What to Wear for Your Arvada Family Photos: Simple Tips for Stress-Free Style

Erin Wernlein
Apr 17
2 min read

Planning your family photo session should be exciting! But often, the question "What should we wear?" can bring on unexpected stress.

As a family photographer right here in the Arvada area, it's the concern I hear most often. Let's put that worry aside with a simple guide to choosing outfits that feel effortless, look fantastic, and let your family's unique personality shine.

Forget the pressure of perfect matching outfits. Instead, let's focus on coordination, comfort, and authenticity.

Foundation First: Prioritize Your Own Comfort

My top tip? Choose your outfit first (especially for moms, who often coordinate everyone else!). Why? Because when you feel comfortable and confident in what you're wearing, you'll be more relaxed and present during the session. That feeling translates directly into beautiful, genuine photos. Find something you love, that fits well, and makes you feel great.

Mom wears comfortable dress during family photoshoot — Comfortable outfit for family photoshoot

Coordinate Colors, Don't Clone Outfits

Once your core outfit is chosen, select clothing for the rest of the family that complements it. Think in terms of a color palette – maybe 2-4 coordinating colors (like blues, creams, and a touch of mustard, or greens, browns, and blush). Avoid everyone wearing the exact same thing (like the old jeans-and-a-white-shirt look). This allows individual styles to emerge while ensuring the group looks cohesive and visually appealing.

Dress for the Setting: Location & Season Matter

Consider where and when your session is taking place – this heavily influences outfit choices and will contribute to your stress-free style:

Location Logic
Our beautiful Colorado backdrop plays a role! If we're exploring trails in the foothills near Arvada, practical footwear is key. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes work best on uneven ground. For urban settings or park sessions, you might have more flexibility. Your feet will likely show in photos, so ensure shoes complement the outfits and are comfortable for walking.
Seasonal Style
Dressing for the Colorado season ensures comfort and appropriate style.
- Summer: Light, airy fabrics and dresses photograph beautifully in the warmth.
- Fall: Embrace layers! Sweaters, cardigans, scarves, or vests add depth, texture, and warmth, perfect for those golden autumn days.
  Family wears layers during fall photoshoot

The Heart of the Matter: It's About Connection, Not Clothes

Ultimately, while thoughtful outfits enhance your photos, they aren't the most critical element. What truly makes your images timeless and meaningful is the connection, joy, and love shared between your family members. Feeling comfortable and being yourselves is far more important than achieving outfit "perfection." My goal is to capture that authentic bond.