What to Wear for Your Session
(The most-asked question I get — finally answered!)
If I had a dollar for every time someone asked, “What should we wear?” — well, I’d probably have a pretty stylish wardrobe of my own by now 😉
So let’s make it official with a full blog post answering the most important question in family photography. Because yes, what you wear does matter — but it doesn’t have to be stressful.
The golden rule?
Wear what complements your background. That’s it. But let’s break it down by session type, because what works for a clean studio look won’t work for fall leaves or Santa’s cozy setup. Ready? Let’s go!
🎨 A Modern Studio Session
Shot against soft neutral backdrops — think white, cream, or light gray — these sessions are all about timeless simplicity. Minimal props, natural moments, and the sweet connections between you and your favorite people.
So what do you wear?
💡 Neutrals, neutrals, and more neutrals.
Grays, soft blacks, off-whites, beige, cream, even muted rust tones — these are your best friends here.
🚫 Skip the bright reds, oranges, and any primary colors. They compete with the background and can distract from the real stars: YOU!
Hot tip: Decades from now, your great-great-grandkids will still think you looked amazing. Trust me — you won’t regret it.
🍁 Fall Outdoor Mini Sessions
Now forget everything I just said 😄
Fall sessions are a whole different vibe. We’re outside, surrounded by golden trees, crunchy leaves, and that cozy autumn glow.
What do you wear?
🍂 COLOR! Wear all the fall tones — rich greens, navy, burnt orange, burgundy, mustard, deep gold, jewel tones… you name it.
✨ Think: “What colors do I want to see hanging on my walls this season?” That’s your guide.
And don’t forget accessories! Hats, scarves, gloves, and cute outerwear not only keep everyone warm (hello, unpredictable NJ weather) but also add texture and fun to your photos.
Pro tip: Choose a color family — about 2–3 tones that everyone can wear happily. You don’t all need to match perfectly, just coordinate. For example: forest green + mustard + cream = fall photo magic 🍂✨
And yes, I am going to say it:
Fall for fall. Too cheesy? Maybe. Do I mean it? 100%.
🎅 Holiday Minis & Santa Sessions
Let’s be honest — this is where the wardrobe debates really begin.
Do you go full-on fancy? Or rock those cozy family pajamas?
The answer: YES. You do you.
🎁 Pajamas = cozy, casual, super sweet (especially if your kiddos are little).
🎁 Dressed up = elevated, timeless, a little more formal (great for when the kids are older or if you’re feeling fancy).
At the end of the day, it’s all about capturing the season as it feels right now. So if your 5-year-old insists it’s a pajama year and you were dreaming of a tulle dress moment… I say save the tulle for next time. Let the photos reflect the real, joyful, silly, lovable personalities in front of the lens.
Photos are a snapshot of time. Let this time be what it is — and I promise you’ll love the results.
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A Few Final Tips ✨
Lay out your outfits ahead of time and snap a photo — does it look good all together?
Avoid big logos or characters — let your faces be the focus.
Make sure everyone is comfy — if they’re itchy or tugging at clothes, it’ll show.
And always bring backup (especially for the littles!)
Ready to plan your session? 🎉
Check out the Blog section for booking links, full session details, and more wardrobe inspiration.
Can’t wait to see what you wear! 💛
