What to Wear for Family Photos in Pennsylvania (Season-by-Season Guide)
Outfits are the bread and butter of your family photo session.
What you wear has a huge impact on the overall look and feel of your gallery—and trust me, thoughtful wardrobe choices can take your photos from “nice” to next level.
As a Berks and Montgomery County family photographer, I’m here to help you plan outfits that not only photograph beautifully but also feel like YOU. This season-by-season guide will help you choose the right tones, layers, and textures—without the stress.
First: Know Your Neutrals
When we think neutrals, most people jump to black or bright white—but those are actually a bit too harsh for family photos.
Instead, lean into soft, warm neutrals like:
- Cream
- Tan
- Beige
- Camel
- Earthy browns
- Muted olive or sage
These tones complement Pennsylvania’s natural landscapes and photograph beautifully in every season.
Add Pops of Color (Yes, Please!)
That vibrant, true-to-life color you see in my work?
It comes from you adding intentional color to your outfits. You don’t need to go bold, but even muted or rich tones can bring your session to life.
Stick to:
- Solid colors or minimal patterns
- Jewel tones in fall/winter
- Soft pastels in spring
- Bright, vivid colors in summer
Avoid:
- Neon colors
- Busy graphics or logos
- Distracting patterns
What to Wear: Season-by-Season Outfit Tips
🍂 Fall Family Photos in PA
Vibes: Warm, cozy, earthy, and layered
Best Colors: Rust, mustard, olive, burgundy, camel, navy
Textures to Add: Knits, denim, flannel, corduroy
💡 Pro Tip: Start with a patterned dress (like floral or plaid) and pull tones from it for the rest of the family. Don’t forget cozy layers like vests, cardigans, and boots.
❄️ Winter Sessions
Vibes: Neutral, minimal, cozy and classic
Best Colors: Cream, deep green, gray, charcoal, wine red
Textures to Add: Wool, cable-knit sweaters, velvet, heavy knits
💡 Pro Tip: Layer up for style and warmth. Scarves, coats, or even faux fur vests can bring a sophisticated winter look while keeping everyone toasty.
🌷 Spring Family Photos
Vibes: Soft, airy, romantic
Best Colors: Blush, sage, soft blue, cream, mauve, dusty lavender
Textures to Add: Lightweight cotton, linen, flowy dresses
💡 Pro Tip: Maxi dresses are perfect for spring photos. Choose something that moves with the wind and feels light and fresh.
☀️ Summer Sessions
Vibes: Bright, clean, energetic
Best Colors: Coral, teal, white (with texture!), yellow, denim blue
Textures to Add: Linen, gauze, woven fabrics, cotton
💡 Pro Tip: Keep it breezy. Try rompers for kids, button-down linen shirts for dad, and open-toe sandals or espadrilles.
🎨 Creating a Color Palette That Flows
The most important part of styling your family is choosing a color palette that works across everyone’s outfits. Here’s how:
- Start with a Statement Piece:
Pick one person’s outfit first—like a floral dress or patterned shirt—and pull the color palette from there. - Stick to 2–3 Main Colors + 1 Neutral Base
For example: rust, sage green, mustard + cream - Coordinate > Match:
Avoid putting everyone in the same color shirt. Instead, coordinate with similar tones and fabrics that complement each other. - Mix Textures + Styles:
A mix of denim, linen, cotton, and knits adds depth without being busy. Try pairing maxi dresses with short dresses or mixing up denim washes.
👟 Let’s Talk Details: Layering, Shoes & More
✔️ Layering = Variety
Adding jackets, cardigans, or vests creates depth without changing outfits. A simple jean jacket can completely change a look!
✔️ Shoes Matter!
Never pick neon running sneakers, stick with:
- Boots
- Sandals
- Canvas sneakers (like Converse or Vans)
💡 Avoid: Brightly colored shoes, athletic logos, or muddy soles
✔️ Undergarments Matter, Too!
Wear nude-toned undergarments to prevent anything showing through.
Ladies, if you’re wearing an off-shoulder or thin-strapped top, consider a strapless bra (I highly recommend Cakes Body—total game-changer!).
👕 A Quick Reminder for the Guys
Please avoid the following:
- Polo shirts
- Athletic materials
- Logos
Instead, choose:
- Cotton henleys
- Neutral-tone t-shirts
- Linen button-downs
- Knit sweaters
👖 Mix in khakis, colored chinos, or different denim washes for a layered, casual look.
📍 What to Wear for Family Photos in Berks & Montgomery County
Planning your outfits doesn’t have to be stressful!
Just remember to coordinate—not match—stick with seasonal tones, and let your family’s personality shine through. I’m always happy to review outfit choices before your session, too!
📸 Need location ideas that match your outfits? Check out my post: Top 5 Family Photo Locations in Berks County
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