What Kids Should Wear for a Family Photo Shoot

Written By Zara Sarson

(That They'll Actually Love)

Kids wearing bold, colourful clothes playing on a swing at a city playground — lifestyle brand shoot with movement and joy.

Spoiler: it’s not stiff linen and tiny loafers.

If you’re planning a family photo shoot and you’re stuck wondering what your kids should wear — here’s my take, as someone who’s photographed hundreds of wild, wonderful, snack-fuelled small humans:Comfort comes first. Always.

Because no matter how gorgeous the outfit is, if your kid is tugging at their collar, too cold, too itchy or wearing something they hate? You’ll see it in every photo. The tension. The fidgeting. The vibe being slightly… off. But when they’re dressed in something they feel good in? That’s when their whole personality comes out. That’s when the session feels like play, not pressure. And that’s when we get the photos that feel like real life — messy, fun, and totally them.

Let them wear the colour. Seriously. Neutrals photograph beautifully, yes. But so does joy. So does that mismatched outfit they picked out themselves. So does the loud jumper with the tiger on it. I’m not saying throw styling out the window — I’m saying let it reflect your kid’s actual personality. Let them move. Let them live. Some of my favourite outfits have been the weirdest combos. And every time, the photos are magic — because they felt like themselves in them.

Three children wearing colourful streetwear and caps playing a clapping game on stone steps in natural light — creative kids fashion photography.

Comfortable Kids’ Outfits That Photograph Well

  • When choosing clothes for your child’s photo shoot, keep these in mind:

  • Soft, breathable fabrics (they’ll move better, and feel better) Clothes they can play in — we’ll be sitting, running, cuddling.

  • Colours that reflect their personality — not just what “matches” your couch.

  • Textures and layers photograph beautifully, especially outdoors

  • If they love it, and they feel comfy in it — it’s probably a great choice.

Child in colourful kids fashion posing on a rural road with suitcase and toys, part of a playful, creative children’s photo shoot.

Colourful Kids Clothing Brands I Love

Here are a few small Aussie kids brands I love — most of them run by passionate mums who get it. They make clothes that feel good on actual kids and look brilliant in photos.

Bobbie – soft, bright, and made for play

Sunday Siblings – bright, bold and oh so sweet

Goldie & Ace – an oldie but Goodie

Sam the Label – All your basics in the best colours

Ode and Thread – coolest vintage inspired outfits

Twin Collective – Everything Jeans you shall find here

Olive and the Captain – quirky, comfy, and full of personality

Gorman Playground – loud, joyful, and unapologetically fun

Banabae – Retro prints, ethical fabrics, and good vibes all round

These brands get it — that kids want to feel good in their skin and their clothes.

Young boy in colourful knit sweater playing at the beach with his mum during a candid family photo shoot at golden hour.

Final Thoughts: What to Wear for Family Photos with Kids

This shoot isn’t about perfection. It’s about connection. So let them wear something they love. Let them feel good. Let them be a little wild. Because the best family photos happen when no one’s trying too hard — they’re just being themselves. And if you want some help pulling it all together, styling tips, or a gentle yes/no on what you’re thinking? I’ve got you. That’s part of the process when you book with me.

Zara Sarson
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