Let’s just say it: prepping for family photos is a bit like packing for a family vacation. It’s hard to know what to wear for family portraits. You’re balancing unpredictability (Will it rain? Will my 8-year-old melt down at 6:17 PM?) with wanting everything to go smoothly and look, well… effortless. The good news? When you’re headed into a session with me, especially in and around Geneva, IL, you’re not doing it alone.
One of the most common questions I hear from clients is: “What should we wear?” And right behind it: “What should we bring?” As a family photographer who has worked with hundreds of parents and kids across the Fox Valley, I’ve seen what makes sessions go beautifully and what can easily derail even the best intentions. Spoiler alert: The secret isn’t perfection. It’s comfort, personality, and a little bit of prepping smart.
So let’s walk through exactly what to wear and bring for your family photo session so you can spend less time stressing and more time enjoying the experience.
It’s Not About Matching — It’s About Feeling Like You
I once worked with a family who absolutely nailed it: instead of everyone wearing the same color shirt, they picked a few colors as a family palette and let each person choose from there. What they ended up with wasn’t matchy, but it was so them — a little eclectic, a lot joyful, and visually cohesive in every image. That session turned out to be one of my favorites… not just because the outfits photographed beautifully, but because everyone felt confident and comfortable in what they were wearing.
That’s the theme to keep in mind: let your clothes reflect your actual family dynamic, not a Pinterest-perfect version.
How to Dress for Family Sessions in Geneva (Without Losing Your Mind)
Here are my go-to tips and what I always share with families before we shoot.
1. Embrace Personality, Not Perfection
Your kid’s obsessions (laces, ruffles, sporty t-shirts) aren’t flaws. They’re part of who they are right now. And those little quirks? That’s the stuff you’re going to cherish when you look back on these photos years from now.
- Choose a color palette instead of identical outfits
- Mix textures and layers to add dimension
- Let kids wear pieces that feel like them — sporty, frilly, comfy… it all works when it reflects real personalities
- Say no to loud graphics or distracting logos
2. Don’t Be Afraid to Change on Location
This might surprise people, but one of my favorite tips? Change into your outfits at the location. You’ll avoid the dreaded car-wrinkle (you know the one), and you’ll keep everyone fresher longer.
- Pack your clothes neatly in hangers or a garment bag
- Keep easy shoes on until we’re ready to shoot, especially if we’re walking to a more remote spot
- Bring a comb, wipes, and possibly a lint roller — you’d be amazed at how much a bit of detail-polishing can elevate the final gallery
3. Bring the Important “Just in Case” Stuff
Outdoor sessions require a little more prep, especially around lighting, bugs, and snacks (always snacks).
Here’s what I suggest bringing in your shoot-day tote:
- Water for everyone (yes, even Dad)
- Small, non-messy snacks for kids (think: pretzels over chocolate)
- Hairbrush and hairspray or leave-in conditioner, if it’s breezy
- Bug spray if we’re in grassy or woodsy spots
- Your chosen walking shoes for before or after outfit changes
- Tissues or wipes for last-minute clean-ups
Bonus tip: If your kids have a comfort item or favorite stuffed animal, bring it along. Whether it makes it into the photo or just helps them warm up between shots, it can be a game-changer.
4. Pick Fabrics Based on the Season
Here in Geneva and throughout the Fox Valley, we know that fall means crisp evenings and a chance of wind, while summer midday light can be brutal. I try to shoot in the beautiful soft light of golden hour, but even then, comfort still comes first.
- In fall: think cozy layers, knits, boots, and scarves that can come on or off
- In summer: opt for breathable fabrics and avoid anything that shows sweat easily
You don’t want to be tugging at sleeves or overheating mid-session. If you’re not comfortable, you won’t enjoy the experience — and trust me, it’ll show in the photos.
Why This All Matters (Hint: It’s Not Just About Looking Good)
We don’t do photo sessions to stock up on social media content (okay, maybe a little). We do them because we want to capture the fleeting, perfectly-imperfect beauty of right now. Your wildly independent toddler, your teenager’s new haircut, the way your spouse fits their hand naturally around your waist — that’s the stuff you’ll want to remember.
And when you’re comfortable, well-prepared, and wearing outfits that feel like a true reflection of your family, you’re not just in the photo. You’re present in it. That translates into images that feel full of joy, warmth, and connection — the kind you’ll actually want to print and hang in your home, not just scroll past on your phone.
And if you are still looking for inspiration, I highly recommend this Pinterest board that demonstrates coordinating without being matchy-matchy.
Ready for a Family Photo Experience That Feels Like You?
As a Geneva IL family photographer, I don’t just take pretty pictures. I help families enjoy their session time together so they walk away feeling connected, supported, and excited to see what we’ve created.
Need more help selecting outfits or prepping for your shoot? It’s all part of my process. From session planning guides to outfit tips tailored to your location and season, I make it as stress-free as possible.
Looking for a photographer who gets the juggle of family life, layers it with empathy and warmth, and delivers images that actually look like your family?
+ view comments . . .