What to Wear for Your Session Without Stressing (and Still Feeling Like You)

Let’s be real; picking outfits for photos can feel like you’re packing for a trip you didn’t plan. Suddenly the closet that was “fine” yesterday looks like chaos, your kids are insisting on their Paw Patrol shirts, and you’re wondering if leggings can be considered “elevated casual.” (Spoiler: they can, but let’s talk options.)

Here’s the good news: you don’t have to stress. The best photos happen when you’re comfortable, confident, and still very much you. So let’s break down some simple, mom-approved tips to make outfit planning a little less “what was I thinking” and a little more “oh wow, we nailed this.”

Lost Dutchman family photo

Keep It Warm and Neutral (but Not Boring)

Neutrals photograph beautifully because they don’t fight with the background or each other. Think soft cream, taupe, warm browns, muted greens, and gentle blues. These tones make your photos timeless instead of “what trend was that again?”

And no, neutral doesn’t mean boring. It’s about creating a palette where you and your family shine, the focus is you, not the neon orange shirt your kid begged to wear.

Simple Is Always Better

Layers, textures, and flowy fabrics work wonders. For moms, a maxi dress or flowy dress not only flatters but adds movement to your photos. Dads usually do well with a solid henley or button-up paired with jeans or chinos. For kids, soft fabrics and solid colors photograph beautifully (and let’s be honest, they’ll be comfier too).

Pro tip: skip the big logos, characters, or anything too busy, it tends to distract in photos.

Outfit Inspiration You Can Actually Use

Mamas: Flowy dresses, cozy cardigans, or jumpsuits in warm tones

Dads/Partners: Henley tees, casual button-downs, or sweaters with jeans

Kiddos: Neutral overalls, solid dresses with bloomers, or simple tees with suspenders

Maternity Sessions: Embrace the bump with a fitted dress, or go for something flowy that catches the light beautifully

Want a hack? Lay everyone’s outfits out on the bed together. If one piece sticks out like it doesn’t belong, it probably doesn’t. Swap it for something softer or in the same tone as the rest.

Gilbert family photo

Mom-Approved, Stress-Free Photos

At the end of the day, no one remembers the exact outfits; they remember the giggles, the hugs, and the way you look at each other. The clothes are just there to support the moment, not steal the spotlight.

So let yourself off the hook — choose simple, cozy, warm pieces that feel like you, and I’ll take care of the rest. Your only job? Show up, love on your people, and maybe pack snacks for the kids. (Trust me, fruit snacks save lives.)

Not sure where to start? I actually have a few outfit options available for sessions, and I’m always happy to send you some curated links to shop or browse — just let me know!

✅ Ready to book your session? Send me a message. I promise, once the outfits are sorted, everything else feels easy.