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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choices make your photos feel polished, cohesive, and timeless—while the wrong ones can become distracting or feel outdated in just a few years.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

Behind every great brand photo is a whole lot of collaboration, laughter, and intention.

You don’t need to be a model—you need a photographer who knows how to guide, coach, and bring out the energy that aligns with your brand.

In Part 2 of Danielle’s mic’d-up session, we’re showing more behind-the-scenes of what it really looks like when strategy and personality come together on camera.

✨ This is branding photography done with purpose.

Ready to create content that actually feels like you? Let’s build your visual story.

🔗 Click the link in my bio to book a FREE CONSULTATION.

#micdupphotography #brandingsession #brandingphotographer #brandingforbusinesses #professionalbranding

4 1
Open post by taraflanneryphotography with ID 17958695598020874
Behind every great brand photo is a whole lot of collaboration, laughter, and intention. You don’t need to be a model—you need a photographer who knows how to guide, coach, and bring out the energy that aligns with your brand. In Part 2 of Danielle’s mic’d-up session, we’re showing more behind-the-scenes of what it really looks like when strategy and personality come together on camera. ✨ This is branding photography done with purpose. Ready to create content that actually feels like you? Let’s build your visual story. 🔗 Click the link in my bio to book a FREE CONSULTATION. #micdupphotography #brandingsession #brandingphotographer #brandingforbusinesses #professionalbranding

Marketing managers, be honest 👇🏻

How consistent are your team`s LinkedIn profiles right now?

Take a quick scroll through your company`s employee profiles.

Are you seeing:
→ Different backgrounds and lighting styles?
→ Photos that look like they`re from different decades?
→ Some professional shots mixed with casual selfies?
→ A few people still using their college graduation photo?

Here`s what happens when your team headshots are all over the place: Your company looks disorganized. Less credible. Less professional than your competitors.

Your team`s visual consistency directly impacts how clients perceive your business.

The solution? Event-based headshot sessions that give your entire team cohesive, professional imagery in one efficient appointment.

✨ Same lighting, same style, same professional quality
✨ Everyone photographed at your office during a corporate event
✨ Private galleries so each team member controls their image
✨ Done in hours, not months of scheduling chaos

Is your team due for updated headshots? Let`s make it happen.

Ready to elevate your team`s professional presence? Link in bio to schedule your consultation.

#teamheadshots #corporatebranding #marketingmanager #corporatephotography #thewoodlandstx #professionalheadshots

2 1
Open post by taraflanneryphotography with ID 17911161408291137
Marketing managers, be honest 👇🏻 How consistent are your team's LinkedIn profiles right now? Take a quick scroll through your company's employee profiles. Are you seeing: → Different backgrounds and lighting styles? → Photos that look like they're from different decades? → Some professional shots mixed with casual selfies? → A few people still using their college graduation photo? Here's what happens when your team headshots are all over the place: Your company looks disorganized. Less credible. Less professional than your competitors. Your team's visual consistency directly impacts how clients perceive your business. The solution? Event-based headshot sessions that give your entire team cohesive, professional imagery in one efficient appointment. ✨ Same lighting, same style, same professional quality ✨ Everyone photographed at your office during a corporate event ✨ Private galleries so each team member controls their image ✨ Done in hours, not months of scheduling chaos Is your team due for updated headshots? Let's make it happen. Ready to elevate your team's professional presence? Link in bio to schedule your consultation. #teamheadshots #corporatebranding #marketingmanager #corporatephotography #thewoodlandstx #professionalheadshots

Doesn`t this look fun? 🤩 📸

The posing cues. The lighting adjustments. The real-time direction that turns good shots into professional brand assets.

Here`s what most business owners don`t realize: branding sessions aren`t just about getting photos - they`re about creating strategic content you`ll actually use across your website, social media, and marketing materials.

One efficient session = months of professional imagery that elevates your entire business presence.

✨ Ready to build your brand`s visual library?

🔗 Click the link in my bio where you can book a FREE CONSULTATION or snag my BRANDING GUIDE.

18 2
Open post by taraflanneryphotography with ID 18108268315729857
Doesn't this look fun? 🤩 📸 The posing cues. The lighting adjustments. The real-time direction that turns good shots into professional brand assets. Here's what most business owners don't realize: branding sessions aren't just about getting photos - they're about creating strategic content you'll actually use across your website, social media, and marketing materials. One efficient session = months of professional imagery that elevates your entire business presence. ✨ Ready to build your brand's visual library? 🔗 Click the link in my bio where you can book a FREE CONSULTATION or snag my BRANDING GUIDE.

This one is for the corporate admins 👇🏻

Is coordinating individual headshot appointments your nightmare?

Here`s what usually happens:

❌ Chasing down 15+ team members for availability
❌ Booking separate sessions across multiple weeks
❌ Dealing with cancellations and rescheduling chaos
❌ Inconsistent photos because everyone went at different times
❌ The whole process takes MONTHS

Here`s the solution I built specifically for this problem:

✅ Event-based headshot station at YOUR office
✅ Everyone photographed in one efficient session
✅ Consistent lighting and style across your entire team
✅ Private proof galleries so each person controls their image
✅ The whole thing is done in hours, not months

You handle the calendar invite. I handle everything else.

