What to Wear for Family Photos in Devon | A Family Photographer’s Guide
If there’s one question I’m asked before almost every family session, it’s this:
“What should we wear?”
The good news? There isn’t one perfect outfit. The best family photos aren’t about wearing expensive clothes or matching perfectly - they’re about feeling comfortable, confident, and like yourselves.
After photographing families across Somerset, Devon and further afield for over a decade, I’ve learnt that the simplest outfit choices are often the most timeless. Here are my favourite tips to help you choose outfits you’ll love looking back on for years to come.
Choose Colours That Work Together, Not Outfits That Match
Gone are the days of everyone wearing white shirts and blue jeans or making sure the children are all in matching outfits.
Instead, think about choosing a colour palette. Pick three or four colours that complement each other and let each family member wear something slightly different.
Some combinations that always photograph beautifully include:
Cream, beige and soft browns
Sage green, beige and denim
Rust, camel and olive
Dusty blue, cream and grey
This creates a natural, relaxed look that keeps the attention on your family rather than your clothes.
Wear Clothes You Feel Comfortable In
Your session will involve walking, cuddling, playing games, lifting children and probably sitting on the ground at some point!
If you’re constantly adjusting your outfit or worrying about how something fits, it can take you out of the moment.
Choose clothes that make you feel like the best version of yourself. Comfort always photographs better than fashion trends.
Add Texture Instead of Busy Patterns
Texture brings photographs to life.
Think linen dresses, chunky knit jumpers, cotton shirts, knitted cardigans or muslin fabrics. These add depth without distracting from your family’s connection.
Try to avoid:
Large logos
Neon colours
Cartoon characters
Very busy prints
Tiny stripes that can create distracting patterns on camera
Dress for the Season
One of my favourite things about outdoor family photography is embracing the seasons.
Spring: Soft greens, creams, light denim and florals.
Summer: Linen, light cotton, sandy neutrals and pale blues.
Autumn: Rust, mustard, olive, knitted layers and warm earthy tones.
Winter: Chunky knitwear, long coats, scarves and rich neutral colours.
The right colours can help your family blend beautifully with the natural surroundings.
Don’t Forget the Little Details
It’s often the smallest things that make the biggest difference.
Before your session, consider:
Removing smart watches if you’d prefer a timeless look.
Emptying pockets.
Making sure clothes are freshly ironed if needed.
Bringing spare outfits for little ones.
Packing snacks and drinks for children that don’t stain.
Bringing a favourite comfort toy if your child has one.
And most importantly…
Don’t worry if someone gets muddy.
Some of the very best photographs happen when everyone forgets about staying clean and simply enjoys being together.
Remember Why You’re Having These Photos Taken
Your children won’t remember whether your jumper matched your daughter’s dress perfectly.
They’ll remember being cuddled.
Being tickled.
Holding your hand.
Laughing until everyone fell over.
Years from now, those are the moments you’ll treasure too.
The perfect family photograph isn’t about perfect outfits.
It’s about capturing the love, laughter and connection that already exists between you.
Looking for a Family Photographer in Somerset or Devon?
If you’re thinking about booking a relaxed family photography session in Taunton, Exeter - throughout Somerset/Devon and the surrounding areas, I’d love to hear from you.
My sessions are child-led, laid-back and designed to capture genuine moments rather than forced smiles. I’ll guide you every step of the way—including helping you choose outfits if you’d like a little extra advice.
Because the best family photographs aren’t created by perfection.
They’re created by simply being together.
