10 Tips for Dressing Kids
10 tips for dressing your kids for a photoshoot.
Have you ever wanted updated portraits of your children but found yourself thinking:
“I don’t have anything nice for them to wear…”
You’re definitely not alone.
This is one of the most common worries parents share before a photography session and here’s the truth every parent needs to hear:
Kids do not need fancy outfits for beautiful photos.
Most of the time, simple outfits photograph better than anything expensive or overly styled.
Here are my 10 practical tips to help you dress your children easily, stress-free, and beautifully for your next photoshoot.
1. Keep It Simple
Simple, neutral pieces will always photograph better than busy or trendy outfits.
The focus should be your child not their clothes.
2. Shop Your Wardrobe First
You likely already have perfect options at home. Look for:
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Simple knit jumpers
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Earthy, muted colours
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Linen dresses
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Jeans, tights, overalls
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Plain tees or long sleeves
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Simple boots or even bare feet
These are timeless, comfortable, and photograph beautifully outdoors.
3. Choose Earthy & Neutral Tones
Colours like cream, brown, rust, sage, soft blue, beige and oatmeal blend beautifully with nature and create warm, cohesive portraits.
Avoid neon, bright primary colours, and large logos — they tend to distract and cast colour onto the skin.
4. Add Texture, Not Patterns
Textures such as knits, linen, lace, or cotton add richness to the photo without stealing attention.
Patterned clothing, especially busy prints, can become distracting or date the image quickly.
5. Fit Matters More Than Fashion
Clothes that fit properly not too loose, not too tight photograph best.
Oversized jumpers or super baggy clothing can swallow a child’s frame and hide their natural shape.
A well-fitted outfit instantly looks cleaner and more polished.
6. Comfort = Natural Expressions
When kids are comfortable, they relax, move freely, and smile naturally.
Choose clothing they can run, bend, and play in. Avoid anything itchy, stiff, or restrictive.
7. Use Layers to Add Depth
Layering creates beautiful dimension in portraits. Try:
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Knit cardigan over a simple dress
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Jumper over linen overalls
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Tights under a skirt
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A jacket or vest in cooler weather
Layers also give you options to change looks quickly.
8. Keep Hair Simple
A quick brush, tidy ponytail, loose curls, or natural tousled hair all work beautifully.
Try not to over-style — simple looks more authentic.
A matching bow, hat, or bonnet can also add a sweet touch if it fits your style.
9. Bring a Backup Outfit
Kids are kids spills happen.
Having one spare outfit (in similar tones) keeps the session running smoothly and stress-free.
10. Don’t Overthink It
Beautiful portraits don’t come from perfect clothing.
They come from connection, expression, and the authentic little personality your child brings to the session.
The clothes are just there to support that.
Want More Styling Inspiration?
If you’d love extra guidance choosing outfits for your next session, I’m always happy to help. I can come and help you look through your wardrobes and help you lay out possible outfit options that work together
You can:
📩 Enquire through my website or join my mailing list for seasonal sessions & styling guides
📸 Follow me on
YouTube for behind-the scenes videos & styling tips
Creating beautiful portraits should feel simple and enjoyable and truly, it all starts with the clothes your kids already own and if you’re in doubt I may just have something you can borrow.
If you’d like to see the options available, I made a little guide. You can check it out here.
To see more of my Gelong children portraits check them out here.
https://jkfineartphotography.com.au/portfolio/geelong-childrens-photography/