How to style your extended family for a photo session
Planning an extended family photo session is a wonderful opportunity to capture the unique bonds and cherished moments among your loved ones. To learn all the information about how does an extended family session work, read this detailed guide about photo shoots for large families. One of the key elements to achieve stunning photographs is selecting a cohesive color palette that complements the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest and reflects your family's personality. In this article, we'll explore practical tips and creative ideas to help you style your family, ensuring everyone looks and feels their best during the session.
What color palette works best for an extended family photos
There isn’t a single "perfect" color palette for family photos—it’s all about choosing the one that fits your location and feels authentic to your family. The key is to select a cohesive color scheme and get everyone on board with styling. As your photographer, I’ll guide you every step of the way to make sure your family looks beautifully coordinated and comfortable.
To start, we’ll determine one color palette (3-4 colors) that complements our stunning Pacific Northwest scenery. Once you’ve chosen a palette you love, share it with everyone involved in the session to keep the look consistent.
TIPS on choosing the right color palette
Choose One Base Palette: warm earth rich bold tones (as examples above) are one direction you can go. Or you might prefer soft pastels, neutral trendy beige or light and airy tones (as examples below). Either way, you can add one playful accent color.
Add Light Neutrals: Break up the palette with lots of white, cream, or light beige to keep the overall look airy and balanced.
Incorporate Patterns and Layers: Each family unit (like mom, dad, and kids) can add one subtle pattern, such as florals, along with a mix of textures like knits, denim, or linen. This adds depth and interest without overwhelming the photos.
Avoid Blending into the Background: avoid overly matching the evergreen hues of the PNW backdrop. Instead, aim for tones that stand out while complementing the scenery.
Bonus Tip: Plan for Wall Art
It’s usually the grandparents, who print a large photo of the whole group, consider how the color scheme will look on their walls. Choose tones that will enhance their home’s decor and make the image truly timeless.
What colors you should avoid wearing at your family photo shoot
Black and navy blue - While these dark tones may be staples in your wardrobe, they don’t always photograph well. They can feel heavy in images and often lack the softness needed to complement family photos. It’s not that black is never an option, but for family photos, lighter, warmer tones work best.
Neon and super bright colors - These can be distracting and often clash with natural backgrounds or other outfit choices. Neons also tend to draw attention away from faces, which are the heart of your family photo.
Pure white - While classic, pure white can sometimes appear stark and cold/blue in photos. Instead, I recommend softer neutrals like off-white, cream, or beige. These tones bring warmth and blend beautifully with both natural and indoor settings.
How to achieve a cohesive look for a large family photo session
Now that you got the colors down and shared everyone with the group. Here are the next important next steps to take when styling your family for a session.
Reflect the season. Choose outfits that fit the season and ensure everyone is dressed appropriately for the weather. Avoid mismatches like one person in a breezy summer dress while others are bundled up in sweaters or blazers. Strive for balance by coordinating styles and making sure everyone feels comfortable. Open communication with the group is key!
Decide on formality. Think about the overall vibe you want your photos to have. Will the group go for a formal look with button-ups and dress shoes, or something more relaxed with collared shirts. Agreeing on the level of formality ensures everyone looks cohesive and avoids clashing styles.
3 things to avoid when styling your family for a session
Wrong shoes. Skip the sport shoes, sneakers or worn-out hiking shoes, and leave the high heels at home (especially for PNW sessions that often involve walking on pebbly beaches, some rocks, or soft dirt trails). Instead, go for neutral-tone leather shoes or loafers. White/beige sandals for kids in summer or spring (even fall when paired with cute stockings) look awesome. Your shoes should blend seamlessly into your outfit and not draw attention. You can head over to Everlane to get inspired or shop for a chic pair of shoes for a photo shoot.
Loud patterns. Avoid narrow, thin stripes—they can create a strange visual effect on camera that might make you feel dizzy! Large, bold patterns can also dominate the image, drawing attention away from the most important part of the session: you and your family. Instead, pick solid colors with a sophisticated pattern for just one person in your family unit. Patterns like florals, wide stripes, or some other designs work well, as long as they complement rather than distract. Below, you’ll find some great examples of patterns that photograph beautifully for family sessions.
Not flattering extras. Certain items don’t photograph well and can be distracting. Puffy jackets, oversize coats, baseball hats, bulky watches are best left in the car. Don’t forget to empty your pockets! Yes, even back pockets! (you will probably hear me remind you of this a few time:). Instead pick warm layers that photograph well. Wool undershirts, stylish vests, cozy scarves, or warm stockings are great alternatives that add texture and personality to your photos. Grandmother might love a beautiful scarf, while trendy fleece jackets or vests work well for men. Stores like Old Navy have fantastic options for men’s outerwear that look polished and photo-ready. Check out these trendy jackets for women’s that would work well for your session!
