What to Wear for Your Studio Family Photos

A Backdrop + Outfit Guide to Help You Look & Feel Your Best

Welcome! I’m so excited to photograph your family in the studio. I know that planning outfits can feel like a lot—but don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. ✨

This guide is designed to help you coordinate your wardrobe based on the backdrop color you choose (Mocha, White, Light Gray, or Dark Gray) and the overall feel you want for your session—elegant or casual.

Whether you're dreaming of timeless, dressed-up portraits or something relaxed and natural, here’s everything you need to know to plan your perfect look!

Mocha Backdrop

Warm | Cozy | Earthy

Mocha is a beautiful, neutral brown backdrop that adds warmth and depth to your portraits. It's perfect for fall-inspired tones or anyone who loves that earthy, organic feel.

Elegant Look:

Cream, beige, camel
Dusty rose, rust, olive green
Flowy dresses, tailored outfits, knits or linen textures

Casual Look:

Denim, light browns, soft oranges
White tees, cardigans, overalls for little ones
Neutral shoes or barefoot for a relaxed feel

This backdrop is ideal for families who love soft, golden tones and a cozy vibe.

White Backdrop

Bright | Airy | Timeless

White creates a clean, fresh feel that works beautifully with both casual and refined looks.

Elegant Look:

All white or soft tones like ivory, champagne, and pale pink
Silks, structured pieces, soft pastels
Minimal accessories for a refined, timeless feel

Casual Look:

Jeans + white tops, soft greens, light blue
Simple sneakers or barefoot
Light layers like denim jackets or soft knits

White is great for a minimalist, modern aesthetic or a bright family photo wall.

Light Gray Backdrop

Soft | Balanced | Modern

Light gray is super versatile—it blends seamlessly with almost any color palette and feels clean, calm, and polished.

Elegant Look:

Navy, steel blue, charcoal, plum, deep green
Classic cuts, layered neutrals, soft textures
Great for more styled family looks

Casual Look:

Denim, white, dusty blues, light gray
Knits, soft layers, casual dresses or button-downs
Add a subtle pop of color like mustard or muted red

If you're not sure what you want yet, light gray is a beautiful middle ground!

Dark Gray Backdrop

Bold | Moody | Refined

This deep, dramatic backdrop adds contrast and elegance. Perfect for families wanting a modern, editorial vibe—or cozy winter portraits.

Elegant Look:

Black, emerald green, navy, burgundy, or deep jewel tones
Velvet, satin, wool textures
Polished shoes, gold or silver jewelry

Casual Look:

Charcoal, black denim, muted red or olive
Long sleeves, soft knits, layered pieces
Great for stylish fall/winter outfits

Dark gray gives your session that “wow” factor without overpowering your family.

My Top Styling tips

Coordinate, don’t match – Choose 2–3 main colors and mix tones and textures for a natural, cohesive look

Avoid logos & characters – These can distract from your faces and date your photos

Dress comfortably – Make sure kids (and adults!) feel good in what they’re wearing—itchy tags or stiff clothes can ruin the vibe

Plan shoes too – Avoid sneakers at all cost. Go for neutral flats, boots, dress shoes, or even barefoot (especially for kids or indoor setups)

Try on everything together – Lay out all outfits ahead of time and snap a quick photo to make sure the whole group looks good together

For moms: Choose outfits that stay in place—no sliding sleeves, gaping buttons, or fabrics that ride up. You’ll likely be carrying or adjusting your little one, and sometimes we only have a second to get the shot. You want to be free to move and not worry about your top shifting at the wrong moment!

Need help? I’m just a text away!

I’m always happy to look over outfit options or help you choose based on your selected backdrop. Just send me a quick photo of what you’re thinking—this is one of my favorite parts of the planning process!

Can’t wait to see what you come up with. Your photos are going to be beautiful!

xo,

Carolina