What to Wear for Holiday Family Photos
Updated: 2 days ago
"What should we wear?" is hands-down the question I get asked most before a family session, and it's the part that stresses parents out the most. Good news: it's easier than you think. Here's my simple, no-fuss guide to dressing your family for holiday photos.
Coordinate, don't match
The matching-white-shirts-and-jeans look had its moment. Today, the most beautiful family photos come from outfits that go together without being identical.
Start by picking a palette of two or three colors, plus a neutral. Then let everyone wear something within that palette. It looks pulled-together without looking like a uniform.
Holiday color palettes that photograph beautifully
Classic and cozy: deep red or burgundy, cream, and soft gray.
Winter elegant: navy, ivory, and a touch of silver or gold.
Evergreen: forest green, camel, and cream.
Soft and timeless: blush, oatmeal, and warm white.
Red and green together can feel very "costume" if they're both bright. If you love that Christmas look, choose one as your main color and use the other as a small accent, like a sweater, a bow, or a scarf.
Start with one outfit
Here's my favorite trick: choose one outfit first, usually mom's or a daughter's dress, since it's often the hardest piece to find. Pull your colors from that outfit, then build everyone else around it.
What photographs best
Texture: chunky knits, velvet, corduroy, lace, and tweed add depth and look so cozy in the studio.
Solid colors or subtle patterns: a small plaid or floral is lovely. Let one or two people wear the pattern, not everyone.
Layers: cardigans, vests, and jackets add interest and give us options during the session.
Shoes matter! Shoes often show up in full-length photos, so skip the scuffed sneakers when you can.
What to avoid
Logos, characters, and big graphics. They pull attention away from faces.
Neon or very bright colors. They can cast color onto skin.
Anything uncomfortable. If your kids hate how something feels, it'll show in their faces. Comfort wins every time.
A few tips for the kids
Do a test run. Have them try everything on a few days ahead so there are no surprises.
Bring a backup outfit. Spills happen, especially on the way to the studio!
Dress little ones last. Snacks in the car, outfits on at the studio. Trust me.
Need help? That's what I'm here for
Every session starts with a quick phone consultation, and wardrobe is one of the things we talk through together. Send me photos of what you're considering and I'll happily help you pull it all together.
If you haven't booked your holiday session yet, now's the time. My gallery turnaround is about 5–7 days, so photos taken by mid-November are perfect for holiday cards.
Want Santa in your photos too? My Santa Mini Sessions are just two days this year, November 14 & 15, for $200. See the Santa mini details or book your Santa mini session before spots fill up.
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