What to Wear to a Family Photoshoot in Devon?

Choosing what to wear for your family photoshoot can feel surprisingly stressful. Especially if you’re already thinking “nothing fits me” or “I’m going to look awkward.”

I promise you, it doesn’t need to be complicated or perfect.

This Blog is here to help you feel confident, inspired, and clear on what works, what to avoid, and where to start, so you can arrive at your family photoshoot in Devon feeling relaxed and ready to enjoy the experience.

If you’d like a step-by-step visual guide to coordinating your family’s outfits, check out my Family Photoshoot Outfit Guide! It’s full of ideas, colour palettes, and practical tips to make choosing outfits easier.

If you’re not sure where to start shopping, stores like H&M, Next, and M&S are brilliant for comfortable, neutral basics for both parents and children. Pieces that photograph beautifully without feeling too “try hard”.

First things first: comfort is key

Before we talk colours or outfits, the most important thing I want you to remember is this:

Comfort always comes first.

If something doesn’t fit properly, feels too tight, needs constant adjusting, or just doesn’t feel like you, it will show! More importantly, it will stop you from relaxing and enjoying time with your family.

I always say:

• Choose clothes you can move in

• Sit down, walk, cuddle your children, and feel at ease

• Coordinate as a family — don’t match exactly

Where to Start When Choosing Outfits for a Family Photoshoot?

If you’re staring at your wardrobe and feeling completely overwhelmed, don’t worry! This is the part where most parents freeze! My go-to advice is simple:

Start with one person Outfit .

Usually, that’s your child's because once their outfit feels right, everything else falls into place much more easily.

Here’s how to think about it:

• Maybe your daughter has a pair of dungarees you absolutely love, and you can picture her in them on the beach or in the countryside. Start there.

  
  

• Or your son only feels comfortable in certain clothes. Maybe a soft jumper or his favourite jeans. Begin with what makes him feel good, because when children are comfortable, it shows in the photos.

For children’s outfits, I often see lovely pieces from JoJo Maman Bébé .Especially dungarees, soft knits, and comfortable layers that little ones can move freely in.

Once you’ve picked that first outfit, focus on it until you truly love it.

Think about how it looks in soft light, if it’s comfortable to move in, and if it suits the location you’ve chosen. Don’t worry about matching the rest of the family yet. We’ll build around this anchor piece.

Build the Rest of the Family Around It

From there, start adding the rest of the family. Look at colours, textures, and layers that coordinate without being identical. It’s amazing how starting with just one outfit makes the whole process feel so much more manageable. Suddenly, it’s not about dressing everyone perfectly, it’s about creating a cohesive, relaxed look.

Top tip: Let your child try their outfit on before the shoot day. Check that it fits well, that they can move freely, and that it’s something they actually like wearing. This tiny step saves so much stress and ensures your photos capture natural, joyful moments.

What Colours Work Best for a Family Photoshoot in Devon?

Most of my family photoshoots take place in the Devon countryside or on the beach. Where the light is soft, often overcast, and naturally flattering. The right colours really make a difference! They can make your photos feel timeless, calm, and effortlessly beautiful. Certain shades just click in these settings, helping your family stand out without the outfits overpowering the moment.

Neutral and Earthy Tones That Photograph Beautifully:

• Neutral tones — and I don’t just mean black and white! Think creams, beiges, and soft browns. These colours feel gentle, natural, and photograph beautifully against Devon’s landscapes.

• Denim — soft blues and worn-in jeans always look great and give a relaxed, classic vibe.

• Earthy tones — warm, muted greens, soft terracotta, and natural browns add depth and a timeless feel.

• Soft pastels — pale pinks, gentle blues, muted lilacs, and soft yellows can bring just a hint of colour without being overwhelming.

These shades work together beautifully because they’re soft on the eye, complement natural light, and don’t distract from your family. When you choose these tones, it’s your faces and your connections that shine, not bold patterns or bright colours.

If you’re shopping specifically for these softer colours, M&S is a great option for creams, beiges, and timeless basics that work beautifully in natural light.

if you love a hint of colour but want to keep things soft, Boden has some lovely muted options, especially for children.

If you’re looking for examples of how to mix and match these colours for the whole family, check out my Family Photoshoot Outfit Guide.

What to Avoid Wearing for Family Photos?

There are a few things I always gently steer families away from because they can be distracting, feel heavy in photos, or just don’t photograph as beautifully as softer, simpler outfits.

The goal is for your family to look coordinated, not identical, and to feel comfortable. Both of which show in the photos.

Here’s what I usually suggest avoiding:

• Bright or neon colours – These can really pop in photos… but not in a good way. They tend to draw attention away from the faces and emotions you actually want to capture.

  
  

• Very dark colours like black or navy – Dark colours can feel heavy and often hide the lovely details in clothing, such as textures, layers, or subtle patterns. In soft Devon light, they can also create harsh contrasts that don’t photograph well.

  
  

• Logos, characters, or big graphics – Your child’s favourite superhero t-shirt might be adorable in real life, but large logos or character prints can be distracting and take the focus off your family’s connection.

  
  

• Busy patterns – Stripes, polka dots, or large floral prints can clash, especially if more than one family member is wearing them. They can make photos feel visually “noisy” and draw attention away from your faces.

