What to Wear for Your In-Home Family Photography Session

A GUIDE TO LOOKING (AND FEELING) LIKE YOU.

Hooray, you’ve booked your in-home family photography session! Now you might be wondering: what on earth do we wear? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. This is one of the most common questions I get from families before a photoshoot.

The good news? There’s no need to overthink it. My sessions are relaxed, natural, and all about capturing you just as you are. So let’s keep your outfits simple, comfortable, and true to you.

Here’s my guide to help you feel confident (and comfy) on the day.

Comfort COMES First, Always

The most important thing is that you feel comfortable in what you’re wearing. If you’re constantly tugging at a top or adjusting something that doesn’t quite feel right, it’ll be harder to relax. My goal for natural in-home family photography is for you to feel at ease so we can capture those genuine, connected moments.

There’s no need for fancy outfits or dressing up unless that’s what makes you feel good. If jeans and a soft tee are your happy place, go for it. The best family photos happen when you feel like yourself.

Best Colours for Family Photos at Home

When it comes to colours, warm earthy tones work beautifully in natural family photography. Think burnt orange, mustard, browns, earthy greens, terracotta, creams and off-whites. Colours that bring warmth and softness to your photos.

It’s best to avoid colours that can feel a bit stark indoors, like black or navy blue, or even bright white. These can sometimes feel a bit too heavy for in-home family photography and don’t always play nicely with indoor light. I’d also recommend steering clear of fluorescents and overly saturated colours, these can cast colours onto your skin and look unnatural.

Patterns, Textures and Layers

If you want to include a pattern (express yourself!), I’d suggest keeping it to just one patterned item so it doesn’t get too busy. A beautiful floral, stripe, or check can add a lovely touch without stealing the show. Heavier block patterns work better than fine, intricate patterns.

Texture is a magic ingredient for natural family photos. Ribbed cotton, linen, corduroy, knitwear all bring something unique. These give depth and interest, especially when we’re working with natural light. And if you’re wearing white, choosing a textured fabric helps soften it in the images.

Layers are also a great way to add variety. A cardigan, an open shirt, or a chunky scarf can give you a few different looks without the need for a full outfit change.

Skin to Skin: Adding Intimacy to Your Images

If you feel comfortable, showing a little bare skin during your photography session can add a beautiful layer of intimacy to your natural family photos. Skin-to-skin can mean different things for different people; maybe it’s an open shirt over jeans, a tank top with bare arms, nothing but undies, or cuddling your little one in their nappy.

It’s always your choice. I want you to feel safe, seen, and celebrated however you want to express yourself. Some of my favourite images have been of parents and kids in simple, skin-to-skin moments that show the closeness of their bond.

Can I Change Outfits?

Absolutely! If you’d like to change tops, add a layer, or swap outfits partway through your family photography session, go for it. A quick change can give you a bit of variety in your gallery.

That said, don’t stress about it. Sometimes sticking to one comfy, well-chosen outfit is all you need. If you’ve got little ones, I know it can feel like a mission to change outfits mid-session, so do whatever feels easiest.

Dressing kids and partners

The same rules apply for the rest of the family: comfort is key. Bare feet, soft fabrics, and outfits they can happily play and snuggle in work best.

When it comes to coordinating as a family, think about harmony rather than matching. You don’t all need to wear the same colour or style. In fact, it’s often nicer when everyone’s look complements rather than copies each other.

Your Home is Part of the Story

No, you don’t have to dress your home in its Sunday best. One of the beautiful things about in-home family photography is that your space becomes part of the story. There’s no need to tidy up every corner or make things “picture perfect.” Real life is what I’m here for—toys on the floor, books stacked on the coffee table, the chaos or the calm.

Your home is where your memories live, and it’s the perfect backdrop for photos that feel real and meaningful.

Don’t Overthink It

At the end of the day, the best thing you can wear is whatever helps you feel relaxed and yourself. I’ll take care of the rest; finding the dreamy light, capturing your connections, and making sure you feel at ease.

If you’re unsure or want to run outfit ideas past me, I’m always happy to help.

If you’d like more inspiration, have a browse through my gallery of in-home family sessions. And if you’re keen to book your session or chat about what to wear, get in touch, I’d love to hear from you!

Interested in booking an in-home session?

I’d love to hear about your family and help you tell your story. No stress, no pressure. Just honest, heartfelt photos of the people you love most.