5 Photo-Ready Outfit Tips for Back-to-School Portraits

Because This Season Deserves to Be Remembered Beautifully

You’ve been meaning to do this.

The school year is starting, your calendar’s already packed—and yet, there’s this quiet urgency in your heart.
Your kids are growing up. Fast. And you're not about to miss the chance to hold on to this season before it slips past you.

Maybe it’s your son’s last year of elementary school.

Maybe your daughter’s starting high school and the childhood in her eyes is just beginning to shift.

Maybe this is their senior year and sooner than you realize they'll be moving out to begin their life as an adult.
Or maybe you’re just ready to start actually putting family portraits on the walls of your forever home.

Whatever your reason, here you are. You want this year to feel right—not rushed. A portrait is a perfect place to start so you'll always remember this season of your life.

Let’s start with what to wear. Because clothing does more than flatter. It helps shape what you and I, as your photographer, are going to create and that will hang on the walls of your home.

Before clients stand in front of my lens, one of the first things they ask is:

"What should we wear?"

The truth is: what you wear shouldn’t steal the spotlight—but it does shape how the you and your portraits will feel.

Whether you're planning a full family session or celebrating a senior’s milestone year, here are five outfit tips to ensure your portraits feel elevated, intentional, and impactful.

1. Start with a Soft Color Palette

Think warm neutrals, soft blues, rich greens, gentle blush, or earthy taupes. These photograph beautifully and complement a range of home décor. Instead of everyone matching, choose tones that harmonize. Your portraits will feel more sophisticated—and more you. 

2. Avoid Logos, Graphics, and Loud Prints

We want the focus on your family's expressions, not their shirts. Skip trendy branding, cartoon tees, or super-busy patterns. Texture is your friend—woven knits, linen, cotton, and layering pieces add depth without distraction.

3. Dress for the Portrait You’ll Frame

Close your eyes. Picture that final portrait, framed above your fireplace or along your entry way wall. What are you wearing in that image? That’s the direction to move in. Avoid anything overly trendy or too casual unless it aligns with the artwork’s final home. 

4. Shoes Matter—Even When You Think They Won’t

Yes, I may crop in. But in full-length images or playful candids, your shoes will show. Clean, neutral, or timeless footwear goes a long way. For toddlers and young kids, barefoot is always a charming option (and Arizona-appropriate if we're photographing on grass or when it's not 100 or more degrees).

5. Let Personality Shine—but Curated

We’ll absolutely make space for their favorite cowboy boots or a beloved accessory. But think of these portraits as the visual legacy of your family—not a snapshot of today’s trend. We can photograph both during your session if you like—one classic look, one more personal and playful.

The truth is: you don’t need more photos. You need meaningful ones. Images that hold a season. That belong on your walls. That become part of your family’s story.

If you're ready for a portrait experience that feels effortless and guided—where I help you choose outfits, plan your session, and create heirloom artwork for your home—let’s talk.

August and September bookings are happening now. Let’s make this easy and beautiful for you. It all starts with a phone call to 480.257.6757. Let’s talk and see what we can create together!

Because your family deserves more than just another digital file. Let’s turn this season into something permanent. Call now to schedule your free in-person consultation.