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Styled family photography sessions in Brisbane and Surrounds – What to wear?

Family, Session Tips

The days of “everyone in khakis and a white shirt” are thankfully long gone. Instead of matching outfits, choose a palette of about 4 coordinating colours that are represented across all of the family’s outfits.

Your photos should look timeless and classic, so start with one or two neutral shades (think cream, grey, beige), and then add some pops of color. Consider:

  • the session location – you don’t want to blend into the background
  • the season – deeper hues for autumn/winter, lighter colours for spring/summer
  • your decor – your wall art should fit the room where it is displayed

For styled family photography sessions in Brisbane and surrounds start your planning process on what to wear for your family session with an outfit that Mom feels fabulous in, and then build the outfits of the rest of the family around that. Above all, choose outfits that are comfortable and will allow you the freedom to move and play.

A family on the beach during a styled photography session, wearing coordinated outfits and enjoying playful, natural moments together - Paula Jane Photography

Say Yes to:

  • Earthy, muted colours
  • Solid colors
  • One to two outfits with a pattern
  • texture: lace, frills, movement
  • Boots, sandals and sneakers
  • Comfortable fits
  • Layers

Say No to:

  • Neon colors
  • Logos, words or characters on shirts
  • More than 1 busy pattern per every 3 people
  • Athletic runners and ballcaps
  • Too tight or too baggy fits
Seasonal clothing colour palette guide for photography sessions, showing coordinated outfit tones to wear for each season - Paula Jane Photography

It’s all in the details

Shoes:

Don’t forget that shoes are part of your outfit! Forego the runners and heels, and choose boots, sandals and sneakers that are both practical and matches the setting.

Layers and Textures

Layers like jackets, cardigans, and vests provide depth. Textures like knits, lace, denim and cords add interest. When used together, its a winning combination!

Accessories

Complete your look by adding hats, beanies, headbands, jewellery, scarves, belts, etc. It’s a great way to show off your personality, without taking over the focus.

Hair and Makeup

Get haircuts at least a week before, and keep makeup natural. Better yet, get your hair and makeup done professionally. The confidence boost and no-stress is worth it!

Hands and Nails

Your hands will be holding, hugging and gently stroking in many of your photos, so make sure everyone has clean and trimmed nails with no chipped nail polish.

My Sessions are All-Inclusive

One thing that makes my sessions unique is that I take care of all the styling for you so you don’t need to stress about what to wear for your family session. I have a small but beautifully curated client closet and access to fresh, handmade dresses within four weeks of request, so you’ll never have to stress about what to wear.

Because my style is very specific and I only photograph certain colours, being styled is part of the booking process. We’ll work together to create a look that feels like you, and you’ll have the chance to try on dresses at a Client Closet Appointment before I style the rest of the family.

It requires a little trust, but the end result will have your jaw dropping!!

Want to know more – Message me here for all the details

For Mums

I know it can be stressful thinking about what to wear for your styled family photography sessions in Brisbane. If you’re local, you’ll be able to try on gowns and even look through the kids’ clothing to help choose their outfits. From there, I’ll fine-tune everything using your styling questionnaire that is sent to you before your session.

If you’re not local, no worries—you can pick your top two dresses from my online wardrobe, or let me choose for you based on your questionnaire. I’ll also bring along several outfit options for all the girls and little boys in your family, so we’ve got plenty to work with.

Styled family photography sessions in Brisbane and Surrounds

When you book a session with me, the first thing I want you to know is that your “look” will still feel like you — just styled a little more polished for photos. From there, everything else is about keeping it raw, real, and true to your season of life. I’ll gently guide you into natural moments with your family while I capture it all — as unposed as possible. That means being okay with snuggling, laughing, or playing together while I document it. Knowing what to wear for your family session is the hardest part, once that’s done the rest is fun!

The next thing to expect is to be fussed over a bit, reminded how good you look, and then just relax into snuggles, laughter, and hanging out with your family in whatever way feels natural. Beforehand, I’ll get you to fill out a questionnaire so I can learn about you all — the way you connect, the things that matter to you — so I know how best to draw out those real moments. If you’re not the lovey-dovey type, that’s totally fine — your photos will be full of fun, laughter, and those easygoing connections. If you’re more of the emotional, touchy-feely kind, that’s wonderful too — we’ll lean into closeness, shut-eye hugs, and soaking up the moment together. My whole approach is to capture your family as you truly are, not run you through some cookie-cutter flow. The one thing you can always count on with me is that my sessions are real, relaxed, and lifestyle-driven — never stiff, never forced — and they’ll look different for every single family.

Not just a photoshoot but a whole experience

When you book with me, you’re not just getting a photoshoot – you’re stepping into a full experience where every detail is taken care of. I want you to feel cared for and truly special from start to finish. Many see these sessions as a luxury, and I treat them with that same level of intention and care.

It’s such an honour to be trusted with telling your family’s story, and I honestly can’t wait to meet you!

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