What to wear for a family photo session in Olympia WA
What to wear for a family photo session in Olympia WA
Color Coordination Strategies for Family Photos
With a little guidance, picking outfit colors for your family photos can make your images pop while showing off each person’s personality.
Creating a Cohesive Color Palette
When planning your family's outfits for a photo session in Olympia, think about how your colors will work together:
Start with 2-3 neutral colors, plus 1-2 colorful accent colors (neutrals include ivory, cream, oatmeal, beige, light-medium denim, etc)
Consider the season - softer pastels for spring, pops of brighter color in the summer, rich jewel tones for the fall
Look at your home decor - choose colors that will look good on your walls
Olympia's natural backdrops offer beautiful greens year-round, to stand out nicely against our evergreen scenery, avoid wearing greens that will blend right in.
Pro tip: Keep colors consistent by staying in the same color family (pastels with pastels, jewel tones with jewel tones, earthy tones with earthy tones, etc).
Patterns and Textures That Photograph Well
Adding visual interest through patterns and textures can take your family photos from good to great:
Limit patterns to 1-2 family members
Mix in subtle textures like knits, linen, or denim
Keep patterns in the same color family as your solid pieces
Subtle textures add depth without being distracting - think cable knit sweaters, textured dresses, or simple denim that adds dimension without stealing focus from your faces.
Remember, the goal isn't to match exactly but to look like you belong together in the same picture!
Start with Mom’s Outfit
Mom's Outfit Guide
Moms often worry the most about what to wear for family photos. Here's how to look and feel your best:
Comfort comes first - Choose outfits you feel good in so that you look and feel confident in the final photos
Flowy dresses or tops - These create movement in photos and flatter most body types
Simple jewelry - A necklace or earrings can add interest without taking over the photo
Consider your location and activity - A casual sundress might be perfect for the park, while jeans might be better for an adventurous hike down to the water.
Quick Tip: If you're between sizes or unsure about an outfit, bring options! Better to have choices than regret what you wore.
For shoes, consider boots in fall/winter and sandals in warmer months. My sessions are supposed to be all about having fun and connecting with your kids, so leave the high heels at home since we’ll likely be playing in the rocks, sand, water, grass, or trail.
Consider Olympia's Seasonal Weather
Olympia's weather can be tricky when planning family photos. Each season brings its own charm and challenges that affect what you should wear.
In the Spring, you'll face a mix of rain showers and sunny breaks. It’s still a bit cold, which makes it really important to bring layers! A few families will still venture out for a rainy day hike or a visit to the famous cherry blossoms at the end of March, but most of my spring sessions are held at home since it’s easy and comfortable for everyone.
Summer offers the most reliable stretch of dry, warm weather, which is perfect for lighter clothing and outdoor sessions. Fall is also still usually pretty warm and can bring a mix of sun and rain, so layers will be your friend once again!
As for Winter? Let’s stay warm inside with an at-home session and dress for comfort with cozy knit sweaters!
Quick Weather Tips:
Always bring an extra layer! Even in the summer a light jacket can be helpful in the evening.
Pack a clear umbrella for rainy days! If you don’t have one, it’s okay because I do!
Consider waterproof shoes in fall/winter (rain boots are always adorable on little kids anyway!)
Check the forecast the day before your session.
FAQ: Family Photo Session Clothing
I know that planning what to wear for your family photos can be stressful. Here are answers to the most common clothing questions I hear from Olympia families:
How far in advance should we plan our outfits?
I suggest starting to plan your outfits at least 2-3 weeks before your session. This gives you plenty of time to:
See what you already have and shop for any missing pieces
Try everything on to check fit
Make sure all family members are happy with their options
Have a backup plan ready
What colors photograph best in the Pacific Northwest?
Our unique PNW setting works well with:
Soft neutrals such as cream, caramel, tan, and gray
Muted blues that echo our water views
Warm rust and mustard tones (perfect for fall)
Pops of brighter color in the summer
How can we coordinate outfits without looking too "matchy matchy"?
Please, I beg you, do not match your outfits exactly! Try these tips instead:
Pick 2-3 colors and use them in different ways throughout your family's outfits
Let one person wear a subtle pattern that includes your color scheme
Use accessories (scarves, hats, jewelry, shoes) to tie different looks together
Consider texture variations (knits, denim, cotton) in similar color families
What should we avoid wearing for photos?
Skip these common pitfalls:
Large logos or text on clothing
Very tiny patterns that create a visual "buzz" called “moire” on camera
Clothes that restrict movement or make you fidget
New shoes that might cause blisters
Outfits that make anyone feel self-conscious
Anything neon
Plaid on plaid on plaid on plaid (just, please, no plaid!)
Remember: comfort leads to natural smiles. If your little one hates collared shirts, don't force it just for photos! Plus, my style works particular well with more casual outfits.
Book Your Family Photo Session
Ready to capture those special family memories in Olympia? I'm here to help make it happen! As a local photographer who knows Olympia's best spots and changing seasons, I can guide you through the entire process.
My clients love that I don't just show up with a camera - I'm with you from start to finish. This includes:
Pre-session outfit planning - I'll send you a helpful guide with specific suggestions
Location scouting that matches your family's style and needs
Weather backup plans because, well, it's Olympia!
Many families tell me choosing outfits was their biggest stress before our session. That's why I offer quick text consultations to review your clothing choices before the big day.
How to reach me
Weekend sessions book up fast, especially in summer and fall. You can start the booking process by scheduling a quick phone consultation by filling out my Contact form here.
