Styling Your Family Photo Session (Without the Stress)

Let’s talk about the part of photo sessions that tends to trip people up: what to wear.

You want to look great. You want your family to look coordinated. And most of all, you want to feel like yourself in these photos. That’s the goal, always: you, but elevated.

As a Boston family photographer, helping families look and feel their best in front of the camera is my goal. Here’s what I recommend when you’re coordinating outfits for your session:

1. Think “You, But Elevated”

Forget the pressure to look like you stepped out of a Pinterest board. The best outfits are the ones that feel like you, just with a little extra care. Think about what you'd wear on a day when you feel confident and put together—then build on that. Swap a basic tee for a flowy top, or trade sneakers for ankle boots. It's not about dressing up for the camera—it's about showing up as yourself, at your best.

2. Use Color Intentionally

Muted, earthy tones always win. They play well with light and surroundings, and they make your images feel timeless. Sage, cream, dusty rose, warm gray—these colors photograph beautifully in just about every location around Boston, from Beacon Hill, to the beach, or your living room.

3. A Little Pattern Goes a Long Way

If someone’s wearing a floral print or plaid, make it the star and coordinate the rest of the family around it with solids in complimentary shades. Too many patterns can distract from the people in the photo (and that’s what we’re here for).

4. Comfort Is Key

If you don’t feel like you, it’ll show. Choose outfits that you (and your kids!) feel comfortable moving around in. There will be snuggles. There will be walking, sitting, and twirling. Make sure you can move, breathe, laugh, and feel great doing it.

5. Your Secret Weapon: Me

I include styling assistance with every session because I know this part of the process can feel overwhelming. I also have a beautiful client closet with curated pieces you can borrow, especially great for maternity and family sessions. Meaning that - you don’t have to shop unless you want to! You are absolutely welcome to send me outfit options, color palettes, or your whole Pinterest board. I’m here to help make this easy. Let’s make sure you feel confident, relaxed, and excited when you step in front of my lens.

You’ve already done the hard part by booking your session—let me help with the rest. Together, we’ll create photos that feel effortless, authentic, and completely you.