No, You Don’t Need to Match (PS. Please don’t!)
Remember the old days of white shirts and jeans? Let’s not go back.
I see it every week. Mums frantically messaging me days before their session. “Help! What to wear for the photoshoot? Should we all match? Do I need to buy new clothes?”
Here’s what I tell them: You don’t need to buy a whole new wardrobe. We don’t want perfection. We want it to be about you, feeling like you.
Let’s Start With the Feeling, Not the Fabric
How do you want to feel when you look back at these photos?
Relaxed? Cozy? Like yourselves?That’s your starting point.
Choose clothes you can play in. Cuddle in. Chase your toddler in. Comfort and confidence make you look amazing.
Since most Sydney families love outdoor shoots, think earthy and relaxed. Soft tones work beautifully with our natural settings. You’ll look like you belong in those golden afternoon photos.
Colours that Work Beautifully (Without Being Matchy-Matchy)
Skip the neons. Avoid bold logos. Say no to black or bright white.
Here are colours that photograph beautifully:
- Oat and cream tones
- Rust and terracotta
- Sage and olive greens
- Soft denim blues
- Blush and dusty pinks
- Warm tans and caramels
The key is to complement, not clone. Your family looks best in a gentle blend of these tones. Mix one print with solid colours for balance.
Pro tip: Lay everyone’s outfit on the bed together. Does it look balanced? Good. You’re ready.
A note on Trendy Retro Colours (that we all totally love!) : Bold is Beautiful
If soft neutrals aren’t your thing — no worries! Bold colours work beautifully in natural photos, especially if your family’s energy leans bright, colourful, and a little quirky (think: your toddler dressed themselves and it totally works)
- Think retro colour palettes: mustard yellow, teal, rust, cherry red, dusty lilac
- Go for one statement piece per person: striped pants, a floral dress, graphic tee
- Balance with simpler pieces around it — too many prints can get busy on camera
- Vertical stripes, vintage daisy prints, and playful graphics are on trend and photo-friendly
Here are a few trendy prints that work:
Tiny ditsy prints
Soft vertical stripes (like the blue and white in the photo)|
Small florals on light backgrounds
Gentle polka dots
Subtle gingham checks
Source: Pinterest
Textures > Trends
Natural fabrics photograph best. Think linen, cotton, muslin, and soft knits.
Try these styles:
- Flowing dresses that move with you
- Oversized shirts with rolled sleeves
- Comfortable rompers and jumpsuits
- Soft cardigans for layering
Layers add depth to photos. Bring a cozy throw or hat for outdoor sessions. Your photographer will love the options.
For kids, comfort equals cooperation. Choose clothes they can move in freely
Let the Kids Be Kids (Yes, Even in a Dress)
Don’t worry about shoes if you haven’t got one to go. Barefoot is beautiful, especially for toddlers.
Great options for little ones:
- Overalls and dungarees
- Comfortable jumpsuits
- Soft bloomers with simple tops
- Easy onesies for babies
Let go of perfection. Messy hair? Grass stains? That’s where the real moments happen.
Bonus tip: Bring a backup outfit just in case. Toddlers have their own plans.
Where to Find Outfits That Won’t Break the Bank
You don’t need to shop at expensive boutiques. Here are some trusted Australian options I love:
Premium but worth it:
- Jamie Kay for those special pieces that feels like an heirloom
- Nature Baby for organic, beautifully simple basics
- Seed Heritage for timeless styles in soft hues
- Country Road for modern, elevated essentials
- Goldie + Ace for a vintage-inspired vibe with playful pops of colour
Budget-friendly finds:
- Cotton On Kids for affordable, comfy basics in fun colours and easy fabrics.
- Zara Kids for on-trend pieces with unique textures, prints, and playful flair.
- Target for budget-friendly finds that surprisingly photograph well.
- H&M for seasonal staples and neutral-toned basics that mix and match effortlessly.
Styling Tips from a Mum + Photographer
Want to know a secret? I love helping with outfit choices.
After you book, I always send a style guide. It’s packed with examples and tips for your family.
Think of photoshoots as playdates in disguise. Dress for movement and fun.
Some of my favourite recent combinations:
- Mum in a flowing rust dress, dad in cream linen shirt, toddler in soft overalls
- Family in mixed sage and oat tones with textured layers
- Everyone in different shades of the same colour family
What NOT to Wear
Skip these choices:
- Matching identical outfits for everyone
- Loud prints or big brand logos
- Tight or uncomfortable clothing
- Anything you wouldn’t normally wear around your kids
Your comfort shows in photos. Choose pieces that feel like you.
Wear What Feels Like Home
These photos are for you. For your kids to look back and remember your hands. Your laugh. That dress you always wore when you cuddled them.
The best outfit is one that feels like love.
Still not sure what to wear? Let’s chat. I’d love to help you pull it together.
