Planning what to wear for a Family photoshoot can feel daunting, especially with the excitement of capturing meaningful family moments. I completely understand—many people feel uneasy about being in front of the camera but still cherish the idea of having beautiful photos to look back on. As a Bendigo-based lifestyle and wedding photographer, I make it my goal to help my clients feel comfortable and prepared and provide outfit tips, whether for a family photo session, a lifestyle shoot, or a wedding day.
For this reason, I provide a detailed style guide to help clients plan their outfits. This guide gives insight into what works best in photos, so you can feel confident in what you’re wearing. Here are a few essential tips to help you choose outfits that not only look great on camera but also feel natural and comfortable.
1. *Comfort First*
When it comes to outfits for your family photo shoot, comfort is key. Choosing clothes that make you feel relaxed and comfortable helps ease any nervousness about being in front of the camera. Take inspiration from The Van Zyl family shoot below, who chose a natural palette of whites and denim. By prioritizing comfort, they were able to enjoy the session fully, with their genuine smiles and personalities shining through in every shot.
2. *Consider the Season and Location*
Your outfit choices should reflect the season and location of the shoot. In the colder months, cozy layers work best, while lighter fabrics suit warmer seasons. If your photo shoot is by the beach, skip the high heels and consider bringing a towel for sitting near the water. For fields or forests, bring insect repellent to keep everyone at ease. Dressing for the environment and weather will keep everyone comfortable and present in the moment.
3. *Bring More Than One Outfit (Recommended for engagement shoot)*
For some shoots, mostly engagement shoots, having a couple of outfit options can add variety to the photos. This doesn’t mean you need a full wardrobe change but, if desired, you can incorporate different looks.
4. *Show Your Personality*
Your photoshoot should be a true reflection of you. Don’t hesitate to add personal touches that showcase who you are. Your wardrobe should capture your personality as much as your smile does! For example, Chanté chose outfits for her daughter Willow that reflected her personality perfectly. Willow’s favorite boots and her little dungarees highlighted her sassy, adventurous side, making the photos feel authentic and fun. When you bring a piece of yourself into your outfit, it makes the photos more meaningful and helps capture genuine moments.
5. *Choose a Natural Tone Palette*
I often recommend keeping your color palette within natural or neutral tones. This doesn’t mean everything has to be the same color; instead, try to stay within complementary shades that blend well. Soft hues and earthy colors, like tan, olive, cream, or denim, create a harmonious look that complements the natural beauty of outdoor locations around Bendigo. Remember, keeping your palette consistent helps ensure your outfit doesn’t distract from the emotions and connections we’re capturing.
6. *Add Accessories for Extra Depth*
Accessories can be a wonderful addition to any shoot, adding layers of personality and helping you relax in front of the camera. They can also serve as fun props to engage with! Consider something you love—whether it’s a favorite hat, a special blanket, or bubbles to keep the kids entertained. These small details can make a big difference, adding warmth and interest to your photos while helping you feel comfortable.
7. *Consider Hair and Makeup*
For the day of your shoot, a little effort with hair and makeup can go a long way. Whether you choose a natural look or want to dress things up, adding just a touch of makeup or styling your hair helps highlight your natural features and keeps you looking fresh and polished. If you don’t usually wear makeup, a light foundation or simple mascara can enhance your natural beauty without feeling too done-up.
At the end of the day, the most beautiful photos come from genuine moments. Dressing in a way that reflects who you are will bring out your natural confidence and joy, which shines through in every image.
As a wedding photographer based in Bendigo, I love helping clients find the perfect mix of style and personality to create photos they’ll cherish forever.
