Family Portrait Style Guide



What to Wear for Your Family Portrait Session


So you’ve booked your family portrait session (or maybe you’re still considering it), and now comes the big question—what should everyone wear? Choosing outfits can feel overwhelming, but don’t worry! I’ve broken it down step by step to make the process simple and stress-free.


Planning Your Outfits


1. Consider the Background

Since your session will be in the beautiful Carmel or Monterey area, take inspiration from the natural surroundings when choosing your color palette:

  • Beaches – Soft neutrals like blues, greens, creams, and taupes blend beautifully with the sand and ocean.
  • Forests – Rich jewel tones pop against the greenery or go for an earthy look with khaki, brown, and green.
  • Parks in Fall – Warm neutrals with mustard yellow, orange, or muted greens complement the seasonal colors.
  • Spring Wildflowers – Soft pastels, muted pinks, lavender, and light blues will complement the natural floral tones beautifully.

Tip: Search "family portrait color palette" on Pinterest for inspiration.

2. Consider the Weather


For family photos in Monterey and Carmel, layers are key! The ocean breeze and unexpected fog can make it colder than you’d expect. Choose sweaters or jackets that you can easily add or take off. Kids especially don’t handle the cold well, so if it’s especially chilly, you might want to bring a thicker coat or blanket that they can wear in between shots. Staying warm and comfortable will help everyone look and feel their best!

A couple runs along a sandy beach with their small dog while holding hands on a cloudy day in Carmel in vacation for pictures.
A group stands together outdoors on a dirt path surrounded by autumn trees with yellow foliage and a white dog in Carmel Valley.
A tender embrace is shared between mother and daughter in a sun-dappled meadow with tall grass and golden lighting.

3. Decide on Formality

Dress up or keep it casual—whatever feels natural for your family. Comfort is key!


4. Coordinate, Don’t Match

Instead of everyone wearing the exact same outfit (like matching tops and bottoms), aim for a cohesive color palette with variety.

  • Pick a main color and add neutrals with an optional pop of color.
  • Use textures like cable knit, lace, corduroy, etc.
  • Patterns are okay—just avoid clashing.


5. Start with Mom’s Outfit

The person planning gets the first pick (usually Mom!). Choose your outfit first, then coordinate the rest. See my go-to outfit ideas below.


6. Don't Forget the Shoes

Shoes can make or break a look, so make sure they complement your outfits and are clean and in good condition.

  • Dressier looks – Boots, flats, loafers, or nice sandals work well.
  • Casual looks – Neutral-colored sneakers, slip-ons, or casual boots are great options.
  • Beach sessions – Barefoot is a fantastic option, but everyone should either go barefoot or wear shoes—no mix of both.
  • Avoid bright sneakers, athletic shoes, or anything too worn-out unless it fits the vibe of your session.
Two people share a lighthearted moment in a field with autumn trees in the background for family pictures.

7. Try Everything On

Have everyone wear their full outfit, including shoes, and move around to check comfort and fit. If anything feels uncomfortable or needs adjusting, swap it out—comfortable outfits lead to natural, relaxed photos!

8. Lay It All Out

Lay everything out on the bed or couch to see how the outfits look together. If anything stands out as too distracting or out of place, swap it for something more subtle. Keep adjusting until you're happy with the overall look.


9. Keep Outfits Together

Store everything in one place to keep it clean and organized until the session.

Parents holding kids while standing among large coastal rocks on a sunny day with the best family portrait photographer in Carmel.
A couple stands together on a coastal cliff wearing pink dress and purple shirt as waves crash on the beach below in Big Sur.

Go-To Outfit Ideas

Mom

  • Flowy dresses, midi skirts, or fitted jeans with a nice top.
  • Layer with sweaters, jackets, or statement accessories.
  • Flats, boots, or sandals. Bring comfy shoes for walking if needed.

Dad

  • Collared shirts or sweaters (no large logos).
  • Neutral-colored pants or jeans.
  • Casual but polished shoes (no gym sneakers).

Boys

  • Collared shirts, sweaters, or overalls.
  • Neutral pants or jeans.
  • Fun accessories like suspenders, hats, or bowties.
  • Clean, coordinated shoes.

Girls

  • Dresses or skirts with tights/shorts for playtime.
  • Or pants or jeans with nice top or sweater.
  • Hair accessories like headbands or clips. Helps keep hair out of the face!

Toddlers & Babies

  • Keep it simple—avoid bulky outfits that ride up.
  • Shoes optional.
  • Make sure diapers are fully covered.


A multi-generational group and their golden retriever dog pose together on a scenic beach with waves and coastline in background in Carmel.

What Not to Wear

  • No bright white (opt for cream instead).
  • No neon colors.
  • No clashing patterns.
  • No logos or character prints.
  • No identical outfits—try to avoid everyone wearing the same tops and bottoms.
  • No overly trendy pieces that may look dated later.
  • No transitional lenses (they darken in sunlight—bring clear ones!).
  • No dirty, worn-out, or mismatched shoes.

Final Tips


  • Stay true to your style—you should feel like you!
  • Use Pinterest for outfit ideas.
  • Shop your closet first—you probably already own great pieces.
  • One-stop stores like Old Navy, Gap, and Target offer coordinating collections.
  • Have fun with it!
  • Need help? Send me photos! I’m happy to offer suggestions.


Haven’t booked your session yet? Click here to get started!

A family of four stands together on a rocky beach at sunset in coordinated pastel outfits in Carmel.
A couple stands among rocky coastal formations during golden hour as waves crash against the shore in Carmel by the sea.
Family enjoying a day at a rocky beach with ocean and misty sky in the background for family portraits.
Children sitting together in tall grass on a hillside during golden hour at sunset for family portraits in Monterey.
A family enjoys a sunset moment together on rocky coastal beach in coordinating blue outfits during golden hour with Rachel Zee Photography.