What to Wear for your Family Photography Session, and How to Prepare your Kids!

Planning a family photo session in Minneapolis?  Whether you’re dreaming of golden hour by Lake Harriet in the spring, or fall leaves along the Mississippi River, one thing is certain: preparation is key to creating beautiful, timeless portraits. As a Minneapolis family photographer (and VERY seasoned client of many family photography sessions of my own!), I’ve curated this comprehensive guide to help you feel confident, look amazing, and enjoy the entire experience.  From choosing outfits, to getting the kids ready, here’s everything you need to know before stepping in front of the camera.

ACCESS TO MY CLIENT WARDROBE  

As a special bonus, all of my clients have access to my client wardrobe for no additional fee.  There are several beautiful maxi dresses to choose from, sized Small to Large.  Upon booking you will receive a link to browse the outfits and see if this is something you’d like to include into your session!

Why Styling Matters for Family Photography

FIRST AND FOREMOST — Great family photos are about connection, emotion, and storytelling. That is my #1 end all, be all! But styling plays a major role in how those stories are visually told. The right clothing can elevate your portraits from casual snapshot to frame-worthy heirlooms. Coordinated outfits help tie everyone together and keep the focus where it belongs: on your love and connection.

Step 1: Choose a Color Palette

Start with a simple color palette. Two to three coordinating colors work best—think soft neutrals, earthy tones, or muted pastels. If your home decor features soft woods and white, neutral walls, choose tones that will look beautiful when the portraits are displayed on your walls. Also, when you think about patterns vs. solids – I recommend a nice mixture of both! A small pattern on one or two family members and coordinating solids for the rest looks classy and put-together!

Remember: Coordinate, don’t match. Everyone wearing the exact same color can look flat and dated. Instead, mix tones and textures within your palette to create visual harmony.

Step 2:  Styling Tips for Timeless, Beautiful Family Pictures

Clothing choices can make or break the overall feel of your session. Here are some tried-and-true tips for a classic, cohesive look:

YES TIPS FROM A PHOTOGRAPHER:

• #1 Start with Mom!  Mom is the most important here, sorry everyone else.  
• Coordinate (but please don’t match!) colors with the rest of the family.
• Stick to soft neutrals or earthy tones for nature, go bolder if you chose a white or neutral backdrop like urban settings (think Rice Park, Como Park Conservatory, Mill City Ruins, Downtown Excelsior/Wayzata).
• Long, flowy dresses look amazing and dreamy, and they even act as a natural prop for your hands!
• A cute textured bow or headband on the little girls looks so precious!
• Short or long sleeves tend to photograph better than sleeveless or spaghetti straps.
• Wear layers (cardigans, scarves, hats – depends on the weather) to add depth and texture.
• Choose solid-colored, comfortable clothing or something with small patterns (for some, but not all of you!).
• Dress to flatter your skin tone!  (are you warm, cool, neutral?)
• Pick fabrics that reflect the season (light and airy for summer, cozy knits for fall/winter).
• Think about where the photos will live in your home—choose tones that complement your space.  

THINGS TO SHY AWAY FROM:

• Black or really dark navy are beautiful, BUT they tend to get lost in photos.
• Overly tight or baggy clothing can be unflattering.
• Bold logos, cartoon characters, or loud patterns can be distracting
• Neon or overly bright colors can cast unflattering colors onto your skin
• Showing too much skin as a family can be distracting in photos (it’s all one color!).  Avoid short shorts, crop tops, tube tops — you get it.
• Fitness watches or hair ties on wrists are a no-no, as well as phones in your pockets – remember to remove those prior to your session!

Step 3: Dress for the Season in Minneapolis

As I’m sure you very well know, Minneapolis offers VERY distinct seasonal backdrops, from snowy, snowy parks to beautiful blooming lakeshores. Dress accordingly!

Spring: Think light layers, soft, pretty florals, pastels, and neutrals (Have I ever mentioned Spring is my FAVORITE time for photos?)

Summer: It’s hot! Breathable fabrics, flowy dresses, rolled sleeves, linens work best at this time! Remember: morning shoots in the summer is an option!

Fall: Rich tones like mustard, rust, and olive are gorgeous. Add layers with a cozy knit cardigan, boots, a light jacket over your shoulders.

Winter: Neutral sweaters, textures like wool and flannel, and layered, neutral outerwear are great for cold months!

Step 5: Prepare Before Your Session

Success starts well before the camera clicks. These pre-session prep tips ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience:

Plan Ahead and Get Some Rest

• A full night’s sleep helps everyone look and feel their best.
• Lay out outfits the day before (at least!), making sure everything is clean, ironed, and fits well.
• Double-check shoes and accessories.  (Dirty shoes can RUIN a photo).

Gather Props (Optional but adds a fun, Personal touch!)

Want to add a meaningful touch? Bring a few props that tell your family story:

• A beloved toy or blanket for younger kids.
• A book you all enjoy reading together.
• A small family heirloom or object that reflects your traditions.

Tip: For younger children, pack snacks and water. Small treats like baby marshmallows or M&Ms can keep energy levels up.  

Step 6: Keep Kids Happy and Relaxed, but let them be THEM!

Happy kids = happy photos. Here are some tips to get your kids ready:

• Involve kids in outfit choices to boost buy-in.
• Bring a favorite snack or small toy.
• Make sure they’re fed and well-rested.
• Embrace silliness—those candid giggles often make the best photos!  

Don’t stress AT ALL about how your kids will behave during a photoshoot with me.  Some kids just aren’t into it – and that’s totally ok.  We can try some tried and true tricks but just let them be them!  We can capture their real selves as they are today.  

THE QUESTIONNAIRE!

When you book a family photography session with me, I send out a questionnaire 3 weeks prior to your scheduled date.  This is a very important part of the family photos process!  I ask questions about your family, but especially your kids!  What do they enjoy?  What makes them laugh or smile?  What songs do they like?  This really helps me prepare for your unique family photoshoot.  

• Do they like soccer?  I might bring a soccer ball to use during and in between shots!  
• Do they like books?  I will bring some of my daughters’ old favorites and we might take a break on a blanket!  
• Do they like a certain song?  I will ask them to sing it!  

Final Touches on the Day of the Shoot

• Remove fitness trackers, smart watches, or hair ties from wrists.
• Empty pockets—no phones, wallets, or keys.
• Groom nails—clean and neutral is best.
• Pack a hairbrush for last-minute touch-ups.

Trust (and rely on!) Your Minneapolis Family Photographer!

As your Minneapolis family photographer, I’m here to guide you every step of the way—from choosing your outfits to capturing your family’s essence with authenticity and heart. Trust me! I’ve got Location Guides, Style Guides, experience – let’s do this! My goal is to make your experience enjoyable and stress-free!

Looking for more tips or ready to book your session? REACH OUT TODAY! and let’s start planning your perfect Minneapolis family photo experience!