As a Utah family photographer, one of the questions I’m asked most often is, “What should we wear for our family photos?” Styling doesn’t need to feel overwhelming. With a few intentional choices, you can create a timeless, cohesive look that photographs beautifully—whether you’re planning Salt Lake City family portraits, a motherhood session, or Park City family photos during your mountain getaway.

These simple styling tips will help your next portrait session feel effortless and elevated.

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1. Start With a Soft, Neutral Base

Neutral tones—creams, whites, soft grays, muted pinks, and gentle pastels—photograph beautifully in every setting. They keep the focus on your family and the emotion in your images.
As a photographer who specializes in light and airy family portraits in Utah, I can confidently say neutrals are always a winning choice.

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2. Coordinate, Don’t Match

Instead of everyone in identical outfits, choose a gentle color palette of 2–3 complementary tones.
Think: cream, muted sage, blush, soft tan.

Coordinating your wardrobe helps your photos feel elevated and polished, a hallmark of luxury family photography in Northern Utah.

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3. Say Yes to Texture

Textures add movement, depth, and softness—especially in natural light. Try layering:

• Linen dresses
• Chunky knit sweaters
• Ribbed rompers for babies
• Soft cotton or gauze button-ups

These choices create dimension in your portraits and pair beautifully with the clean, elegant look of studio family sessions in Utah.

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4. Keep Patterns Minimal

Delicate patterns—small florals or subtle stripes—are lovely on camera.
Avoid large, bold prints or logos that draw attention away from connection and expression, which are the heart of every session.

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5. Consider the Setting

Your location plays a big role in helping your wardrobe shine.

• Studio Sessions: Soft creams, neutrals, and pastels complement the airy, minimal environment.
• Outdoor Utah Locations: Earthy tones, light greens, blushes, beiges, and warm neutrals blend beautifully with Salt Lake’s foothills, Park City’s alpine landscapes, and Northern Utah’s golden fields.

If you’re booking family photos in Utah’s mountains, soft layers and warm-toned neutrals always photograph beautifully.

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6. Prioritize Comfort

Comfort is key—especially for little ones.
Choose breathable, non-itchy fabrics so your children feel free to move, play, and relax. When kids are comfortable, your portraits always feel more natural and genuine.

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7. Add Soft, Natural Accessories

For moms, consider delicate jewelry, a ribbon bow for little girls, or a light cardigan for layering.
Minimal accessories keep the focus on connection while adding just a touch of visual interest to your Utah family photography session.

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8. Prep the Night Before

A calm start sets the tone for a stress-free portrait experience.
The night before, try to:

• Lay out and steam outfits
• Pack snacks, wipes, and touch-ups
• Bring along any special heirlooms you’d love to include

This ensures your family photography session in Salt Lake City or Park City begins smoothly and beautifully.

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Final Thoughts

Family portraits are more than photographs—they’re heirlooms that hold your family’s story. With simple, thoughtful styling, your images will feel timeless, cohesive, and full of genuine emotion.

If you’re looking for a Utah family photographer who can guide you every step of the way—from wardrobe to artwork design—I would love to create something beautiful for your family.