What to Wear for Family Photos
What to Wear for Family Photos
(Without Overthinking It)
Family Photographer in Vancouver & the Lower Mainland
One of the first questions families ask when they book a session is what to wear. And it makes sense—it feels like a lot of pressure to get it right.
But here’s the truth. What you wear matters less than how you feel in it.
As a family photographer in Vancouver and the Lower Mainland, I’ve seen that the most meaningful portraits don’t come from perfectly styled outfits. They come from families who feel comfortable, connected, and like themselves.
Start with How You Want It to Feel
Before choosing outfits, think about the feeling you want when you look back at your portraits.
Do you want them to feel soft and timeless?
Calm and connected?
A little elevated, but still natural?
That feeling should guide everything else.
Neutral tones, soft textures, and simple pieces tend to photograph beautifully because they don’t distract from what matters most—your connection.
You Don’t Need to Match
One of the biggest misconceptions about family photography is that everyone needs to match perfectly.
Instead of matching, think about coordinating.
Choose a simple colour palette—creams, soft greys, warm earth tones—and build from there. When outfits complement each other without being identical, your images feel more natural and more refined.
Keep It Comfortable
If something feels stiff, tight, or unfamiliar, it will show.
Kids especially need to feel like they can move, sit, and lean into you without being adjusted every few seconds. When everyone is comfortable, the session feels easier—and the images reflect that.
Simple Always Wins
Logos, bold patterns, and overly trendy pieces can pull attention away from your faces and your connection.
Simple, timeless choices will always age better and keep the focus where it belongs—on your family.
Still Not Sure?
If you’re unsure what to wear for your family portrait session in Vancouver or Surrey, you’re not alone. Most families feel that way.
I’ve put together a simple guide to help you prepare, including what to wear, how to approach your session, and what the experience actually feels like.
👉 Download The Family You'll Want to Remember: A Fine Art Guide to Meaningful Family Portraits
A Thought to Hold Onto
Your outfits don’t need to be perfect.
What matters is that when you look back at these portraits, you recognize yourselves—not just how you looked, but how it felt to be together.
If you’re planning a family photography session in Vancouver or the Lower Mainland, I’d love to help you create something meaningful.
Janice Smith Photography is a Vancouver-based family photographer specializing in fine art family portraits for clients in Surrey, Langley, Burnaby, Coquitlam, and across the Lower Mainland. Each session is designed to create timeless, meaningful artwork that reflects your family as you are—right now.
