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What to Wear for Family Photos: 6 Powerful Tips

Tara Flannery is a  Certified Professional Photographer (CPP), Photographic Craftsman, and Master of Photography based in Houston, TX.  Tara Flannery Photography specializes in family portraits.  See more family photos in the gallery.  Contact me to book your family portrait today!

What to Wear for Family Photos

Planning family photos is exciting—but if you’ve ever stressed about what everyone should wear, you’re not alone. In fact, figuring out what to wear for family photos is the number one thing families tell me they worry about before their session.

The truth is, what you wear matters more than you think. Outfits can completely change the overall feel of your portraits. The right choices make your photos feel polished, cohesive, and timeless—while the wrong ones can become distracting or feel outdated in just a few years.

The good news? It doesn’t have to be complicated. In this guide, I’ll share simple, timeless outfit tips so you can feel confident walking into your session knowing your family will look amazing.

what to wear for Family Photos

1. Start With a Color Palette

When deciding what to wear for family photos, begin with a soft, coordinated color palette instead of picking random individual outfits.

  • Stick to 2–3 main colors + 1 accent shade for balance.
  • Neutrals and muted tones always age well—think creams, beiges, soft blues, blush, and sage.
  • Adjust for seasonal vibes: warm earth tones for fall, light pastels for spring, and richer hues for holiday sessions.

Starting here sets the tone for a cohesive, effortless look.

2. Coordinate, Don’t Match

Gone are the days of everyone wearing the same white shirts and jeans. Matching too closely can make photos feel stiff and dated.

Instead, aim for coordination:

  • Pick complementary colors across outfits rather than identical ones.
  • Vary textures and layers for visual interest.
  • Lay outfits out on the bed together to make sure they flow as a group.

The goal is for each family member to shine individually while still looking like part of the same story.

Houston Family Photos

3. Keep It Simple—Limit Busy Patterns

Bold prints and clashing patterns can distract from what matters most: your faces and connection.

  • Solid colors photograph beautifully and keep the focus on your family.
  • Small checks or thin stripes can distort on camera—use them sparingly.
  • If you love florals or patterns, have one person wear them while others stick to coordinating solids.

Simplicity almost always translates to timelessness.

4. Dress for Comfort (Especially Kids!)

If kids aren’t comfortable, it will show. The best family photos happen when everyone feels relaxed and at ease.

  • Skip itchy fabrics, stiff collars, or shoes they hate.
  • Choose breathable materials and outfits they can move in.
  • Layers like cardigans, vests, or scarves add flexibility and personality without sacrificing comfort.

When everyone feels good, it’s so much easier to capture those natural smiles and candid moments.

Houston Family Photos

5. Think Long-Term (Avoid Trendy Pieces)

When choosing what to wear for family photos, think about how you’ll feel looking back at these images five or ten years from now.

  • Avoid neon colors, bold logos, or overly trendy cuts.
  • Stick with classic silhouettes and tones that won’t date your portraits.
  • Timeless pieces ensure your images always feel beautiful on your walls and albums.

6. Accessorize Lightly

The right accessories can elevate your look—but less is more.

  • Keep jewelry simple and minimal.
  • Hats, scarves, or vests are great if they fit your family’s vibe.
  • Don’t forget shoes—neutral, clean, and coordinated choices work best.

Accessories should complement your look, not compete with it.

Houston Family Photos

Final Thoughts

Choosing what to wear for family photos doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a little planning and a focus on timeless, cohesive pieces, you’ll create images that look amazing today and stay beautiful for years to come.

And if you’re still unsure, I guide my clients through styling their sessions to make sure everyone looks and feels their best. Together, we’ll create portraits you’ll treasure forever.

Ready to book your family portrait session? Click HERE To book a consultation with me!

More Examples of What to Wear for Family Photos

Houston Family Photos

Houston Family Photos

Houston Family Photos

Houston Family Photos

Tara Flannery is a  Certified Professional Photographer (CPP), Photographic Craftsman, and Master of Photography based in Houston, TX.  Tara Flannery Photography specializes in family portraits.  See more family photos in the gallery.  Contact me to book your family portrait today!

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@taraflanneryphotography

Here’s how to fix that 👇🏻

If you’ve ever felt uncomfortable in front of the camera — especially when someone else is taking your picture — you’re not alone. It’s completely normal.

Taking professional photos can feel surprisingly vulnerable. You’re being seen, literally, and that can stir up a lot of nerves.

But here’s the thing: feeling awkward shouldn’t stop you from getting photos you love. My job as your photographer is to help ease that discomfort so you can show up as your best, most authentic self.

Here’s how I help clients do just that:

1️⃣ The Consultation

Before your session, we’ll chat about your goals, style, and how you want to be seen. I also connect clients with trusted stylists who can help you choose outfits that make you feel confident and comfortable (if needed).

2️⃣ A Calm, Supportive Environment

Whether we’re in my studio, your office, or an outdoor location, my priority is to create a space where you can relax, laugh, and genuinely enjoy the process. When you’re at ease, it always shows in your photos.

