Clothing Ideas for Family Photography

Many people start to panic when they think about coordinating the family wardrobe when scheduling family photo sessions. Without help, some families might show up dressed head to toe in the same color and outfits. Keep family portraits visually appealing by knowing how to coordinate a good family wardrobe.

• Choose a single color, not a single outfit. Outfits do not have to match each other exactly because this stifles the unique style of each individual. Choose a color such as salmon, purple or red and have everyone wear one item with that color. It can even be as simple as wearing a scarf, necklace or color-coordinated shoe laces.


• Make sure all the outfits are in the same season. Don't let Uncle Steve show up in a tank top and shorts while everyone else in bundled in a jacket. Choose what season the picture will portray, and have everyone choose clothes to match that season.


• Stick to brown or black shoes. Shoes are one of the quickest ways to date a photo. Wearing the current shoe fads in your photo can make the photo look silly 10 years later. Adhere to classic shoe colors such as black or brown. Women should wear close-toed shoes. Everyone should leave the flip-flops and sandals at home.


• Think about where the picture will be displayed. If you plan on enlarging the picture to display in your home, think about the colors of you home. Try to match your clothing to best blend into the current look of your home.


• Skip the white. White can make people's skin and the photo backgrounds appear washed out. White clothes should only be used with a photographer who is confident she can adjust the camera settings to make the white dimmer without washing out the entire photo.