Is your team due for updated headshots? Let`s make it happen without the scheduling chaos.

DM me or use the link in bio to schedule a consultation. Let me walk you through exactly how this works.

#corporateheadshots #corporatephotography #teamheadshots #thewoodlandstx #marketingmanager #teamphotos

6 0
Open post by taraflanneryphotography with ID 18119395342562489
This one is for the corporate admins 👇🏻 Is coordinating individual headshot appointments your nightmare? Here's what usually happens: ❌ Chasing down 15+ team members for availability ❌ Booking separate sessions across multiple weeks ❌ Dealing with cancellations and rescheduling chaos ❌ Inconsistent photos because everyone went at different times ❌ The whole process takes MONTHS Here's the solution I built specifically for this problem: ✅ Event-based headshot station at YOUR office ✅ Everyone photographed in one efficient session ✅ Consistent lighting and style across your entire team ✅ Private proof galleries so each person controls their image ✅ The whole thing is done in hours, not months You handle the calendar invite. I handle everything else. Is your team due for updated headshots? Let's make it happen without the scheduling chaos. DM me or use the link in bio to schedule a consultation. Let me walk you through exactly how this works. #corporateheadshots #corporatephotography #teamheadshots #thewoodlandstx #marketingmanager #teamphotos

There’s a reason I reach for this lens during branding sessions.

I get asked about camera gear all the time — especially during branding sessions — and while the tools matter, how they support the experience matters more.

I love using a zoom lens for portraits because it gives me flexibility. I can adjust framing and perspective without breaking the flow of the session, which helps my client stay relaxed, confident, and present.

That range lets me focus less on repositioning and more on connection, expression, and creating images that feel natural and intentional.

Every technical choice I make is about creating an effortless experience — not just a sharp photo.

If you’re a photographer just starting out and trying to decide where to invest first, remember this: the “best” lens is the one that supports how you shoot and how you want your clients to feel.

📸 Fellow photographers — what lens do you reach for most during portrait sessions?

Drop it in the comments 👇🏻 I’d love to hear.

#behindthescenes #photographygear #professionalheadshots #thewoodlandsphotographer #brandingphotography

16 1
Open post by taraflanneryphotography with ID 18332658136243342
There’s a reason I reach for this lens during branding sessions. I get asked about camera gear all the time — especially during branding sessions — and while the tools matter, how they support the experience matters more. I love using a zoom lens for portraits because it gives me flexibility. I can adjust framing and perspective without breaking the flow of the session, which helps my client stay relaxed, confident, and present. That range lets me focus less on repositioning and more on connection, expression, and creating images that feel natural and intentional. Every technical choice I make is about creating an effortless experience — not just a sharp photo. If you’re a photographer just starting out and trying to decide where to invest first, remember this: the “best” lens is the one that supports how you shoot and how you want your clients to feel. 📸 Fellow photographers — what lens do you reach for most during portrait sessions? Drop it in the comments 👇🏻 I’d love to hear. #behindthescenes #photographygear #professionalheadshots #thewoodlandsphotographer #brandingphotography

Looking for a job right now? This matters more than most people realize 👇🏻

In a competitive job market, your professional photo often makes the first impression — before your résumé is read, before an interview is scheduled, before you ever get the chance to speak.

And the truth is, not all photos communicate the same thing.

A strong headshot signals confidence, credibility, and readiness — without feeling stiff or overproduced. It shows that you take your career seriously and understand how you want to be perceived.

What actually works:

✅ Professional lighting that looks natural, not filtered
✅ Images that translate across LinkedIn, email signatures, and company profiles
✅ Guidance on wardrobe and posing so you feel confident and comfortable
✅ A photo that reflects who you are now, not who you were a few years ago

Whether you’re entering the workforce, changing roles, or positioning yourself for what’s next, your professional image plays a bigger role than you think.

If you’re ready to show up with clarity and confidence, I’d love to help.

📩 Link in bio to book your session.

#careeradvice #professionalheadshots #linkedintips #corporatelife #firstjob #careerdevelopment #thewoodlandstx

7 0
Open post by taraflanneryphotography with ID 17949969360070700
Looking for a job right now? This matters more than most people realize 👇🏻 In a competitive job market, your professional photo often makes the first impression — before your résumé is read, before an interview is scheduled, before you ever get the chance to speak. And the truth is, not all photos communicate the same thing. A strong headshot signals confidence, credibility, and readiness — without feeling stiff or overproduced. It shows that you take your career seriously and understand how you want to be perceived. What actually works: ✅ Professional lighting that looks natural, not filtered ✅ Images that translate across LinkedIn, email signatures, and company profiles ✅ Guidance on wardrobe and posing so you feel confident and comfortable ✅ A photo that reflects who you are now, not who you were a few years ago Whether you’re entering the workforce, changing roles, or positioning yourself for what’s next, your professional image plays a bigger role than you think. If you’re ready to show up with clarity and confidence, I’d love to help. 📩 Link in bio to book your session. #careeradvice #professionalheadshots #linkedintips #corporatelife #firstjob #careerdevelopment #thewoodlandstx

- 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.