When you’re planning family photos, one of the first questions that pops up is: “What should we wear?” As a Vermont family photographer, I hear this from almost every mom—and I get it. You want your family to look cohesive, comfortable, and true to who you are. The good news? Picking the perfect outfits doesn’t have to be stressful. With a little direction and a simple plan, choosing what to wear can actually be fun.

Here’s my go-to guide to help moms choose outfits that photograph beautifully in Vermont’s landscapes and feel natural for your family.

1. Start With Your Outfit First

The best starting point is you, mama.
Choose something you genuinely feel good in—something that fits well, moves comfortably, and makes you feel confident. Once your outfit is set, it’s much easier to build a color palette around it.

Photographer Tip: Soft, earthy, or neutral tones photograph especially well in Vermont’s fields, forests, and mountains.

2. Pick a Coordinated Color Palette (Not Matching Outfits)

Forget the days of everyone wearing the exact same color. For modern, timeless photos, aim for coordinated colors instead.

Palette ideas perfect for Vermont:

• Earthy neutrals: cream, tan, sage, soft brown
• Muted cool tones: slate blue, dusty lavender, soft gray
• Warm fall tones: rust, mustard, olive, deep plum

These palettes blend effortlessly with Vermont’s seasonal scenery and avoid clashing with nature’s colors.

Avoid: neon shades, bright red, busy patterns, or anything with bold logos.

3. Add Layers + Textures for Visual Interest

Layers create beautiful depth in photos and help your images feel cozy and natural—especially for fall and early winter sessions.

Try including:

• Cardigans
• Linen or gauze tops
• Knits
• Light jackets
• Flowy dresses
• Subtle textures like waffle knit or ribbed fabric

Textures photograph beautifully without overwhelming the eye.

4. Choose Comfort—Especially for the Kids

Kids photograph best when they’re comfortable and can move freely. Think soft, flexible fabrics and outfits that don’t require constant adjusting.

Great options for little ones:

• Stretchy leggings
• Soft sweaters
• One-piece rompers for babies
• Avoid scratchy collars, stiff denim, or anything they “hate wearing”

A happy child always looks better in photos than a perfectly pressed outfit.

5. Use Patterns Sparingly

Patterns are welcome—they just need to be subtle.

YES: tiny florals, small checks, soft plaids
NO: large prints, wild patterns, loud logos

A good rule of thumb: one patterned piece per family, surrounded by coordinating solids.

6. Dress for the Setting + Season

Vermont’s landscape is lush, dramatic, and seasonal. Let your location guide your outfit choices.

Inspiration by season:

• Fall: warm neutrals, deep tones, cozy layers
• Summer: airy textures, light neutrals, soft pastels
• Winter: jewel tones, knits, layered neutrals
• Spring: florals, denim, creamy tones, muted greens

If you’re not sure what works, I’m always happy to help you match the palette to your session location.

7. Keep Accessories Simple

Accessories should enhance your look, not distract from it.

Great choices include:

• Minimal jewelry
• Simple hair accessories
• Soft scarves or hats for colder seasons
• Neutral shoes or cute barefoot toddlers in grassy fields

Skip anything that feels bulky or flashy.

8. Choose What Feels Like You

The most important rule is simple: wear something that feels like your family. If you’re not usually a dress person, skip it. If your kids love denim, embrace it. Authenticity always photographs better than trends.

As your Vermont family photographer, my goal is to help your session feel effortless, comfortable, and joyful—and your outfits play a big part in setting that tone.

Final Thoughts

Choosing what to wear for family photos doesn’t have to be stressful. When you start with your outfit, pick a coordinated color palette, mix in texture, and prioritize comfort, your images will feel timeless and beautifully connected. And remember—I’m here to help! Feel free to send me your outfit ideas anytime for quick feedback before your Vermont family photo session.