How to Create Timeless, Classic Family Photos

Ensure your family photos are both polished and effortless with these two simple steps:

Step 1: Coordinate Colors

Choose 2-3 neutral tones (one must be cream or white) for all outfits and accessories. These neutral colors should be consistent throughout your family’s look, including belts, shoes, and other accessories. The following shades work perfectly:

• Whites/creams
• Blush
• Light/medium grays
• Light browns/tans/khakis
• Very light blues

Layering is key to adding depth. For example, a fluffy cream vest for girls works beautifully with a dress and leggings, suspenders are adorable on toddlers, and a light sports jacket looks great on dad. For a minimalist vibe, you can even limit yourself to just two colors.

Step 2: Add Texture

Texture is a great way to add dimension and interest to your photos. Try to incorporate texture into at least one outfit. Women and girls can add texture with materials like lace (white or cream lace looks stunning!), chunky knits, crochet, tulle, or faux fur vests. This helps the photos feel rich and multi-dimensional.

Additional Tips for Picture-Perfect Family Photos

• Stick to Solids: Try to keep the outfits solid, with only one person wearing a subtle pattern (like stripes or checks). Avoid busy patterns or large logos, as they can distract from the overall look and make the photo feel cluttered.

• Dress in Layers: Layering adds visual interest and gives the photo more depth. Don't shy away from adding cardigans, jackets, or vests.

• Wrinkle-Free is Essential: Make sure all clothes are ironed or dry-cleaned before the shoot. Wrinkles, especially on crisp shirts, can be distracting and make the photo look less polished.

• Men’s Attire: Men should avoid T-shirts and instead opt for collared shirts (button-downs or Polos). These create a more structured and put-together look. Shirts should be tucked in or worn casually, but never wrinkled or ill-fitting.

• Avoid Matching Too Much: Avoid everyone wearing the same exact outfit. If one person is wearing khakis, someone else should wear a different shade or style. This creates a more varied, visually interesting photo.

• Be Mindful of Jeans: No more than two people in the family should wear jeans. If you do choose jeans, opt for darker shades to keep the look more refined. Avoid light or overly distressed denim.

• Avoid Bright Reds and Oranges: These colors can reflect onto your skin and create unflattering tones in photos. It’s best to skip bright reds, oranges, or similarly intense hues to keep the focus on the people, not the clothes.

• Socks Matter: Men, avoid white socks, as they can show up in photos. Choose dress socks or something stylish that complements the rest of the outfit.

• When in Doubt, Keep It Neutral: If you're unsure what colors to go with, stick to shades of blue (light or dark), tans, khakis, and cream/white. These tones are foolproof and always look stunning, especially indoors.