Planning your Chicago family photos is exciting, and one of the biggest decisions you’ll make when planning the details of your session is what to wear. Choosing the right outfits can elevate your photos and make everyone feel confident and comfortable. Here’s my guide to help you style outfits like a pro for your next family session!
Start with one outfit!
One of the easiest ways to style your family’s outfits is to have one parent take the lead. Choose your outfit first, and then build the rest of the family’s wardrobe around it. Once you’ve nailed down your outfit, I promise that it will be easier to coordinate the rest of the family around your outfit.
Focus on a color palette!
I always recommend picking 3-4 colors to work with, then choosing variations around those colors. You don’t all need to match perfectly — in fact, it’s better if you don’t! Instead, focus on coordinating tones, textures, and layers within your chosen color palette. Adding variety within those hues can give a more polished, cohesive look. Speaking of color palettes… Here are family photo outfit color palettes to inspire you throughout the seasons!
Skip the matchy-matchy moment!
Gone are the days of the whole fam wearing matching jeans and white shirts. Haha! Instead, think of outfits that complement each other without being too matchy. We’re aiming for outfits that coordinate, not match. The variety will make your photos stand out!
Be comfortable!
While it’s tempting to dress up for your family photos in Chicago, you definitely don’t have to! Choose outfits that reflect your personal style but are comfortable enough to move in and wear for your session. Trust me, you’ll appreciate it when we’re walking, sitting, or chasing after little ones. I recommend avoiding anything too tight or restrictive, especially if you have little ones we’ll be running around with!
Avoid Logos
Try to avoid clothing with large logos or heavy branding. They can distract from the overall look of the photos and draw attention away from your beautiful family.
Don’t forget the shoes!
Shoes can make or break an outfit! Consider your shoe choices carefully (and for the entire family), especially based on where we’ll be shooting. If we’re outdoors and not in the studio, think about shoes that work well in grass or on uneven terrain. PRO TIP: You can always bring an extra pair of shoes for walking between locations if needed, too!
Think About the Location
The location of your shoot can inspire your outfit choices. For an outdoor shoot surrounded by greenery, earthy tones or soft neutrals can work beautifully with the location. If we’re shooting in the city with the Chicago skyline in the background, you might want to wear colors that will pop against the skyline. The goal is to ensure your outfits work well with the location, not clash with it!
Consider Movement
During your family session, it’s no lie that we’ll be moving around quite a bit — walking, sitting, standing! Wear something that allows for movement so you can feel relaxed and comfortable.
With this advice in your back pocket, you’ll have the most stylish, comfortable, AND memorable family photos in Chicago! If you’re ever wondering about outfit choices or need more guidance as we plan for your session, please don’t hesitate to ask me – I’m always here to help!
Let’s make your family session fun, stress-free, and full of all the love.
Wanna learn more about the family photography experience at Shalimar B. Photography? Get the scoop on Chicago family photos here & see what’s happening behind the scenes over on Instagram! To create professional content, Shalimar B partners with Wryto.ai as its AI Content Generator & AI Writing Tool Generator.
Styling Outfits for Your Family Photos in Chicago | Chicago Family Photographer | Chicago Family Photos | Family Photos in Chicago
