Family Outfit & Styling Guide
Thoughtfully styled. Effortlessly connected.
I'm truly honored you've chosen me to capture your family's story. My goal is to make this experience feel easy, joyful, and meaningful — from the first conversation to the finished artwork in your space.
One of the most common questions families ask is "What should we wear?" The answer is simpler than you might think.
Your connection, love, and energy are what truly matter. Clothing simply supports the story — it should frame your family beautifully, not distract from who you are together.
This guide is here to help you feel confident, prepared, and inspired, so styling becomes one less thing to worry about.
General Guidelines for What to Wear
- Aim for coordinated, not matching outfits — think "belonging together" rather than identical looks
- Choose pieces that reflect your family's personality — relaxed, classic, playful, or refined
- Stick to a cohesive color palette (2–3 main tones works beautifully)
- Avoid loud logos, heavy graphics, neon colors, or very busy patterns
- Try everything on in advance — comfort is especially important for children
- Bring outfits on hangers, steamed or ironed, for a polished look
- Shoes matter — they will be visible in many portraits. Clean shoes or barefoot (when appropriate) photograph beautifully
You're welcome to bring up to 2–3 outfit options per person. We'll finalize what works best together once you arrive.
Accessories & Meaningful Details
Accessories should enhance your portraits — not steal the focus.
- Delicate jewelry, watches, soft layers (cardigans, shawls) photograph beautifully
- For children: neutral hair bows, simple headbands, or soft textures work best
- Avoid oversized statement pieces unless they are part of your family's signature style
Children's comfort matters
You're welcome to bring a favorite toy, blanket, or comfort item — especially if it's meaningful
or visually beautiful. Sometimes these details become the most cherished parts of a portrait.
Need Help Deciding?
You don't have to figure this out alone.
- Feel free to text photos of outfit options — laid out together works best
- If you've created a Pinterest board or moodboard, I'd love to see it
- I'm happy to help refine colors, textures, and combinations so everything feels intentional and cohesive
Styling Directions We Love
Light Background: Soft, Airy & Natural
Perfect for relaxed, modern family portraits with a timeless feel.
Works beautifully with:
- All white or soft ivory — especially stunning for black & white portraits
- Denim paired with light neutrals (cream, beige, blush, soft gray, pale blue)
- Coordinated tones — choose 2–3 complementary colors and stay within that palette
This look feels fresh, effortless, and natural — ideal for everyday family storytelling.
Dark Background: Classic, Elegant & Bold
Ideal for more dramatic, formal, or heirloom-style portraits.
Styling suggestions:
- Tailored suits, structured outfits, or classic separates
- Elegant dresses or gowns
- Rich, deep tones (navy, burgundy, emerald, charcoal)
- Luxurious textures (satin, velvet, lace, fine knits)
This direction creates striking portraits that feel timeless and worthy of wall display.
Want Something Unique?
If your family has a creative idea or meaningful story you'd like to express, let's talk.
We're happy to style a portion of your session around:
- A vintage or heirloom piece
- Cultural or traditional attire
- A playful or story-driven concept
- Something handmade or deeply personal
Your portraits should feel like you — not a template.
If Your Session Is Outdoors or at the Beach
Fabric & Color Choices
- Flowy fabrics like linen, cotton, and soft layers photograph beautifully in natural light
- Beach settings: creams, whites, dusty rose, sage, soft blues
- Natural environments: rust, sand, mustard, olive, denim, warm neutrals
Footwear & Comfort
- Barefoot works perfectly for the beach — just ensure clean, groomed feet
- For grass or uneven ground, choose neutral flats, boots, or sandals
- Avoid heels unless we'll be on a paved surface
Wind-Friendly Tips
- Light wind can add beautiful movement to hair and clothing
- Bring a brush, clips, or light styling product just in case
Bonus: Neutral blankets, picnic-style props, or simple accessories are welcome — just keep tones soft so they don't overpower your outfits.
Don't forget sunscreen and water, especially for little ones.
Final Thought
When in doubt, choose comfort, simplicity, and pieces that feel like you. If something feels stiff, itchy, or forced — skip it.
I'll guide you through every step during the session. Your only job is to show up, be present, and enjoy time together.
If you have questions while preparing, I'm always here.
Warmly,
Olga
Noran Shine Studio