September 19, 2025
Have you ever wondered what makes some family photos stand out more than others? While there are many aspects to a beautiful family portrait, thoughtful outfit styling can make the biggest difference. Coordinating these outfits for family sessions can feel like a daunting task at first, but it doesn’t have to be! Here are three of my best tips for styling your family for your 2025 Richmond fall family photos.
3 Keys to Styling Outfits
Wear neutrals or light, muted hues.
My goal in photographing your family is to keep the focus on your connection with each other. Some outfits are beautiful for everyday wear and dressing up, but when photographed, they can take the focus away from you and your family. The color you wear can also reflect light onto your skin, and this can be either flattering or unflattering, depending on the color. I find that lighter, neutral tones and more muted shades photograph best. For fall, think white, cream, brown, and muted, dusty blues.
Include 1-2 soft or non-distracting patterns, or stick with solids.
Solid colored shirts, pants, and dresses, or soft, spaced patterns tend to photograph best. Soft, spaced patterns can also pull together family outfits beautifully when used as part of a coordinated look. Pinstripes, polka dots, some plaids, and similar patterns can be distracting when photographed and put a greater focus on your outfits rather than your connection with your family. For smaller families, it often looks best to use only one pattern, while larger families may be able to use two patterns.
Focus on choosing outfits that complement each other, rather than match.
You don’t need to stress about having everyone in the same color or style, and doing so wouldn’t add as much visual interest to your photos. It’s best to choose colors and patterns that coordinate and complement each other, rather than colors and patterns that appear to match.
Fall Family Photo Session Outfit Example
- Floral dress: Worth Collective
- Quarter zip sweater: J. Crew
- Khaki pants: J. Crew
- Kid’s overalls: Carter’s
- Kid’s bodysuit: Carter’s
- Kid’s dress: Rylee and Cru
I had so much fun putting together this outfit combination, and it’s one of my favorite things when helping families prepare for their photoshoot! From providing a session guide that walks you through outfit planning, to offering customized styling that fits your vision and elevates your photos, we can simplify the preparation that goes into creating beautiful family portraits. This fall is filled with Richmond fall mini sessions, newborn sessions, and maternity sessions, and I can’t wait to welcome these families in their fall attire!
Do you have more questions about styling your family outfits for your upcoming fall 2025 Richmond family photos, or feel like you need more guidance? When I work with families, I provide guidance on coordinating outfits that feel true to your family, complement your session location, and elevate your family portraits. Feel free to contact me today to learn more!
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