What to Wear for Family Photos: Tips from a Gilbert, AZ Family Photographer

What to Wear for Family Photos | Gilbert Family Photographer

As a Gilbert family photographer who offers full-service sessions—from wardrobe planning to custom wall art—I’ve learned what works (and what doesn’t). Let’s make getting ready for your session feel simple and stress-free.

Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend items I genuinely love and would suggest to my own clients.

1. Choose a Color Palette (Not Matching Outfits)

One of the first steps in planning your family portraits in Gilbert is deciding on a color palette. I help you choose tones that flatter your skin and coordinate beautifully without being too “matchy.” There are colors that can wash you out—and others that make your eyes pop.

My best advice? Think timeless over trendy. That cute dress from the store might catch your eye, but what looks great now could feel dated later. Since many of my clients plan to display their portraits in their homes, I recommend sticking to classic, neutral tones—especially earth tones—with a possible pop of color (particularly fun for senior portraits in Gilbert AZ).

Wardrobe planning is part of our in-person consultation, where we dream up your perfect session—so you won’t be doing this alone.

Women’s Outfit Inspiration (Some links below are affiliate links—thank you for supporting my work when you shop through them!)

Looking for inspiration? Here are three timeless, portrait-friendly outfits that photograph beautifully in Gilbert’s light and landscapes:

1️⃣ Soft Neutrals for a Timeless Look
A flowing cream maxi dress flatters almost every skin tone and works perfectly in desert, orchard, or park settings. The movement in the skirt adds elegance without feeling fussy.
👉 Shop the look here

2️⃣ Earthy Tones for Warmth and Depth
A chocolate-brown button-down maxi dress brings richness to portraits and pairs beautifully with golden hour lighting in Gilbert’s parks and open spaces.
👉 Shop the look here

3️⃣ Short & Structured for a Modern Twist
A slate-blue belted mini dress offers a fashion-forward option for urban sessions or when you want a slightly dressier look.
👉 Shop the look here

2. Dress for the Location and the Season

As a Gilbert senior photographer and family portrait artist, I help clients choose locations that complement both their personality and wardrobe.

For example:

• At the Riparian Preserve, think soft, natural tones and flowy fabrics.

• For Downtown Gilbert, layers, textures, and a slightly edgier look can work beautifully.

• In the desert, choose pieces that move—like dresses with flow or shirts with texture.

Not sure what will look good on camera? I’ve created a free guide with family photo outfit ideas to help you feel confident and prepared for your session.

3. Dress for Movement, Not Just the Camera

No one loves stiff portraits. If your clothes restrict movement, it can be hard to relax—and that affects your photos. Pick pieces that allow you and your kids to move, play, and connect naturally.

Think texture, flow, and comfort. Remember, it’s not just about what the outfit looks like—it’s about how it feels.

4. Avoid These Common Outfit Mistakes

Take it from a Phoenix-area portrait pro—these are a few outfit pitfalls to avoid:

• Neon colors, loud logos, or athletic wear. (Trust me, I love bright colors and comfy clothes—but not for portrait sessions!)

• Wrong footwear. You can have the perfect outfit and totally throw it off with the wrong shoes. Sneakers rarely work well in portraits unless styled intentionally.

Bonus Tip: Try everything on a few days before your session. This helps you avoid last-minute stress (and those unexpected Target runs!).

5. My Best Advice? Don’t Overthink It.

Still unsure what to wear for family photos? Here’s what I always tell my Gilbert moms:

Start with your outfit first—pick something that makes you feel confident and beautiful. If mom feels good, everyone else follows. Build the rest of the family’s outfits around what makes you feel like your best self.

To make it even easier, I created a free Photoshoot Planning Guide just for you. It includes:

• Tips for building a color palette

• A printable wardrobe checklist

• Links to a few of my favorite pieces (some are affiliate links—at no extra cost to you)

• Planning inspiration to help you prepare for both your session and printed artwork

👉   Download Your Free Planning Guide 

If you're planning family photos in Gilbert or the surrounding area, this guide will walk you through every step—from wardrobe prep to artwork selection.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're preparing for family portraits in Gilbert or celebrating a high school milestone, I'm here to guide you through a boutique photography experience. From outfit planning to designing heirloom artwork, I’ll help you feel confident every step of the way.

Not sure if this is the right season for your portraits? Or wondering what to wear? Let’s talk.
✨ [Schedule your discovery call today] and take the first step toward portraits that celebrate your story.

Because your family deserves to be seen—and remembered.

XOXO
-Andria