What to wear for your storytelling session
One of the biggest questions families ask me before their session is: “What should we wear?” And I get it. Choosing outfits for the whole family can feel overwhelming. But here’s the good news: it doesn’t have to be stressful. With a little guidance, your clothing can beautifully complement your photos and timelessly tell your story.
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Start with Mom
I always recommend beginning with Mom’s outfit. When Mom feels beautiful and comfortable, everything else falls into place. My client closet is filled with motherhood gowns that flatter every body — from XS to XL, maternity and non-maternity. They’re soft, flowing, and perfectly suited to the earthy, storytelling tones of my work.
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Build Around Neutrals and Textures
Once Mom’s outfit is chosen, we build around it. I recommend muted, neutral tones — earthy greens, soft creams, warm browns, dusty blues. Instead of focusing on matching perfectly, think about creating a cohesive palette.
Textures matter too. Linen, cotton, knits, and corduroy photograph beautifully because they add depth without distraction. I usually recommend avoiding polyester and chiffon — they can look shiny or out of place in storytelling images.
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For the Kids
Children’s outfits are most magical when they let kids move freely and still look timeless. My closet includes pieces for both boys and girls that pair seamlessly with my editing palette. Think overalls, soft dresses, cozy knits, and simple silhouettes that let their personalities shine through.
And remember, kids don’t need to be stiff or “perfect” for the photos. Their joy, their curiosity, and their play are what make the images unforgettable. Clothing just sets the stage.
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Keep It Simple for Dad
Dads are often the easiest to style. Neutral pants or jeans, paired with a textured shirt or henley, work perfectly. Think soft tones that coordinate with the family, without pulling focus. Layers (like a casual jacket or knit sweater) can add warmth and variety.
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Final Tips:
- Barefoot or simple neutral shoes always photograph better than bright sneakers.
- Layers photograph beautifully and give kids something to play with.
- Keep patterns subtle — think gentle stripes or small florals, not loud prints.
The goal isn’t “fancy” — it’s timeless, cohesive, and comfortable.
What works ( visuals)
What you wear sets the tone, but the real magic comes from the way you love on your family during the session. When you’re comfortable, confident, and free to connect, your photos will feel like home.
So take a breath, know I’m here to guide you every step of the way, and remember: you don’t have to do this alone. I’ve curated a closet and a process designed to make you feel beautiful and at ease. All that’s left is to show up and let me capture your story.
How to Dress Your Family
I. Do
- choose well-fitting clothing and something that you feel confident in
- start with the pickiest person’s clothing first, then build everyone else’s outfits off of that.
- coordinate, don’t match
- change up textures and prints
- always add in lots of neutral colors
II. Avoid
- thin, close together stripes (it has an odd effect in photographs)
- small plaid or buffalo prints (also looks weird in photos), especially in very contrasting colors
- large logos, cartoon characters, or words on your clothing (unless you’re very intentional, like you’re going for a ’70s vibe and want a vintage graphic tee)
- too many dark colors, as it makes photos look dull (especially black, avoid black unless it’s pants)
- neon colors make color casts onto skin and it’s not pretty
Borrowing from my Client Closet
I have a client closet full of beautiful dresses, rompers, etc for clients to borrow during their session. Please check it out and let me know if you need additional sizing info or if you want to set up a time to try something on.
Quick note on hair. Keep it loose and flowy, rather than tight and slicked back. I’d rather your child showed up in 2 day old braids than tight french braids. Messy hair is more inspiring and fun to photograph than perfect hair! If it looks good in wavy curls, then do it because that’s going to photograph the best and if it’s windy, it will look amazing! But if anyone has thin hair (especially little girls), you will want to style it so it’s out of their face. Especially for locations that can be windy, it will be in their face the entire time if you don’t pull it back somehow. Here’s a Pinterest board for little girls. For boys, just do what they normally do!
III. Styling hair
III. Don’t forget to coordinate shoes!
This is usually the thing most people forget about, and it really makes a difference. Know what always looks amazing? Brown shoes. Stay away from athletic shoes and shoes with neon colors, even on the soles. Wear shoes that go with the style you are wearing. Unless your session is in your home or on the beach, and in that case, ditch the shoes! Also make sure that socks are chosen intentionally, especially for kids. Pants will ride up and show socks so be sure they coordinate with your outfits.