3️⃣ A Little Preparation Goes a Long Way

Get plenty of rest, hydrate, and plan your wardrobe ahead of time. When you feel prepared, you walk into your session with a completely different kind of confidence.

Because the truth is — professional photos can feel vulnerable, but with the right guidance, they can also be empowering. 💛

📩 Ready to feel comfortable and confident in front of the camera? Message me to schedule your session today.

#professionalheadshots #corporateheadshots #headshotphotographer #headshottips

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Open post by taraflanneryphotography with ID 17961749040003344
Here’s how to fix that 👇🏻 If you’ve ever felt uncomfortable in front of the camera — especially when someone else is taking your picture — you’re not alone. It’s completely normal. Taking professional photos can feel surprisingly vulnerable. You’re being seen, literally, and that can stir up a lot of nerves. But here’s the thing: feeling awkward shouldn’t stop you from getting photos you love. My job as your photographer is to help ease that discomfort so you can show up as your best, most authentic self. Here’s how I help clients do just that: 1️⃣ The Consultation Before your session, we’ll chat about your goals, style, and how you want to be seen. I also connect clients with trusted stylists who can help you choose outfits that make you feel confident and comfortable (if needed). 2️⃣ A Calm, Supportive Environment Whether we’re in my studio, your office, or an outdoor location, my priority is to create a space where you can relax, laugh, and genuinely enjoy the process. When you’re at ease, it always shows in your photos. 3️⃣ A Little Preparation Goes a Long Way Get plenty of rest, hydrate, and plan your wardrobe ahead of time. When you feel prepared, you walk into your session with a completely different kind of confidence. Because the truth is — professional photos can feel vulnerable, but with the right guidance, they can also be empowering. 💛 📩 Ready to feel comfortable and confident in front of the camera? Message me to schedule your session today. #professionalheadshots #corporateheadshots #headshotphotographer #headshottips

Here`s what you can expect at a headshot session with me 👇🏻

✨ Pre-session consultation to understand your brand and team dynamics
📋 Wardrobe guidance that aligns with your company culture
🎯 Multiple looks and expressions to give everyone options
⏰ Efficient workflow that respects everyone`s busy schedules
💼 Professional retouching that maintains authenticity
📱 Digital gallery delivery within 48 hours

Be honest—when was the last time your team photos actually represented who you are today? Most companies wait 3-5 years between updates, but your people (and your business) evolve much faster than that.

Your team`s headshots aren`t just photos—they`re the first impression potential clients, partners, and talent get of your company culture. When they`re outdated or inconsistent, what message does that send?

Ready to show the world the dynamic team you`ve built? Let`s create imagery that matches your company`s growth. 🚀

#headshots #corporatephotography #teamheadshots #professionalphotography #houstonphotographer

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Open post by taraflanneryphotography with ID 18097105072802709
Here's what you can expect at a headshot session with me 👇🏻 ✨ Pre-session consultation to understand your brand and team dynamics 📋 Wardrobe guidance that aligns with your company culture 🎯 Multiple looks and expressions to give everyone options ⏰ Efficient workflow that respects everyone's busy schedules 💼 Professional retouching that maintains authenticity 📱 Digital gallery delivery within 48 hours Be honest—when was the last time your team photos actually represented who you are today? Most companies wait 3-5 years between updates, but your people (and your business) evolve much faster than that. Your team's headshots aren't just photos—they're the first impression potential clients, partners, and talent get of your company culture. When they're outdated or inconsistent, what message does that send? Ready to show the world the dynamic team you've built? Let's create imagery that matches your company's growth. 🚀 #headshots #corporatephotography #teamheadshots #professionalphotography #houstonphotographer

I get it—parents worry their kids won’t sit still, won’t smile, or will get tired too quickly. But here’s the truth: that’s exactly what makes the photos beautiful.

✨ We start playfully — no pressure, just letting your kids warm up at their own pace.
📸 I’ll guide you into natural interactions, like walking, snuggling, or playing together.
😊 Expect tickle fights, giggles, and even a little silliness—it’s all part of the fun.
🍂 Kids need breaks? We roll with it. The best smiles usually come after they’ve had a chance to relax.
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Every child gets their moment to shine—without forcing fake poses.

There’s no “perfect behavior” required. The most memorable family portraits happen when your kids are just being themselves—and you’re right there with them.

Because this isn’t about stiff poses or saying “cheese.” It’s about capturing the real magic of your family in this season of life.

📩 Ready for a session your kids will actually enjoy? DM me to get started!

