What to wear for your family photos

Featuring the Irving Family's Timeless Look

A group stands at a doorway with arched windows, surrounded by blooming purple flowers and greenery in a garden setting.
Happy mature couple in coordinated summer outfits sharing candid laughter together outdoors in a garden setting.
Family poses together on stone steps of historic building wearing coordinated light blue and khaki outfits.

"Just wow, even Better than i expected-Susan Irving"


When it comes to planning your South Georgia family photo session, choosing what to wear can feel like a big decision—because it is! Your wardrobe sets the tone for the entire session and helps bring out the warmth, connection, and charm of your family’s story. Let’s break it down using this beautiful session with the Irving family as a picture-perfect example.



Always Coordinate


The Irvings nailed this effortlessly with soft, complementary tones that reflect their unity without being too “matchy.” The men wore cool, coastal blues and neutrals—a nod to the laid-back Southern vibe. Mom’s cream dress with subtle floral details brought in just enough contrast and femininity, adding texture and color without stealing the show.


Pro Tip: Pick 2-3 main colors and sprinkle in soft patterns or textures.

Keep it light


South Georgia’s lush greenery, soft mossy oaks, and bright skies pair beautifully with light tones. Pale blues, whites, creams, and khakis all photograph beautifully against natural backdrops. They bounce light onto your face and give your photos that bright, airy, timeless look.


Avoid: Bright neons, large logos, or anything too busy that can distract from your family’s connection.

Dress for the season


Whether you're shooting under the oaks like this session or along the coastline, dress for comfort and practicality. Lightweight, breathable fabrics are perfect for our warm climate. The Irvings chose short sleeves and soft cottons—keeping everyone cool and camera-ready. A floral dress like Susan's? Yes, please! It brings in movement and softness, especially for a mama among her boys.

A young person in a light blue button-down shirt over a white t-shirt poses outdoors with a cross necklace.
A person wearing a light blue short-sleeve button-up shirt and khaki pants poses in front of a leafy garden setting.
A family in coordinating blue and white outfits walks together on a palm tree-lined path at sunset.
A couple shares tender moments on a palm tree-lined pathway in a romantic outdoor photoshoot.
A group in matching light blue shirts and khaki pants pose on white stone steps outside a historic building.
A group in coordinating pastel blue and beige outfits poses casually on a palm-lined path near a white mansion.
A happy senior couple embraces and laughs together in a romantic outdoor photoshoot.
A group walking together on a palm-lined path wearing coordinated light blue and white outfits.
A group in coordinating light blue and cream outfits poses on a manicured lawn with trees and flowers in the background.
A romantic couple in white and blue outfits embrace and share a tender moment in a lush garden setting.
A couple shares a loving moment outdoors in a garden setting, wearing light summer clothing in pastel colors.
Group in coordinating blue shirts and khaki pants standing on exterior white steps of a house with green shutters.
A couple walks together through a lush garden pathway with beautiful purple flowering borders.
Person in light blue shirt and beige pants poses outdoors in a park setting with trees and greenery in background.
Couple walking hand in hand through a lush garden setting on a sunny afternoon.
A cheerful group walks along a white gravel path lined with palm trees in matching light blue and khaki outfits.
Family standing together on outdoor porch steps for portrait against beige stone wall with purple flower garden.
A couple in casual summer attire stands together in a lush garden setting with green foliage in the background.
Four people in coordinating light blue and white outfits pose in front of an arched doorway with lavender flowers in foreground.
A couple in light summer attire share a tender moment together on a gravel path with greenery in the background.
Someone wearing a light blue shirt and khaki pants poses casually in an outdoor garden setting.
Two people wearing matching light blue shirts and khaki pants stand on stone steps in an outdoor setting.
A family strolls together on a palm-lined path wearing coordinated light blue and white outfits in a tropical garden setting.
A casual outdoor portrait featuring someone in a blue button-down shirt over a white t-shirt with khaki pants.
Person wearing a light blue shirt and khaki pants stands on a pathway lined with palm trees.
Family group poses on stone steps in an outdoor garden setting wearing coordinating light blue and white outfits.
A family wearing coordinated light blue and beige outfits poses together on grass with Spanish moss trees in background.

Final thoughts


At Magnolia Legacy Photography, we guide all our families with wardrobe planning because it matters. Your outfits help tell your story. When you wear colors that harmonize with your surroundings and reflect your personalities, your photos will shine with authenticity.


Need help picking outfits? I’m always happy to send color palette inspiration and a client guide full of helpful tips.


Let your wardrobe reflect your legacy—timeless, elegant, and full of heart. Just like you.