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I'm sure it's challenging to coordinate outfits for such a large group. We had our immediate family photos done last month and this was the advice our photographer shared with us. Hopefully some of it is helpful for you in choosing a color scheme. We went with blues, pinks, and greens for our pictures and I think they turned out well.

What to wear
I know a lot of people have a hard time coming up with good, solid wardrobe choices for family photography. It’s stressful sometimes, but it doesn’t have to be! Remember, the days of all white, all black, all khaki or all jeans is a thing of the past. Family picture time is a great time to embrace your individuality, your favorite looks, bold colors, prints and layers.

1. Steer clear of fluorescents. Fluorescent colors tend to color cast on faces, necks and hair. They’re harsh sometimes. I always recommend versions of primary colors. Yellow (mustard), red (maroon, brick), and blue (navy, royal).

2. To get the flow going with wardrobe for your family, start with one outfit that you really like. From there, build from it for everyone else.

3. Wear what you feel good in! Moms and dads, this tip is for you specifically. If you aren’t comfortable in what you’ve chosen for pictures, it will show. If you can’t find a dress you feel good in, but you rock a good pair of skinny jeans, do that.

4. Layer, layer layer! Layers add dimension and depth.cardigans, belts, statement necklaces, scarves, hats, blazers, etc.

5. Purchase clothes to fit. And fit well. I know we all have a hard time buying clothes for our kiddos that don’t leave a lot of room for growth, seeing as they do grow so fast. However, keep in mind that for pictures, too large of a polo shirt, saggy ill-fitting jeans or a jacket that’s falling off the shoulders looks sloppy.

6. Matching is out. Coordinating is in. And anything goes nowadays! I know your family is together. I am photographing you together! So, wearing the same colored shirt, pants, shoes, etc. looks a bit awkward. Coordinating color is what really brings wardrobe together. I usually choose two to three main colors of wardrobe, and maybe one accent pop of color. Also, mixing stripes with plaids and tweeds is okay! Expression is important. I want to see your personality through your wardrobe.

We did family pics a few years ago with my parents, all my siblings and their families. We went with blue, white, khaki, green and denim. I figured that most people look good in blue or green and everyone had something in their closet that fell in that color scheme. A couple people ended up with grey on as well and the pictures turned out really well.