What to Wear for Your Family Photoshoot: A Helpful Guide
When planning a family photoshoot in Cambridgeshire, one of the most common questions I get asked is, “What should I wear to a photoshoot?” As a photographer, my main priority is ensuring that you feel comfortable and confident in your clothes, so your photography session truly reflects your family’s personality.
In this guide, I’ll share some tips on how to dress for a couples or family photoshoot—so you can look great, feel great, and enjoy the experience!
1. Avoid Busy Patterns
When it comes to family photoshoots, it’s best to avoid clothes with loud patterns. Patterns—especially stripes—can appear distracting and “busy” in photos, taking attention away from you. In a couples photoshoot, you want the focus to be on the connection between you and your loved one, not on overly intricate outfits.
Instead, opt for solid colours or very subtle patterns. These choices will keep the photos looking timeless and sophisticated.
2. Choose Subtle, Complementary Colours
For a natural and relaxed look, I always recommend subtle colours in family photoshoots. Simple combinations, such as jeans and a white top, can look elegant and timeless, and many clients already have these items in their wardrobe. This also helps you save on extra outfit expenses for the shoot.
- Spring/Summer: Light, pastel colours such as soft blues, pale pinks, and mint greens look fantastic.
- Autumn/Winter: Earthy tones like beige, browns, or deep reds work beautifully with the seasonal landscape, especially in the Cambridgeshire countryside.
- Holiday Photos: Christmas photos often shine in traditional colours like red or green.
Two colours I would avoid are bright pink and orange. These hues can clash with the natural backdrop of your family photoshoot and are harder to pair with other colours.
3. Wear Sensible Footwear for Outdoor Photoshoots
If your family photoshoot is in the Cambridgeshire countryside, it’s essential to wear shoes that are both practical and stylish. The terrain can be uneven or muddy, so heels or delicate shoes may not be the best choice.
- Wellington boots paired with dresses or casual outfits make for charming photos in the countryside.
- Smart boots or flat sandals (on dry days) work well for both style and comfort.
Remember, your photography session should be an enjoyable experience for you and your family, so be sure to wear shoes that allow you to move freely without worrying about sinking into mud or getting stuck!


4. Coordinate, Don’t Overdo It: Matching Outfits for Family Photoshoots
For couples photoshoots or family photoshoots, it’s always a good idea to coordinate your outfits. You don’t need to be perfectly matchy-matchy, but having a cohesive colour palette helps ensure the photos look balanced and harmonious.
- Pick colours that complement each other rather than clashing.
- Avoid outfits with logos or text, as these can distract from the overall aesthetic.
The goal is to create a relaxed and natural feel, with everyone looking like they belong together in the shot without drawing too much attention to individual outfits.
Final Thoughts: What to Wear for Your Photoshoot
When preparing for your family photoshoot, comfort and simplicity are key. By choosing subtle colours, avoiding busy patterns, and wearing sensible footwear, you’ll ensure that your Cambridgeshire photography session goes smoothly and that your family’s personality shines through.
Feel free to reach out if you have any further questions on what to wear—I’m always happy to help make your family photoshoot a memorable experience! Take a look at my instagram page to see what other families have worn.
To book a shoot please visit my contact page