TIPS on accessories for a family session
Stylish hats and headbands. A stylish wide-brim hat can look effortlessly chic—especially for moms—when taking individual or small group photos. However, it can stand out too much in full group shots if no one else is wearing a headpiece. Baseball hats? Leave those at home! In general, hats can cast unwanted shadows on your face, so choose wisely. Headbands and large bows, on the other hand, are absolutely adorable for little girls and can beautifully complement their outfits.
Jewelry and watches. Simple, elegant accessories can elevate your look. Accent earrings or a necklace add a lovely touch, and don’t forget to wear your engagement and wedding rings! However, bulky or digital watches don’t photograph well—unless there’s a serious tan line, it’s best to take them off for the session.
Glasses. Sunglasses are a definite no-go for family photos, and while regular glasses might be a must for some, keep in mind they can create glare in photos. I don’t retouch glare in individual shots, so it’s something to consider before your session.
Wedges. Want a little extra height or a slimming effect? Wedges or platform shoes are a fantastic alternative to thin heels, adding both elegance and comfort to your outfit. But only wear them if you feel comfortable moving and keeping up with your kids. Don’t forget to check with your photographer about much walking you will do at the location.
Belts. A stylish belt can take your outfit to the next level! Some dresses are made to be paired with a trendy belt, and for men, a classic leather belt always looks sharp in photos.
Don’t forget:
Coordinate accessories with the entire group. Too many different styles can be distracting.
Less is more. One or two well-chosen accessories is all you need to complete your look.
Consider the location. Outdoor sessions work best with more relaxed, casual accessories that fit the setting and it might be different for a studio or in-home session.
Tips on how to get everyone participate in styling for a large family photo shoot
Communication is the key. Keeping everyone in the loop is essential! Share the plan early and explain why coordinated outfits make such a big difference. Thoughtfully styled clothing helps create a cohesive and polished look, enhancing the overall quality of your photo gallery. After all, everyone wants their professional photos to look their absolute best!
Share this blog post. Make it easier for your family by sharing this blog post! The more they know about styling tips and tricks, the smoother the process will be.
Offer support. If you're the one organizing the session, take the lead in guiding your family. Check in with each family unit at least 2-3 weeks before the session to ensure they’ve thought through their outfits. A friendly reminder can make all the difference in avoiding last-minute stress!
Choose the right photographer. Working with a photographer who supports you from start to finish can make the experience stress-free and enjoyable. When you book with me, I’m here to help from the moment you secure your session. We’ll start planning styling well in advance, and if you'd like, you can even text me photos of your outfit choices for feedback.
Bonus Perk! When you book a session with me, you’ll get exclusive access to the Style & Select App, which helps style up to 14 people from head to toe—completely free for you! It’s an easy and fun way to ensure everyone looks and feels their best.
Where to shop beautiful outfits for a large family photo shoot
When you book a session with me, you’ll get exclusive access to the Style & Select app, an incredible tool that makes styling your family effortless. This app not only helps you put together outfits that complement each other beautifully, but it also allows you to shop directly—just click and purchase! The best part? Every item you see is available online in real time, making the process super convenient.
If you’re not looking to do a full wardrobe overhaul and just need a few pieces to complete your look, I’ve got you covered! Here are some of my go-to favorites:
Baby and little kids: Carter’s, Target, Old Navy, Boden, Mila and Rose
Women: Altar’d State, Baltic Born, The Kind Red Soul (for rentals), Free People, Petal and pup, Marine Layer
Men: Eddie Bauer, Banana Republic, Kuhl , Tommy Bahama (last two for pants that are not jeans)
Don’t forget to check out local thrift stores, your best friend’s closet or items deep down in your wardrobe that you have forgotten about!
How to book the right photographer for your extended family session
Choosing the right photographer for your extended family session is so important! Capturing a group of 10+ people—often with little ones, grandparents, and even furry babies—requires a special set of skills and experience. You’ll want someone who can handle it all with ease and care.
An experienced photographer knows how to engage with everyone, manage different personalities, and capture all the must-have shots effortlessly. They can also help you choose outfits that complement the whole group and select a location that fits your family's dynamic. Beyond technical skills, it's important to work with someone who brings patience, energy, and the ability to keep things running smoothly while making sure everyone feels seen and valued.
If you're curious about how my extended family session flows, check out my blog post where I walk you through the entire process and what you can expect.
Multi-generation photographs are some of the most meaningful, and I absolutely love creating them. My very first paid shoot was with a large family, and since then, I’ve had years of experience capturing these priceless moments! To secure your session date, fill out my inquiry form and let me know who will be joining you so I can send a personalized quote. Be sure to share why this session is special to you—I love hearing your story!
I can’t wait to connect and start planning your session.
Get to know your photographer!
It’s important to get along with your photographer! I’m a super laid-back, calm and patient person when it comes to the photo shoots. I have been photographing families for 6 years and it quickly became a passion of mine. If you want to read more about my (not only photography) journey, click the button below.