  
  

• Matching outfits – Coordinating colours and tones is beautiful, but everyone wearing the exact same outfit can look forced and dated.

  
  

• Anything uncomfortable – If someone feels restricted, itchy, or fussy in their outfit, it shows in their body language. Comfort is just as important as style!

A simple way to think about it: your clothing should complement the location and your family, not compete with it.

Are Jeans, Dresses and Layers Good for Family Photos?

There are a few wardrobe staples that I absolutely adore for family photos, especially in Devon’s beautiful countryside or on the beach. When styled thoughtfully, these pieces photograph beautifully and add personality without distracting from your family’s connection.

• Jeans: Yes, jeans are a total winner, but skip super skinny styles! They can feel tight, uncomfortable, and sometimes look stiff in photos. Looser fits, straight-leg, or relaxed denim photographs much more naturally, and they’re great for kids who love to move, run, or play. Pair them with soft knits or layered tops for a timeless look.

  
  

  Next is a brilliant option for relaxed denim, cardigans, and comfortable outfits that work for the whole family.

  
  

• Dresses: Dresses are always stunning, especially when they move naturally. Think soft fabrics that sway in the breeze. Linen, cotton, or lightweight knits. Flowy dresses look gorgeous in photos, and layering with a cardigan or denim jacket can add texture and versatility.

  
  

  you’ll often find beautiful flowy dresses and textured layers in soft tones at Zara, which photograph so well outdoors.

  
  

• Layers & textures: Layers aren’t just practical, they add depth and interest to your photos. Knits, cardigans, jackets, scarves, or linen shirts create subtle visual variety without being distracting. Mixing textures (like a chunky knit with soft linen) makes photos feel dynamic and cozy. Layers are especially useful in Devon, where the weather can change quickly and evenings can feel cooler. You can add or remove a layer to keep everyone comfortable, which means more relaxed, natural photos.

  
  

When you combine jeans, dresses, and thoughtfully layered textures, you get a timeless, effortless look that feels comfortable, coordinated, and true to your family. This approach also allows children to move freely, so their natural personalities shine through.

Shoes matter (yes, they’ll be seen!)

Shoes might feel like a small detail, but they often appear in your photos, especially in beach and countryside sessions. Choosing the right footwear can make a big difference in comfort, style, and the overall look of your images.

Here’s some Devon-specific advice:

• Bare feet on the beach: While it might seem natural and fun, going completely barefoot isn’t always the best idea. Sharp shells, little rocks, and yes the occasional dog mess can quickly ruin the mood (and the photos!).

  
  

• Neutral footwear: Shoes that blend with your outfit and the surroundings work best. Think neutral trainers, ankle boots, soft sandals, or barefoot-style shoes that look natural and simple. These allow movement and don’t distract from the overall look of your photos.

  
  

• Comfort is key: This is especially important for little ones! Shoes that are too tight, stiff, or slippery will make children fidget, trip, or complain, which shows in the photos. Choose footwear that lets them run, explore, and feel at ease so their personalities can shine naturally.

  
  

A simple tip: try shoes on before the shoot to make sure they fit, are comfortable, and suit the outfit. When everyone feels good on their feet, the whole session flows more smoothly, and your photos will feel relaxed and effortless.

What If You Hate How You Look in Photos?

I hear this all the time from parents, and I completely understand. It’s normal to feel nervous about how you’ll appear in photos. But here’s something really important to remember:

When you look back at photos of your own childhood, do you notice your mum’s weight or your dad’s hairline? Probably not. And your children won’t either.

What they will notice and remember is:

• How close you were to each other, the hugs, the laughter, the little moments of connection

• How safe and loved they felt in your presence

• The memories you created together. The walks, the giggles, the playful chaos that makes your family unique

  
  

Your children aren’t looking at how you look! They’re looking at you, your presence, and the love they feel. When you relax, laugh, and enjoy the session, it shows in the photos. Those are the moments they’ll treasure forever.

So instead of worrying about outfits, angles, or “flaws,” focus on being together, having fun, and making memories. That’s what makes photographs truly timeless.

Still feeling unsure? That’s okay.

Choosing outfits can feel awkward, especially if you’re used to just throwing clothes on and not really thinking about them.

If that’s you:

• Start with your child

• Choose something comfortable

• Stick to neutral or soft colours

• Avoid logos, brights, and matching outfits

  
  

Honestly? You really can’t go wrong.

Need Help Choosing What to Wear for Your Family Photoshoot in Devon?

Remember, your outfits don’t need to be perfect! Comfort and confidence matter more than anything. If you’re still unsure about colours, layers, or coordinating everyone’s look, I’m always happy to help.

You can send me photos for advice or check my outfit guide.

And once your outfits are sorted, the final step is making sure your session is booked at the best possible time. Read my post on the best time to book a family photoshoot in Devon to make sure your photoshoot day is as magical as it can be.

Where I Love to Shop for Family Photoshoot Outfits

If you’d like a few reliable places to browse, these are some of my go-to shops for comfortable, neutral family outfits:

H&M, Next, M&S, JoJo Maman Bébé, Zara, La Redoute, and Hush.

All of these are great for soft colours, natural fabrics, and pieces that allow movement ! Perfect for relaxed family photos.