Planning what to wear for a family photoshoot is just as important as choosing the right Chattanooga family photographer. The right outfits can elevate your photos, bringing out the personalities and connections within your family while ensuring your photos look timeless. Here are some style tips to help you create beautiful, cohesive, and comfortable looks that will make your family photos in Chattanooga truly memorable.

1. Coordinate Colors, Don’t Match Perfectly

While it’s tempting to have everyone in the same color, family photos look best when colors are coordinated, not identical. Choose a color palette of 2-3 main colors with complementary shades, like soft blues, creams, and grays, or warm autumn tones of burgundy, mustard, and brown. Each family member can wear one of these shades to create a visually appealing, balanced look.

2. Dress for the Season and Location

Consider the time of year and your photoshoot location. Chattanooga offers beautiful outdoor settings year-round, from the lush greens of spring and summer to the warm hues of fall. If you’re shooting in the fall, cozy layers like scarves, cardigans, and boots can add texture and dimension to your photos. In warmer months, light fabrics and natural colors that blend with Chattanooga’s landscapes work wonderfully.

3. Think About Comfort and Movement

Photoshoots involve a lot of movement—especially if you’re including young children! Choose outfits that allow everyone to move freely. Fitted clothes generally photograph better than overly loose ones, but avoid anything restrictive that could make kids uncomfortable. If you’re shooting with a Chattanooga family photographer outdoors, consider practical footwear and bring layers for changing weather.

4. Incorporate Textures and Layers

Adding textures—like denim, knits, lace, or leather—brings visual interest and depth to photos. Layers like jackets, vests, or shawls are ideal for adding dimension without being too bold. Each layer adds character without overpowering the overall aesthetic, creating a polished, put-together look perfect for family photos in Chattanooga.

5. Add a Few Accessories for Personality

Accessories, such as hats, scarves, or jewelry, can add personality and make your family photos unique. However, keep accessories minimal to avoid distraction. For example, a simple necklace, bracelet, or hair bow for children can bring a lovely detail without overwhelming the photo.

6. Consider the Background of Your Photos

If your family photo location includes a cityscape or scenic nature location in Chattanooga, think about how your outfits will look against the backdrop. Neutrals and muted colors complement nature scenes, while brighter colors work well in urban settings. Chattanooga’s blend of mountains, rivers, and downtown areas provides varied settings, so think about what will stand out beautifully in each spot.

7. Choose Clothes You’ll Love for Years to Come

Remember that these photos will last a lifetime. Try to pick timeless styles over trends that might feel dated later. Choosing classic patterns like plaid or polka dots instead of trendy logos or graphics ensures your photos remain fresh and beautiful over the years.

8. Prepare and Test Outfits in Advance

A few days before the photoshoot, lay out everyone’s outfits together to see how they look as a group. Test out the clothes for fit and comfort—especially for young children—to avoid last-minute surprises. Taking this extra step can prevent potential wardrobe malfunctions and ensure everyone is happy with their look.

Conclusion

Your family photoshoot in Chattanooga should be a memorable, enjoyable experience. Choosing coordinated, comfortable, and timeless outfits will let your family’s unique bond shine through while highlighting the scenic beauty of Chattanooga. Remember, the key is to feel like yourselves while looking your best, so you can treasure these photos for years to come.

Ready to book your session? TriStar Visuals, one of the top Chattanooga family photographers, can help capture the perfect moments with your loved ones. Contact us today to discuss locations, outfit tips, and everything you need for stunning family photos in Chattanooga!