What to wear for beautiful, natural photos at home

One of the most common questions I get before a session is: “What should we wear?” And I totally get it. You want your family to look beautiful, cohesive and relaxed, not overly styled or stiff.

The good news? When it comes to in-home photography, comfort is key. Your photos will feel most “you” when everyone is wearing something they feel good in.

Here are a few simple tips to help you plan:

1. Choose comfort over “perfect”

Skip anything tight, scratchy or restrictive. Think soft knits, flowing dresses, linen shirts, and absolutley bare feet. The more comfortable you feel, the more relaxed and connected you’ll look.

2. Keep the colours soft and natural

Neutrals, earth tones, soft pastels and muted colours all photograph beautifully in a home setting. They keep the focus on the connection between you, not the clothes.

Avoid bold logos, harsh neons or busy patterns. They can distract from the emotion of the image.

If you love a pop of colour, I know it can work really well in photos and feel more like you because it’s a colour you love and always wear.

This pop of red on mama works so well

3. Coordinate, don’t match

Choose a colour palette with 2–3 tones that work well together (an example is cream, dusty rose and sage green) and dress each family member in a variation of those. No need for everyone to wear the exact same shade, diversity in texture and tone brings warmth to your gallery.

Notice how these colours compliment eachother?

4. Consider your space

Take a quick look around the room you imagine most of the session happening in. What colours are in the walls, furniture, blankets or artwork? Choosing tones that sit comfortably with your space helps the photos feel beautifully cohesive.

5. Add movement and texture

Layered fabrics like knits, linen, or cotton add gorgeous texture in photos. Flowing dresses or oversized jumpers create movement, especially when cuddling on the couch or playing with little ones.

The flowing dress of mama add an extra special element.

Still not sure?

When you book your family photo session with me, I send through a wardrobe guide and personalised support if you’d like help picking outfits. I’m always happy to chat through options and even look at photos of what you’re considering. Or better yet, be in your dressing gown when I turn up and we can figure out your clothes together.

Ultimately, what matters most isn’t what you’re wearing, it’s how you feel together. The outfits are just there to support that.

If you’re based in Melbourne and looking for meaningful, relaxed photography that captures the heart of your home and family - I would absolutely love to work with you.

Click here to book your session, or reach out if you have questions.