One of the most common questions I get as a photographer is: What should we wear? It’s such an important part of creating beautiful, lasting images. When you’re investing in professional photos, especially in the gorgeous rural backdrops we’re lucky to have here from spring through early winter, your clothing choices should complement—not compete with—your surroundings.
The goal is to look polished yet comfortable, and most importantly, to feel like yourself. Here’s my best advice to help you show up feeling confident and camera-ready.
Think in Terms of the Season
The colors of the natural world change dramatically as we move from spring to summer, into fall, and toward winter. You’ll want to wear tones that work with the landscape, not against it.
- Spring: Soft pastels, creamy whites, dusty blues, sage green, light taupes. Spring in rural areas is all about fresh greenery, blooming trees, and soft light. Muted, lighter tones will photograph beautifully here.
- Summer: Earthy neutrals, soft terracottas, olive greens, warm beiges, chambray, ivory. Summer often brings golden fields and vibrant greens. Avoid neon or overly bright colors—they’ll steal the attention from the natural beauty around you.
- Fall: Warm, rich tones like rust, mustard, deep greens, navy, maroon, and soft browns. Fall is when the landscape is full of warm golden hues, and these colors will feel perfectly in sync with the season.
- Early Winter: Moody neutrals, charcoal, cream, deep burgundy, forest green, camel. The scenery leans toward bare trees, soft browns, and cooler skies, so these tones feel cozy and grounded.
Coordinate, Don’t Match
Gone are the days of everyone wearing identical white shirts and jeans. Instead, think of your family’s outfits as a collection of tones that work together. Choose a general color palette (warm neutrals, soft blues, earthy greens) and mix textures and subtle variations within those tones.
If someone is wearing a patterned piece (which can add beautiful visual interest), let that be the jumping-off point and build everyone else’s outfits around it using solids that pick up the colors in the pattern. This keeps things cohesive without feeling busy or forced.
Keep It Simple and Timeless
- Skip Logos and Brand Names. Large graphics and text distract from your faces and the story we’re telling.
- Avoid Loud Patterns. Small, subtle patterns can work if only one person is wearing them, but large prints or multiple competing patterns can quickly become overwhelming.
- Choose Flattering Fits. Wear clothes that move well and make you feel comfortable. Flowy dresses, linen shirts, and well-fitted pants photograph beautifully.
- Mind the Footwear. Especially for men—please leave the “dad sneakers” and polo shirts at home. Opt for simple leather boots, clean neutral sneakers, or barefoot if the setting allows.
- And yes, take the ballcap off—let’s see those faces!
Layers and Texture Are Your Friends
Adding layers like cardigans, vests, or a scarf can give your photos depth and variety, especially if the weather is cool. Different textures—think knits, linen, denim, lace—add subtle richness to your images.
Final Tips for an Elevated Look
- Prioritize Comfort: You should be able to move, walk, and interact naturally.
- Consider Your Home: If you plan to print these photos, choose colors that will complement your home’s style and color palette.
- Ask for Help: I provide a styling guide with every session, and I’m always happy to review outfit options to help you pull everything together.
Remember, the best photos happen when you feel like yourself, when you’re dressed in pieces that feel good and fit well. You’re investing in memories—let’s make sure they feel as beautiful and effortless as the moment deserves.
