Wardrobe Tips from San Jose Family Photographer – Photos by Kim E
Booking your family photo session is exciting and then comes the question that stumps almost every family “What should we wear?” As a San Jose family photographer, it’s one of the most common questions I hear before every session and if we’re thinking of an outdoor, nature session, then shades of blue is where I love to suggest you start.
Why Blue
Starting with shades of blue for your wardrobe gives us an incredible starting point. Blue is the ideal color to complement the golden light, earthy sandy paths, lush green foliage, soft browns, and warm tones of nature.
- Blue contrasts with green. A green trail, open meadow, or golden grasses, blue pops against nature without clashing.
- Blue is flattering. From navy to powder blue, the color family works across all skin tones and ages, from toddlers to adults.
- Blue photographs beautifully in natural light. Especially during golden hour, blue tones glow warmly and feel rich and inviting in photos.
- Blue feels timeless. Trendy colors can date a photo but because blue is a primary color, it keeps your family portraits feeling classic for years to come.
Look at how effortlessly a navy maxi dress, a blue-toned plaid shirt on the little one, and a light chambray button-down on dad come together. The family feels cohesive without being matchy-matchy and they stand out naturally against the backdrop.
Coordinate, Don’t Match
One of the biggest outfit mistakes families make is dressing everyone in identical outfits. Instead, think in terms of a color palette. Choose 2–3 complementary colors and let each person express their own personality within that palette, like shades of blue.
For a nature session, a winning palette might look like:
- Mom: Navy or dusty blue maxi dress or flowy top with fitted pants
- Dad: Light blue or grey button-down with dark jeans
- Little one: A fun plaid or patterned piece that pulls in the blue family, paired with jeans
The result? A family that looks put-together and intentional, without looking like they’re wearing the same outfits.
What to Wear for:
Mom
- Go flowy. Maxi dresses and skirts move beautifully in the breeze and photograph well during outdoor sessions.
- Choose solid or subtle textures. Avoid loud prints that distract from your face and your family.
- Comfort matters. You’ll be walking, kneeling, spinning your toddler, and laughing. Wear something you can move freely in.
- Accessorize simply. A delicate necklace, simple bracelet, or stacked bangles add personality without overwhelming the frame.
Dad
- A well-fitted button-down is your best friend. Whether tucked or untucked, it looks polished without being overdressed.
- Dark jeans or chinos keep the look grounded and casual.
- Skip the graphic tees and busy patterns. Keep it simple so the focus stays on the family connection, not the shirt.
- Wear clean, coordinating shoes. Shoes show up in photos more than you’d think.
Kids
- Let their personality shine. Kids look adorable in playful patterns so plaid, stripes, and soft prints work great as long as they tie back to the family’s color palette.
- Dress for comfort first. A toddler who is uncomfortable in their outfit will show it. Soft fabrics and easy-to-move-in clothing make for happy, natural expressions.
- Layer it up. A fun plaid button-down over a light jacket adds visual interest and dimension.
- Don’t forget the shoes. Bright sneakers, sandals, or little boots can add a sweet pop of color and personality.
Final Tips From Your San Jose Family Photographer
• Plan outfits at least a week ahead so you have time to make adjustments or shop for missing pieces.
• Bring a backup outfit for the little ones especially since spills and dirt can happen
• Trust your photographer. Share your outfit ideas ahead of time with Photos by Kim E, create a shared Pinterest board for extra inspiration, you will receive feedback throughout the planning session so you and your family feel confident before your session.
The best outfits are the ones that make you feel like yourselves, relaxed, happy, and connected. When you’re comfortable in what you’re wearing, it shows in the photos. And when those outfits are thoughtfully coordinated in shades of blues against a stunning natural backdrop, you are magical.
Ready to book your outdoor family session? Let’s capture your family’s story!
Contact Photos by Kim E to start planning your session!
San Jose Family Photos | Your family, beautifully photographed.
Whether it’s a cozy at-home family day, an adventurous outing, or dynamic branding photos, Photos by Kim E blends portraits, lifestyle, and documentary photography to create vibrant images that share who you are.