Year-Round Styling Tips for Family Photos

From a Punta Gorda Family Photographer

There’s something so special about photographing families year after year—watching kids grow, personalities shine, and capturing the real, beautiful chaos that makes each family unique.

Brandy’s family session in Punta Gorda was the perfect mix of playful and connected. We spent the evening soaking up soft light, sharing laughter, and making space for those little in-between moments that end up meaning the most.As a photographer, I often get asked, “What should we wear for family photos?” And I get it! Choosing outfits can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re dressing multiple people for one shoot. But it doesn’t have to be stressful. With a little planning and a few simple tips, you can feel confident walking into your session—and love how your photos look on your walls for years 

Brandy did an amazing job styling her family. She started with her own outfit—a soft, flowy floral dress from Abercrombie + Fitch (and featured in our client closet!)—and built the rest of the family’s look around it. Her daughters wore coordinating dresses that perfectly complemented the pink hues of her own dress as well as the natural tones of the park, while her husband kept it casually elevated in a textured button up and khakis. The result was cohesive, relaxed, and most importantly—true to them.

5 Styling Tips for Family Photos—That Work in Every Season

Whether you’re booking a spring wildflower session or cozying up in the fall, these tips will help you plan outfits you’ll feel proud to display in your home.

1. Start With Mom’s Outfit

Let’s be honest—we’re the most critical of ourselves in photos. Start with what makes you feel confident and comfortable, and build the rest of the family’s look from there. Flowy dresses, soft knits, and pieces with texture often photograph beautifully and flatter all body types.

2. Think About Where These Photos Will Live

Are you planning to hang them in your living room? A hallway gallery wall? Choose colors and tones that will complement your home’s decor. Neutrals, earth tones, and soft pastels are timeless and easy to blend into most spaces.

3. Coordinate, Don’t Match

Gone are the days of everyone in identical white shirts and jeans (thankfully!). Instead, aim for a cohesive palette—think shades of cream, olive, dusty rose, or navy. Mix solids with subtle patterns or textures to keep it interesting without overwhelming the photo.

4. Consider the Season—But Not Too Literally

Yes, warm tones work well in the fall, and light fabrics shine in the spring. But that doesn’t mean everyone has to be in plaid or pastels. Use the season as a guiding mood, not a strict rule. Focus more on comfort + harmony with your surroundings.

5. Let the Kids Be Comfortable

If your child hates that scratchy dress or stiff shoes, it will show. Choose outfits that let them move and play. Happy, comfortable kids = better photos every single time.

Bonus Tip: Plan Ahead for Prints + Wall Art

When you’re picking outfits, think ahead to how you want to display your photos. Warm neutrals and classic tones will give you more flexibility when printing large canvases, albums, or designing a gallery wall in your home.

And if you’re not sure what looks best in your space? Bring photos of your rooms or ask me—I’m always happy to offer input based on where you plan to showcase your memories.

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Ready to Style Your Own Family Session?

Whether it’s the quiet cuddles, the belly laughs, or the goofy grins that steal the show, my goal is to make your family session easy, natural, and beautiful from start to finish.

If you’re ready to book your Punta Gorda family session, or need help planning outfits that feel like you, let’s connect. I’d be honored to help tell your story.

Contact me today or follow along on Instagram for more family photo inspiration and styling ideas!