If you’ve ever stared at a pile of clothes the night before your photo session and wondered, What on earth is everyone going to wear? - you’re not alone.

As a Seattle family photographer, this is the #1 question I’m asked, and over the years I’ve developed a simple, reliable formula that works every single time.

The best part?
You don’t need a new wardrobe.
You just need a plan.

Here’s my go-to 5-Step Outfit Formula (aka the reason my clients stress way less and love their photos way more):

STEP 1: Start with the Statement Outfit

One person always has The Outfit - the dress you love, the sweater that makes you feel amazing, the romper that photographs beautifully.

That becomes the anchor for everyone else.

This step alone eliminates 90% of decision fatigue because it answers the biggest question:
“What colors and tones should we work around?”

STEP 2: Choose Your Anchor Color

Your statement outfit usually reveals your anchor color - the main color that sets the tone for the entire palette.

Think:

slate blue
dusty rose
rust
terracotta
olive
warm brown
deep wine

Avoid neon or overly bright colors — they cast onto skin and can overpower the image.

STEP 3: Add Two Supporting Neutrals

Once you have your anchor color, add two neutrals to round out the palette.

My favorite neutrals:

cream
tan
oatmeal
charcoal
navy
muted gray

This is why my clients look coordinated, not matchy.
Neutrals “soften” the palette and make the anchor color shine.

STEP 4: Mix Textures, Not Patterns

Textures add dimension, warmth, and depth - especially in outdoor settings.

Try pairing:

a knit sweater
with linen pants
next to a gauzy dress
next to denim

Patterns can work, but keep it to ONE person and keep it subtle. More than that gets visually chaotic.

STEP 5: Coordinate, Don’t Match

The old “everyone in jeans and white shirts” look?
Retired.

Your family will look more natural and elevated if the outfits feel related, not identical.

Focus on shared tones, textures, and colors - not duplicates.

Bonus: Dress for the Location

Some quick rules of thumb:

🌲 Forest: Avoid greens. You’ll blend in.
🏖 Beach: Soft blues + neutrals = magic.
🍁 Fall leaves: Warm tones like rust, wine, terracotta shine.
🏡 In-home: Cozy knits and soft textures photograph best.

If picking outfits still feels overwhelming, I’ve got you - all my clients receive my full What to Wear Guide + personalized help.
Your only job on session day is to show up and love on your people.