The outfit your child wears on picture day can make a big difference in how their photos turn out. Here's everything you need to know to help them look their best.

Colors That Photograph Well

Best Colors for Our Grey Backdrop

Our signature grey backdrop creates a clean, timeless look. These colors work beautifully against it:

  • Jewel tones — Deep blues, emerald greens, burgundy, plum
  • Earth tones — Rust, mustard, olive, camel
  • Classic neutrals — Navy, black, cream, soft grey
  • Rich colors — Teal, coral, deep red

Colors to Avoid

Some colors don't photograph as well:

  • Neon or fluorescent colors — Can cast unflattering color onto skin
  • Busy patterns — Can be distracting and dated
  • White — Can wash out against our light grey backdrop
  • Colors that match the backdrop — Grey or silver might blend in

Clothing Style Tips

Do Choose:

  • Solid colors or subtle patterns
  • Well-fitted clothing — not too tight, not too baggy
  • Layered looks — cardigans, jackets, or vests add visual interest
  • Clothes your child feels confident in
  • Something comfortable — they'll be sitting and moving

Avoid:

  • Logos and brand names — dates the photo
  • Graphic tees — text and images distract from your child's face
  • Sleeveless tops — bare arms can look awkward in close-up portraits
  • Very low or high necklines
  • Wrinkled clothing — iron or steam the night before

For Different Age Groups

Preschool & Elementary

  • Comfortable, play-friendly clothes work fine
  • Avoid anything too fancy that might restrict movement
  • Simple dresses, polo shirts, or soft sweaters work great
  • Skip ties for younger kids (they rarely sit right)

Middle School

  • Let your child have input on their outfit
  • Classic styles look better than trendy pieces
  • Solid colored button-downs or blouses photograph well
  • Avoid overly casual (old t-shirts) or overly formal

High School

  • Portraits are often used for senior announcements, so aim for timeless
  • Blazers, cardigans, or structured tops add polish
  • Consider what looks good in close-up headshots
  • Avoid anything too trendy that will look dated in a year

Hair and Grooming

  • Haircuts: Schedule 1-2 weeks before picture day, not the day before
  • Style simply: Avoid elaborate styles that might fall apart at school
  • Keep it off the face: Bangs should be trimmed or pinned back
  • Fresh face: Clean, moisturized skin photographs best

Accessories

Good Choices:

  • Simple jewelry (small earrings, subtle necklaces)
  • Glasses (if your child always wears them)
  • Hair accessories that are simple and secure

Skip:

  • Large statement jewelry
  • Sunglasses or hats
  • Anything that creates harsh shadows

The Night Before

  1. Choose the outfit together and try it on
  2. Check for stains, tears, or missing buttons
  3. Iron or steam out wrinkles
  4. Lay everything out including shoes and accessories
  5. Get a good night's sleep

Morning Of

  • Eat a good breakfast (but not anything messy)
  • Brush teeth and hair
  • Check for any last-minute issues
  • Give your child a confidence boost!

When They Forget Everything You Said

Let's be honest—sometimes kids show up to picture day in a stained Pokemon shirt with bedhead. And you know what? Those photos become family favorites too.

We'll capture your child's personality no matter what they're wearing. The most important thing is that they feel comfortable and happy.

Questions?

Want to know more about our picture day process? Check out How It Works or contact us with any questions.