By Sarah Fischer

There is something special about photographing children just as they are: curious, playful, and full of personality. The right outfit can help capture that personality while creating timeless images your family will treasure. When preparing kids for a photo shoot, focus on finding balance between comfort, coordination, and style. 

Location and Theme — Consider where the photo shoot will take place and the look you’re hoping to achieve. An outdoor family session might call for soft, natural colors and comfortable layers, while a studio portrait could lend itself to a more polished or classic outfit.

For seasonal photos, consider colors and textures that complement the setting. Warm earth tones work for fall, while pastels and lighter fabrics can be lovely for spring and summer. Holiday sessions may call for dressier pieces, festive colors, or classic patterns. The key is to make sure the clothing complements the surroundings without competing with them.

Comfort — Children are much more likely to look natural in photographs when they feel comfortable. Avoid clothing that is itchy, stiff, tight, or difficult to move in. A child who can’t wait to take off their outfit probably won’t be excited about posing for photos in it. Comfortable shoes are equally important, especially for outdoor sessions where children may be walking or exploring between photographs.

And don’t forget to consider the weather. Layers are particularly helpful because they allow you to adjust an outfit if temperatures change during the session.

Colors — Color is one of the easiest ways to create a cohesive look, particularly when photographing siblings or the entire family. Soft neutrals, muted blues, dusty pinks, creams, greens, and earth tones can create a timeless appearance. Choose a small palette of complementary shades and mix them throughout the family’s outfits. For example, one child might wear a soft blue dress while another wears cream with a subtle blue accent. This creates coordination without making everyone look identical.

Patterns and Logos — Patterns can add personality to a child’s outfit, but too many competing prints feel visually busy. If one child is wearing a patterned dress, consider keeping the other outfits simple. It’s also usually best to avoid large logos, oversized graphics, or bold wording. These elements can draw attention away from children’s faces and expressions. 

Hair Accessories — For girls, a thoughtfully chosen hair accessory can be the finishing touch that brings an outfit together. A bow, headband, or pretty clip can add a little color and personality without requiring an elaborate hairstyle. When choosing a hair accessory, look for a color that complements an element of the outfit rather than trying to match every detail exactly. For example, a bow that picks up the color of a floral print or cardigan can create a coordinated look.

The style of the accessory can also help establish the mood of the photographs. A classic bow can complement a traditional dress, while a smaller or simpler accessory may work beautifully for a more casual session.

For parents looking for polished, classic options, the WeeOnes x Feltman Brothers Hairbows & HairBands collection offers a variety of styles and sizes. Just remember that comfort matters here, too. Choose an accessory that stays securely in place without making your child uncomfortable. It’s also a good idea to bring an extra bow or hair accessory to the photo shoot in case one gets misplaced.

Coordination — When several children are being photographed together, coordination usually looks more natural than identical outfits. Choose a common color palette and then let each child’s personality show through. As long as the colors and overall style work together, the result can look cohesive without feeling overly matched.

Shoes and Layers — Shoes may not be the main focus of a portrait, but they can still affect the overall appearance of an outfit. Choose footwear that complements the clothing and is appropriate for the location.

For outdoor sessions, consider bringing a practical backup pair. The same goes for clothing. A spare outfit can be a lifesaver if a child spills something, gets muddy, or simply decides they don’t want to wear the original outfit anymore.

Layers such as cardigans, sweaters, jackets, and lightweight coats can also give your photographer more styling options throughout the session.

Personality — Don’t lose sight of why you’re taking the photographs in the first place: your child. If they have a favorite color, accessory, or clothing item that makes them feel confident, consider incorporating it into the outfit. A comfortable child with a genuine smile will always make a better photograph than a perfectly styled child who feels miserable.

When kids feel comfortable and confident, those natural smiles and spontaneous moments are much more likely to shine through (and those are often the photographs you’ll treasure most). 

Sarah Fischer is the Design Director of Feltman Brothers heirloom baby/kids clothing. For more information visit feltmanbrothers.com.