Choosing Clothing Colors doesn't have to be stressful!


Family portraits capture timeless memories, and selecting the right clothing colors is crucial for creating a cohesive and beautiful image. While coordinating colors is essential, remember that matching perfectly is often unnecessary. While the classic jeans with black shirts or khaki and white combos are sometimes obligatory, here are some tips to help you choose clothing colors that not only look great together but also complement your surroundings.

Coordinate...

without being too matchy.


When choosing colors for your family portrait, think about coordinating rather than matching. This allows each family member to express their individuality while still looking harmonious as a group. Here are a few strategies to achieve this:


Select a Color Palette

Choose a color palette of 3-5 colors that complement each other. For instance, consider soft pastels for a gentle look or rich earth tones for a more grounded vibe.



Incorporate Textures and Patterns Mix in textures and patterns to add visual interest. But be careful to keep patterns in the same family of colors to avoid clashing.

Consider...

your surroundings.


The backdrop of your portrait session plays a significant role in how your clothing colors are perceived. Choose your colors based on the environment:


Natural Settings

For parks or gardens, opt for colors that blend with nature, such as muted greens, browns, or soft yellows. Earthy tones will accentuate your surroundings while ensuring your family remains the focal point.


Urban Landscapes

If your portrait session takes place in a city, bolder colors can create a striking contrast against urban backgrounds. Think vibrant blues, reds, or yellows to stand out.

Solid or Pattern..

to avoid distraction.


When faced with a busy background, such as a mural or a scenic vista, opt for solid colors. Here’s why:


Avoid Distraction

Solid colors help keep the focus on the people in the photo. Busy patterns can compete for attention, making the overall image feel chaotic.


Choose Timeless Over Trendy

Solid colors are classic and timeless, ensuring that your family portraits remain relevant as styles change over the years.

Showcase...

your family's style.


Ultimately, your family portrait should reflect your unique style and personality. Encourage each family member to choose clothing that they feel comfortable and confident in. Here are a few ways to personalize your choices:


Accessorize Thoughtfully

Hats, scarves, and jewelry can add character without overpowering your color scheme. They’re great ways to introduce a little flair that feels authentic to each individual.

Dress for the Season

Consider the season and weather when selecting colors. Warm tones can echo the beauty of autumn, while light pastels may reflect the freshness of spring.

Many times I hear the question, "But how do I coordinate colours? How do I know if they look good together? One good way is to look at nature. The colors we see every day in the landscape around us play together in wonderful harmony, which you can see in the pictures below. It’s also a good idea to do a trial run. Lay out everyone’s outfits together to see how they look. In the end, they are your portraits and you will want them to reflect your family. By taking some time to thoughtfully choose the clothing, you will be sure to have portraits that you will cherish forever.