One of the most common questions I get asked when clients are planning family pictures in East Texas is, “What should we wear for our session?” Your wardrobe choices play a huge role in how your photos look and feel. Outfits can help tell your family’s story, show your personality, and bring everything together in a cohesive way. To help take the stress out of planning, here are my top five tips for choosing what to wear for your upcoming family photo session in East Texas.

1. Start with Mom’s Outfit First

Let’s be honest—moms are often the hardest to shop for. It’s important that you feel comfortable and confident in what you’re wearing, because when you feel good, it shows in your photos. I always recommend starting with mom’s outfit first for your family pictures in East Texas, and then building the rest of the family’s wardrobe around that choice. Think soft neutrals, flowy dresses, or textured fabrics that move beautifully on camera. Once you have mom’s look planned, the rest falls into place much more easily.

2. Wear Clothes You Can Move In

As a lifestyle family photographer in East Texas, I focus on natural, play-based interactions. That means you’ll be running, snuggling, twirling, or tickling your little ones—not just standing perfectly still. Choose clothing that allows you to move freely and comfortably, ideal for those spontaneous family pictures. Flowy skirts, loose tops, and stretchy fabrics are great options that look beautiful while still letting you play and connect with your kids.

3. Coordinate Colors, But Don’t Match

Gone are the days of everyone wearing the exact same outfit (hello, all-white shirts and jeans!). Instead, opt for coordinating colors that complement each other without looking too uniform. Think earth tones, warm neutrals, or soft muted shades that tie the group together naturally. By coordinating colors, your family pictures in East Texas will look cohesive while allowing everyone’s personality to shine.

4. Add Prints for Visual Interest

Solid colors photograph beautifully, but incorporating one or two light, subtle prints can make your family photos pop. Prints such as small florals, stripes, or gingham add depth and texture to your wardrobe without overpowering the overall look. Just keep the patterns minimal and spread them out across the family so they don’t compete with each other. This subtle use of prints will enhance your family pictures in East Texas.

5. Avoid Too Much Black or White

While black and white may seem timeless, they can be harsh and distracting in lifestyle photography. Instead, I suggest choosing softer alternatives like cream, ivory, taupe, or grey. These colors feel warmer and more natural, and they complement the beautiful outdoor backdrops that East Texas is known for—whether it’s a golden field, a forest trail, or a cozy at-home session. This approach can greatly enhance your family pictures.

Need a Little Extra Help Deciding?

Planning outfits for your family photos doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. By starting with mom’s outfit, choosing comfortable clothing, coordinating colors, mixing in a few prints, and steering clear of too much black or white, you’ll create a look that feels effortless and timeless.

And if you still feel stuck, I’ve got you covered! As your East Texas Family Photographer, I provide every client with access to Style & Select, a simple online tool that helps you plan and coordinate your family’s wardrobe. With just a few clicks, you can browse outfit ideas, mix and match pieces, and see how your looks will come together—all before your session day. It’s like having a personal stylist at your fingertips, making the process stress-free and fun.

With the right wardrobe and a little planning, you’ll not only look amazing—you’ll feel amazing too, and that confidence shines through in every image.