Tips for Choosing Outfits for a Studio Photography Session

As a Marin and SF based family photographer with a studio in Sausalito, one of the most common questions I get before a shoot is: “What should we wear?” The great news about a studio session is that my all-white backdrop is super versatile, so you can go in almost any style direction you like. But if you're looking for some structure, these tips for choosing outfits for a studio photography session will help you pick something that looks amazing in photos and feels good to wear.

Here’s how to get it right:

• Keep it simple, but not boring
  Solid colors are always a win, but think about adding visual interest through texture, subtle patterns, or accessories. A chunky knit, soft gauze, or even a small floral or stripe can bring depth without being distracting.

• Think about how it moves
  You'll be sitting, standing, playing, and snuggling during your session, so make sure your outfit is one you can move in easily. Try it out ahead of time and see how it sits when you bend down or twist around. This is especially important with newborns, as you’ll be on a bed for part of the time, but all of my families end up on the floor at some point, so make sure your outfits work seated no matter the type of session!

• Shoes optional
  Many families go barefoot in the studio because it’s such a relaxed, cozy vibe. But if you’re keeping shoes on, just make sure they’re clean and fit the tone of your outfit. Heels are totally fine if you can move around in them while wrangling kids!

• Match the vibe, not the outfits
  Avoid being too “matchy-matchy,” but do aim for cohesive vibes. If your kids are in sweaters, don’t show up in a sundress. If Dad is dressed sharp, don’t wear worn-in converse.

• Don’t overthink the weather
  Since the studio is climate-controlled, you can wear whatever you’re comfortable in. Just skip bulky coats or winter gear as they’ll photograph awkwardly and can quickly look out of place.

• Neutrals, brights, or bolds…anything goes
  The all-white background makes almost any color look great. Whether you’re into earth tones, jewel tones, or pastels, they’ll all pop against the timeless backdrop. Feel free to mix and match across the family for variety. If you are at a loss for what palette so go with, find an outfit you look killer in, or something you love for one of the kids, and build around that. A pattern is a great anchor to build around. Then head to pinterest and type in the main colors (for example, color palette for green and tan) and a whole bunch of options will pop up for you to use!

• Coordinate for the whole crew
  Lay everyone’s outfits out together beforehand and check how they look as a group. This helps you spot any outliers or clashing tones early. Need more outfit planning help? This post has even more visual inspo and tips!

As a seasoned San Francisco photographer with many years helping families and planning my own outfits, I love helping families feel confident before stepping in front of the camera. These tips for choosing outfits for a studio photography session will help you feel great walking in the door—and even better walking out with timeless images you'll love forever.

Whether you want to keep it casual or get a little fancy, just be sure your outfit tells the story of your family in this moment. And if you’re not sure? Reach out—I’m always happy to help you plan.