Every fall, I see families rushing to put together picture-perfect outfits for family photos. As a mom and a photographer, I know firsthand how stressful this can feel. The biggest mistake I see? Mom picks her outfit last.

Here’s the problem: by the time everyone else’s clothes are chosen, mom is left scrambling. She throws something together that “works” but doesn’t always feel her best in. And if there’s one thing I’ve learned after years behind the camera, it’s this: if mom doesn’t love her outfit, it shows in every single picture.

Start With Mom

I always tell families: let mom pick her outfit first. Moms are usually the most particular about how they feel in photos — and for good reason. If you feel beautiful, you’ll shine in the photos. When you’re uncomfortable, it’s impossible to hide.

Once mom’s outfit is chosen, it’s so much easier to build a color palette and style around it. The rest of the family’s outfits are just puzzle pieces that fall into place.

How to Build Family Outfits Around Mom

Step 1: Choose mom’s look. Start with the colors and styles you feel best in. A flowy dress, a cozy sweater, or even a chic jumpsuit — whatever makes you feel like your best self.
Step 2: Coordinate, don’t match. Pull complementary tones for dad and the kids. If mom’s in a dusty pink dress, the family can wear neutrals like sage, tan, or cream.
Step 3: Add texture. Knits, corduroy, boots, and layered pieces photograph beautifully in fall light.
Step 4: Keep kids comfortable. A happy toddler in soft clothes beats a miserable one in stiff outfits every time.

Fall Outfit Inspiration

I know it can feel overwhelming to pull everything together, so I’ve rounded up some fall family photo outfit inspiration to make it easier. Think soft neutrals, muted tones, and just a hint of seasonal color — all pieces that photograph beautifully and are comfortable enough for real family life.

From dresses that make mom feel amazing, to cozy layers for dad, to toddler-friendly outfits that still look polished, these are some of my favorite finds this season.

👉 You can shop the full roundup.

Final Thoughts

Moms — give yourself permission to choose you first. When you feel confident and comfortable, the whole photoshoot feels effortless. And trust me — your family will thank you when they see the final photos.

So this fall, start with your outfit. Build the rest around it. And enjoy photos you’ll actually love hanging on your walls.