, Don’t Match

No more matching white shirts and jeans (promise!). Instead, choose 2–3 main colors that complement each other and build everyone’s outfits around that palette. Think:

• Mom in a soft sage dress

• Dad in khaki with a cream henley

• Kids in muted tones like beige, soft green, or dusty blue

Patterns are fine—just keep them subtle and avoid clashing prints.

3. Keep It Classic and Comfortable

You’ll love your photos even more when they feel timeless. Avoid neon colors, loud logos, or anything too trendy. Choose clothes that are flattering but also allow for movement, especially if we’re running around with little ones.

Comfort = confidence, and confidence always shines through in your portraits.

4. Dress for the Season

Southern Maryland has such beautiful seasonal color—so lean into it! Here are some ideas:

• Spring: Soft pastels, cream, blush, dusty blue

• Summer: Light neutrals, airy fabrics, soft greens or peach

• Fall: Rust, olive, mustard, navy, warm neutrals

• Winter: Deep jewel tones like burgundy, emerald, charcoal

Layers like cardigans, denim jackets, or scarves can also add texture and visual interest.

5. Focus on the Details

• Clean shoes (or bare feet for beach sessions!)

• Iron out wrinkles ahead of time

• Keep accessories simple and meaningful

• Lay out all the outfits a day or two before the session to ease the stress

And don’t forget to dress yourself with love. When you feel good, it shows.

Want My Full Styling Guide?

When you book a session with me, you’ll get my full wardrobe and styling guide, complete with visual inspiration and outfit ideas for the whole family. I’m here to help every step of the way—from color palettes to location scouting—so all you have to do is show up and love on your people.

Ready to create something beautiful?

Let’s chat about your custom family session.