Start With a Colour Palette, Not Matching Outfits

One of the most common mistakes families make is trying to match perfectly. Everyone in white shirts and jeans, or all wearing the exact same shade of blue. While it sounds coordinated, it can actually make photos feel a little stiff and costume-like.

Instead, I always suggest choosing a colour palette of two or three complementary tones and letting each person interpret that palette in their own way. For spring in Paris, some of my favourite palettes include:

• Soft neutrals: cream, sand, warm white, and dusty beige
• Muted pastels: sage green, powder blue, blush pink, and lavender
• Earthy tones: terracotta, rust, warm brown, and olive
• Classic Parisian: navy, white, and a soft stripe or two

When everyone is in the same tonal family, the photos feel cohesive and harmonious without looking like you all ordered from the same catalogue. It also allows each person’s personality to come through.

Think About Texture and Layers

Spring weather in Paris can be a little unpredictable. Mornings can be cool, afternoons warm up, and a light breeze is almost always present near the Seine or in the open gardens. This actually works beautifully for photos. Layers add visual interest and texture, and they also give you options during the shoot.

A light linen blazer, a delicate cardigan, a flowing scarf, or a denim jacket can all add dimension to your look. For children, a little knit sweater or a smocked dress with a cardigan photographs beautifully. Think about fabrics that move well and have a natural feel: linen, cotton, soft knits, and silk blends all photograph wonderfully in natural light.

Avoid overly shiny fabrics or anything with large, bold logos or graphics. These tend to distract the eye and pull attention away from the faces and emotions in the frame.

What Works Best for Each Family Member

For Mums

This is your moment to feel beautiful and comfortable. A flowy midi dress in a soft neutral or pastel is one of the most timeless choices for a spring photoshoot in Paris. Tailored trousers with a relaxed blouse also look elegant and effortless. Whatever you choose, make sure you feel like yourself. If you are not a dress person, do not force it just because it seems like the right thing to wear for photos.

For Dads

Slim or straight-leg trousers in a neutral tone paired with a simple linen shirt or a soft knit are always a great choice. A well-fitted jacket can elevate the look without feeling overdressed. Avoid very casual items like sports shorts or graphic tees, as these can feel out of place against the beauty of Paris in spring.

For Children

Children’s outfits are where you can have a little more fun. Smocked dresses, Peter Pan collars, soft linen sets, and classic cuts all photograph beautifully. Just make sure your little ones are comfortable. If they are tugging at their outfit or feel uncomfortable, it will show in the photos. Comfort equals happy kids, and happy kids make for the best images.

Colours to Avoid in Your Paris Photoshoot Outfits

A few colours and patterns are worth avoiding, especially if you are shooting in iconic Parisian locations:

• Neon or very bright colours: these can cast unflattering reflections on skin and feel jarring against soft spring backgrounds
• Busy patterns or large florals: these can overwhelm the image and make it hard to focus on faces
• All black: while chic, black can feel heavy in outdoor spring light and may not show up well in some settings

Location Matters for Your Outfit Choices

The location of your photoshoot should also influence what you wear. Shooting in a blooming garden like the Tuileries or Parc de Bagatelle? Soft pastels and flowy silhouettes will feel perfectly at home. Planning a shoot along the cobblestone streets of Montmartre or near the Eiffel Tower? You can try bolder colours.

If you have not yet decided where to shoot, take a look at my guide to the best locations for a family photoshoot in Paris to find the perfect backdrop for your family’s style.

A Few Final Tips Before Your Shoot

• Steam or iron your outfits the night before. Wrinkles are much more visible in photos than in real life.
• Bring a backup outfit for the children, just in case.
• Coordinate shoes too. Shoes are often visible in full-length shots and mismatched footwear can stand out.
• Keep jewellery simple and delicate. Statement pieces can sometimes distract from the natural warmth of family portraits.
• Bring layers. Spring weather (especially mornings) can be unpredictable and chilly in Paris
• If you’re worried about rain, don’t be. Just bring a few clear umbrellas and take a look at my rainy day in Paris blog post

Getting dressed for your photoshoot should feel exciting, not stressful. When your outfits feel good on your body and complement each other as a group, it gives you one less thing to think about on the day, and you can simply focus on enjoying the experience together.

If you are still unsure about what to wear, do not hesitate to reach out before your session. I love helping families put together their looks, and I am always happy to share personalised suggestions based on your chosen location and the season. You can also browse my family photography portfolio for inspiration and to get a feel for the styles and palettes that photograph beautifully in Paris.

I cannot wait to capture your family in this beautiful city this spring.