Planning a family or group portrait session? One of the most important things to consider is what to wear. The right outfit choices can make your photos look cohesive, polished, and timeless. Here’s how to coordinate outfits for your next group photoshoot without looking too “matchy-matchy.”
1. Start with a Colour Palette
Instead of everyone wearing the same colour, choose a coordinating colour scheme. Stick to 2-3 complementary colours and mix them across different outfits.
📌 Best Colour Combos:
✔️ Neutrals & Earth Tones – Soft whites, beige, olive, rust, and navy for a timeless, natural look.
✔️ Pastels & Light Hues – Blush, sky blue, and soft greys for a light and airy feel.
✔️ Jewel Tones – Burgundy, emerald, and mustard for a bold yet elegant aesthetic.
2. Avoid Overly Matching Outfits
While matching outfits can be fun, too much uniformity can look outdated. Instead, opt for coordinating pieces in different styles and shades. For example, if one person wears a patterned dress, others can wear solid colours that match the pattern.
📌 Example: If one person wears a navy floral dress, others can wear solid tones like beige, rust, or navy to tie everything together.
3. Mix Textures & Layers
Layering adds depth and interest to your photos. Think about incorporating knit sweaters, denim jackets, scarves, or soft linen fabrics to create dimension.
📌 Tip: Mixing textures—like lace, wool, denim, or cotton—makes group photos look more dynamic and visually appealing.
4. Keep Patterns to a Minimum
Patterns can work, but too many can be distracting. If someone in the group is wearing a print, keep everyone else in solid, coordinating tones to maintain balance.
📌 Best Practices:
✔️ Small & Subtle Patterns – Plaid, florals, or polka dots in muted tones work well.
✔️ Limit Busy Prints – Avoid large, bold prints or neon colours that can overpower the image.
5. Consider the Location & Season
Your outfit choices should complement the setting and time of year.
📌 Seasonal Outfit Ideas:
✔️ Spring & Summer – Light fabrics, pastels, soft florals, and breathable fabrics.
✔️ Autumn & Winter – Warm layers, rich tones, textured fabrics, and cozy knits.
📌 Best Locations & Their Ideal Outfit Tones:
✔️ Beach Session – Flowy fabrics, soft neutrals, blues, and whites.
✔️ Garden or Park – Earthy tones, pastels, and soft prints.
✔️ Urban/City Vibes – Bold colours, structured outfits, and modern textures.
6. Shoes & Accessories Matter
Footwear can make or break an outfit. Stick to neutral, polished shoes that won’t clash with the overall look.
📌 Best Choices:
✔️ Neutral boots, sandals, or dress shoes for a timeless feel.
✔️ Minimalist jewelry, hats, or subtle accessories to complement the outfits.
7. Comfort is Key
Make sure everyone feels comfortable and confident in their outfits. If someone isn’t comfortable, it will show in the photos.
📌 Tip: Do a quick try-on session at home to ensure everyone’s outfit fits well and looks good together.
Final Thoughts: Creating a Timeless Look
A well-coordinated outfit palette helps your family or group photos look effortless, stylish, and polished. Keep it simple, mix textures, and focus on colours that complement your location and theme.
📍 Need expert advice on planning your photoshoot outfits? Let’s create a look that fits your style—book your session today! (insert link)