#familyportraits #behindthescenes #whattoexpect #thewoodlandstxphotographer #familyphotosession

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Open post by taraflanneryphotography with ID 18058614485560833
I get it—parents worry their kids won’t sit still, won’t smile, or will get tired too quickly. But here’s the truth: that’s exactly what makes the photos beautiful. ✨ We start playfully — no pressure, just letting your kids warm up at their own pace. 📸 I’ll guide you into natural interactions, like walking, snuggling, or playing together. 😊 Expect tickle fights, giggles, and even a little silliness—it’s all part of the fun. 🍂 Kids need breaks? We roll with it. The best smiles usually come after they’ve had a chance to relax. 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Every child gets their moment to shine—without forcing fake poses. There’s no “perfect behavior” required. The most memorable family portraits happen when your kids are just being themselves—and you’re right there with them. Because this isn’t about stiff poses or saying “cheese.” It’s about capturing the real magic of your family in this season of life. 📩 Ready for a session your kids will actually enjoy? DM me to get started! #familyportraits #behindthescenes #whattoexpect #thewoodlandstxphotographer #familyphotosession

Here`s the hard truth about acting headshots that most photographers won`t tell you 👇🏻

If a casting director can`t immediately see what role you`d play just by looking at your photo, you`ve already lost the audition.

Corporate headshots show professionalism. Acting headshots show CHARACTER—and that requires a completely different approach.

Most actors think they need one `perfect` headshot with a generic smile. But casting directors aren`t looking for pleasant—they`re looking for types. The lawyer, the best friend, the villain. And they need to see it instantly.

That`s why specificity wins:
✨ Confident and commanding for lawyer roles
✨ Warm and approachable for parent characters
✨ Hint of mischief for villain parts

But here`s the bigger mistake—thinking one headshot is enough. One headshot = one role. Multiple headshots = multiple opportunities.

You need range: commercial-friendly, dramatic, playful, maybe edgy. When casting directors see variety, they`re thinking about how you fit their ENTIRE project.

Not every photographer understands acting industry standards. When I work with actors, we plan multiple `looks` in one session—because every shot needs to feel intentional.

Ready to create acting headshots that actually get you cast? Let`s plan a session that shows your full range.

#actingheadshots #headshots #professionalheadshots #houstonphotographer #modelingheadshots

3 0
Open post by taraflanneryphotography with ID 18086244871763501
Here's the hard truth about acting headshots that most photographers won't tell you 👇🏻 If a casting director can't immediately see what role you'd play just by looking at your photo, you've already lost the audition. Corporate headshots show professionalism. Acting headshots show CHARACTER—and that requires a completely different approach. Most actors think they need one 'perfect' headshot with a generic smile. But casting directors aren't looking for pleasant—they're looking for types. The lawyer, the best friend, the villain. And they need to see it instantly. That's why specificity wins: ✨ Confident and commanding for lawyer roles ✨ Warm and approachable for parent characters ✨ Hint of mischief for villain parts But here's the bigger mistake—thinking one headshot is enough. One headshot = one role. Multiple headshots = multiple opportunities. You need range: commercial-friendly, dramatic, playful, maybe edgy. When casting directors see variety, they're thinking about how you fit their ENTIRE project. Not every photographer understands acting industry standards. When I work with actors, we plan multiple 'looks' in one session—because every shot needs to feel intentional. Ready to create acting headshots that actually get you cast? Let's plan a session that shows your full range. #actingheadshots #headshots #professionalheadshots #houstonphotographer #modelingheadshots

🎥 Ever wondered what it’s actually like during a headshot session?

If the idea of being in front of the camera makes you feel a little awkward or unsure, you`re not alone. Most of my clients come in feeling that way — but leave saying, “That was way more fun than I expected!”

Here`s a sneak peak at how I will guide you every step of the way — from how to stand, where to look, even how to tilt your chin — so you never have to wonder what to do. ✨

My goal? To make you feel confident, comfortable, and genuinely like yourself. And the best part is, the results speak for themselves.

📩 Ready for headshots that actually feel like you? Let’s talk.

#headshots #businessheadshots #corporateheadshots #behindthescenes #micdup

11 1
Open post by taraflanneryphotography with ID 18079579940033669
🎥 Ever wondered what it’s actually like during a headshot session? If the idea of being in front of the camera makes you feel a little awkward or unsure, you're not alone. Most of my clients come in feeling that way — but leave saying, “That was way more fun than I expected!” Here's a sneak peak at how I will guide you every step of the way — from how to stand, where to look, even how to tilt your chin — so you never have to wonder what to do. ✨ My goal? To make you feel confident, comfortable, and genuinely like yourself. And the best part is, the results speak for themselves. 📩 Ready for headshots that actually feel like you? Let’s talk. #headshots #businessheadshots #corporateheadshots #behindthescenes #micdup

- STAY IN TOUCH -

Serving the Greater Houston, Texas Area

tara@taraflannery.com

713-412-5437

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FloDesk FREE STYLE GUIDE

Tara is a member of the Professional Photographers of America PPA.
Tara is a Certified Professional Photographer.
Tara is a member of TPPA Texas Professional Photographer's Association.
Tara has earned her Master of Photography degree.
Tara has earned her Photographic Craftsman certification.
Tara is a member of the Professional Photographers Guild of Houston PPGH.