As a working mom, I know firsthand how chaotic life can get. Between juggling work deadlines, school drop-offs, and the endless laundry pile, planning a family photoshoot can feel overwhelming. But despite the hustle, capturing those special moments with our families is so worth it. Looking back at old pictures, I see how much my son has grown, how our little family has evolved, and—most importantly—the love we share.
Over the years, I’ve learned some tricks to make family photoshoots less stressful and more enjoyable. And a big part of that is choosing the right outfits for the season. The right clothing can enhance the beauty of the season while ensuring everyone feels comfortable and confident. So, here’s my guide to dressing your family for a stunning photoshoot, no matter the time of year.
Spring: Fresh and Floral
Spring photoshoots are my favorite—there’s something magical about blooming flowers and fresh greenery. When dressing for a spring session, I go for light, airy colors that complement the season’s brightness. Think pastels like blush pink, baby blue, soft lavender, and light mint.
Outfit Ideas:
- Moms: A flowy floral maxi dress paired with delicate jewelry
- Dads: A light-colored button-up with khakis or chinos
- Kids: Light pastel dresses or simple collared shirts with shorts
Pro Tip: Layers are your friend! Spring weather can be unpredictable, so bring a light cardigan or denim jacket for versatility.
Summer: Bright and Breezy
Summertime means warm weather and golden sunsets—perfect for a relaxed, sun-kissed photoshoot. But as a mom, I also have to consider the heat (especially since my son tends to get grumpy when he’s too hot).
Outfit Ideas:
- Moms: A sleeveless midi dress in a solid color or subtle pattern
- Dads: Linen shirts with rolled-up sleeves and breathable chinos
- Kids: Cute rompers, sundresses, or polo shirts with shorts
Pro Tip: Stick to lightweight fabrics like cotton and linen to keep everyone cool. Also, avoid neon colors—they can reflect harshly in photos.
Fall: Cozy and Classic
Fall photos are some of the most beautiful, with golden leaves and crisp air. This season is perfect for layering, and I love embracing warm, earthy tones like burnt orange, mustard yellow, deep green, and burgundy.
Outfit Ideas:
- Moms: A knit sweater with a midi skirt or jeans and ankle boots
- Dads: A plaid flannel or neutral sweater with dark jeans
- Kids: Corduroy dresses, cozy sweaters, or suspender pants
Pro Tip: Add textured elements like scarves, boots, and cardigans to create depth in your photos.
Winter: Elegant and Snuggly
Winter shoots can be dreamy, but dressing for them requires warmth and style. Since my son and I both get cold easily, I make sure we bundle up while still looking coordinated.
Outfit Ideas:
- Moms: A chic wool coat over a sweater dress with tall boots
- Dads: A tailored coat over a turtleneck or classic sweater
- Kids: Cute knitted sweaters, beanies, and mittens
Pro Tip: Stick to deep, rich colors like navy, emerald green, and maroon to contrast beautifully with a snowy or gray winter backdrop.
Making It Work as a Busy Mom
Time Management: Planning Ahead
I’ll be honest—there have been times I scrambled the night before a photoshoot, digging through laundry piles and realizing my son’s shirt was covered in paint stains. Now, I start planning at least two weeks in advance.
- Set a theme and color palette early. Pinterest is my go-to for inspiration.
- Check everyone’s closets. Shop only if necessary to avoid last-minute stress.
- Lay out outfits the night before. This prevents the morning chaos of searching for missing socks!
Self-Care: Feeling Confident in Front of the Camera
As moms, we often focus so much on making sure our kids look adorable that we forget about ourselves. I used to dread being in photos because I felt self-conscious, but I’ve learned to embrace the moment.
- Pick an outfit that makes you feel confident and comfortable.
- Get your hair and makeup done if it makes you feel good (even if it’s just a simple at-home look!).
- Remember that your kids won’t remember whether you had the “perfect” outfit—they’ll remember the love and joy you shared.
Overcoming Mom Guilt
It’s easy to feel guilty for “wasting” time or money on a photoshoot, but I’ve come to see it as an investment in memories. Life moves fast, and these moments are fleeting. I remind myself that my son will cherish these photos one day, just like I cherish the old pictures of my own childhood.
Maintaining Work-Life Balance
Between work meetings and parenting responsibilities, carving out time for a photoshoot can feel impossible. But I’ve learned that balance is about priorities.
- Schedule photoshoots around your least busy times. I opt for weekends or early mornings before the day gets hectic.
- Make it fun, not stressful. Let kids be themselves, and don’t stress over every little detail. The best photos capture real, unfiltered joy.
- Accept imperfections. Some of my favorite pictures are the candid, unplanned ones where we’re just laughing together.
You’re Doing Amazing, Mama
If you’re reading this and feeling overwhelmed, take a deep breath. I see you. I know the struggles of trying to do it all, and I promise—it’s okay if everything isn’t picture-perfect. Family photos are about love, connection, and capturing this chapter of your life, no matter how messy it may seem.
So, pick outfits that make you happy, embrace the chaos, and enjoy the experience. Years from now, when you look back at these pictures, you won’t remember the stress. You’ll remember the giggles, the hugs, and the love that shines through in every frame.
You’ve got this, Mama!
I’m Zara Michell
