What to Wear for Your Photo Session?

Tips to decide what to wear for your family, engagement, maternity, and newborn photo sessions!

Did you know that 90% of what you see the women and infants wearing in my photos came from my clients closet!?!

“What should we wear?” is the number one question I am asked and one of the biggest challenges for everyone planning a photo session. Family photos, engagement photos, maternity and newborn photos; all of them can be a challenge to decide what to wear. People want to look their best, be comfortable, and they want their photos to look amazing.

I walk my clients through wardrobe selection for every kind of session: family, engagement, newborn, senior, and maternity. I help them coordinate so what they wear works with the location, the vibe, so it flows together, and adds to the photo rather than distract from it. Whether you are choosing something from my client closet or using your own closet, I make what to wear for your photo session so easy!

Wardrobe can completely change the look and feel of your photos. Take a look at these two couples I recently photographed who opted for my complimentary outfit change at their session. Same couple, both in nature, but these photos feel different!

Here are my easy to follow tips when choosing what to wear for your photo session. This can be used for all kinds of sessions: Family photos, engagement sessions, maternity & newborn session, and even Senior sessions.

Remember if you want more details or one-on-one professional expertise, let’s talk about a session together!

What to Wear for Your Photo Session

Choosing the perfect outfit for your photo session can make a big difference in the final result of your photographs. At Kelly Jacobi Photography, I want to ensure that you feel confident and look your best. So, here are some tips to help you decide what to wear for your upcoming session:

1. Reflect Your Personal Style

It's important to stay true to your personal style and choose outfits that make you feel comfortable. Wear clothes that reflect who you are and make you feel confident. This will ensure that your personality shines through in the photographs.

2. Coordinate, But Don't Match

Coordinating outfits with your family or significant other can create a cohesive and visually pleasing look. However, avoid wearing identical outfits as it can appear too staged. Instead, aim for a color palette that complements each other, with a mix of patterns and textures to add visual interest.

3. Dress for the Location

Consider the location of your photo session when planning your outfit. If it's a formal setting, such as a cityscape or elegant garden, opt for more dressy attire. For a casual outdoor shoot, choose comfortable and relaxed outfits that blend well with nature. Matching the style of your clothes to the surroundings will create a harmonious overall aesthetic.

4. Avoid Loud Logos and Busy Patterns

While it's great to express your personal style, it's best to avoid clothes with big logos or busy patterns. These can distract from the main focus of the photos, which is you! Opt for solid colors or subtle patterns that will not overpower the images or draw attention away from your face.

5. Consider the Season and Time of Day

Think about the season and time of day when selecting your outfit. In the warmer months, lighter fabrics and pastel colors can create a fresh and airy look. Fall and winter sessions provide an opportunity for layering and incorporating richer tones. Dressing appropriately for the weather will ensure your comfort during the photo shoot.

6. Pay Attention to Details

Don't forget about the smaller details that can make a big impact. Accessorize your outfit with jewelry, scarves, hats, or belts to add visual interest. Consider the footwear as well, ensuring that it complements your overall look and matches the formality or casualness of the session.


Ultimately, the most important thing is for you to feel comfortable and confident in your outfit (and with your photographer). When you feel good, it will naturally translate into stunning photographs. If you have any doubts or need further guidance, don't hesitate to reach out to our team at Kelly Jacobi Photography. I’m here to help you look your best and capture beautiful moments that you'll cherish forever.


When you choose Kelly Jacobi Photography for your photo session, you can expect a truly personalized and extraordinary experience. I understand that each client has their own unique vision, and I am here to bring that vision to life!


To ensure that every detail aligns with your dream session, I offer a complimentary consultation where we’ll get to know each other on a short phone call. You’ll be able to tell me what you’re hoping for in a session and I’ll be able to answer all your questions. When you book your session we'll discuss your vision, preferences, and location ideas to create the amazing photo session you’ve always dreamed of!

Ready for own beautiful photo session?

Previous
Previous

Finding Beauty in Every Season: Examples of Photo Sessions in Wausau, Wisconsin Year-Round

Next
Next

Why I Include Hair & Make Up with My Boudoir Sessions