I should start by saying I rarely have professional photos taken. Since our wedding 27 years ago, we’ve only done studio or professional sessions three times — so I do get anxious about the “what to wear” question. I worry that the wrong outfit will ruin the photos, that I’ll hate the results, and that our money will be wasted.
If you’ve ever felt that way, you’re not alone.
Recently I needed an updated photo for a blogging opportunity. Beforehand I found myself scrolling through other bloggers’ profile pictures, studying outfits, hairstyles, posture — then hopping over to Pinterest to examine family photos. There were so many opinions and conflicting ideas about what to wear that I felt overwhelmed.
After all that research I decided to stop overthinking and develop a simple approach that actually worked for me. It’s short and practical:
Wear whatever makes you feel marvelous!
Forget stressing about solid versus print, v-neck versus turtleneck, or whether a jacket is necessary. Instead, choose something that makes you feel confident and comfortable. When clothing feels authentic, your posture, expression, and overall presence will show it.
Almost three years ago we had family photos taken at the camp where we worked. Because the session was outdoors and casual, I started by choosing my favorite casual outfit and then built the rest of the family’s outfits around that. That may sound a little self-centered, but someone has to start the process, and anchoring the color palette and style to one piece makes coordinating much easier.
We bought a few new items for everyone since it was time for fresh clothes anyway, but the key was choosing pieces each person actually liked and felt comfortable wearing. As a mom of only boys, I don’t have experience dressing daughters, but my sons were perfectly fine letting me suggest options. Still, one of them tried something on and said, “This will be OK for the picture, but I’ll probably never wear it again.”
If that’s how someone really feels about an outfit, it’s the wrong choice. Nothing looks natural when a smile is forced because the clothes feel silly. We switched him into something he already owned and loved, and the difference was immediate.
When you wear what feels comfortable, you’ll be more relaxed and enjoy the process — and that shows in the photos.
More recently it was difficult to gather everyone for a shoot, so I had pictures taken with my husband instead. I considered skipping a floral top because I worried it might be too busy, but I loved it — especially the flutter sleeves that make me feel great. My husband’s favorite black sweater coordinated well and kept the overall look grounded.
The session was efficient — the photographer captured exactly what I needed in about fifteen minutes — and the photos turned out natural and true to who we are. The key takeaways from my experience are simple and practical for anyone wondering what to wear for professional pictures or family portraits:
- Prioritize comfort and authenticity; if you wouldn’t wear it again, don’t wear it for the photo.
- Choose one anchor piece or color and coordinate outfits around it to keep the group cohesive without forcing matches.
- Avoid overthinking trends — pick clothes that make you feel confident and relaxed.
- Think about the location and mood of the shoot (casual outdoor, studio formal, etc.) and let that guide your choices.
- A good photographer makes a huge difference; finding someone who puts you at ease will improve the outcome.
So, if you’re planning family pictures, a profile shot, or professional photos: breathe, pick an outfit you love, and let that comfort translate into your expression. You’ll enjoy the experience more and your images will reflect the best, most natural version of you.
Photo credits for the family photos: Mandy O’Brennan Photography. Recent portraits: Little Prints Photography.
