Family Portrait Style Guide. Soulo Photography |San Francisco Bay Area Based Photographer

Choosing a Color Palette

Start with a Cohesive Palette
I recommend selecting one or two complementary colors and balancing them with neutral shades. For example, if you choose soft blues and creams, mix in a beige or light gray to keep the look cohesive. Stick with either warm or cool tones to ensure harmony across all outfits.

Neutrals and Earth Tones
Neutrals like beige, cream, and soft grays work well for a classic, timeless look. Earth tones—such as sage green, terracotta, and warm browns—are particularly beautiful for outdoor settings.

Avoid Bright, Bold Colors
Bright colors can be distracting and might not age as well over time. Instead, opt for muted or pastel shades to create a soft, natural look.

Family Portrait Style Guide. Soulo Photography |San Francisco Bay Area Based Photographer
Family Portrait Style Guide. Soulo Photography |San Francisco Bay Area Based Photographer
Family Portrait Style Guide. Soulo Photography |San Francisco Bay Area Based Photographer

Incorporate Texture and Patterns

Textures like knit sweaters, linen, and ruffles can add dimension to your photos without overwhelming the scene. Layering textures gives your family’s outfits a high-end feel, especially when you’re working with a simple color palette.

Keep Patterns Subtle

Small, delicate patterns photograph better than large, bold designs. If you want to incorporate patterns, consider something minimal, like tiny floral prints or stripes, to add visual interest without distraction.


Family Portrait Style Guide. Soulo Photography |San Francisco Bay Area Based Photographer

Coordinating Outfits

Start with the Parents
Begin by choosing outfits for the parents and build from there. Once you have the anchor outfits, it’s easier to coordinate the children’s clothing to match the overall look

Dress Kids Like Little Adults
Opt for classic pieces for children rather than casual playwear. Button-down shirts, dresses, or rompers give a more polished look. Adding details like suspenders or hair bows can add a sweet touch.

Seasonal Outfits

Fall Family Photos
For fall sessions, earth tones like mustard yellow, rust, and sage green complement the season’s warm colors. Chunky sweaters, cardigans, and scarves are great for layering and add a cozy vibe.

Winter Family Photos
To stay warm without looking bulky, layer base pieces like thermal tops or leggings underneath your outfits. Stick with colors that complement a winter landscape, like navy, forest green, or cream, and bring warm coats for between shots.

Spring Family Photos
Light pastels and floral patterns are perfect for spring. Soft pinks, blues, and yellows bring out the season’s cheerful mood. Consider bringing a light jacket or cardigan for layering, as spring weather can be unpredictable.

Summer Family Photos
Keep fabrics breathable to stay comfortable in warmer weather. Linen and cotton are ideal for summer sessions, and colors like light blue, cream, and soft beige give a relaxed, beachy feel. If you’re at the beach, consider wearing part of your hair up to manage wind.

Family Portrait Style Guide. Soulo Photography |San Francisco Bay Area Based Photographer

Location and Display Considerations

Think about your photoshoot location when choosing colors. Soft blues and whites look beautiful on the beach, while deeper colors like green and brown are ideal for a wooded or park setting. For urban sessions, add a pop of color or keep it sleek with neutrals.


Consider Your Home’s Decor
If you plan to display your portraits, consider the colors in your home when choosing outfits. Warmer tones might suit a cozy, rustic home, while cool neutrals work well in modern, minimalist spaces.

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