The Motherhood Style Guide

This page may contain affiliate links. I could earn a small commission if you purchase through a link, at no extra cost to you. I only recommend companies I have used and trust.

The Motherhood Style Guide

Family photo sessions are about so much more than smiling at the camera—they’re about preserving the moments you’ll want to hold onto forever. But let’s be honest, the prep can sometimes feel overwhelming (especially for moms). As a Pittsburgh family photographer, I step in as your stylist too—helping you choose outfits, coordinate the whole family, and even pull from my studio wardrobe. My goal is to simplify the process so you can actually enjoy these moments and feel excited for your session again.

The Style Guide


Styling a family for a photo session can feel overwhelming. Finding that balance—coordinated but not too matchy—while dressing everyone from toddlers to adults is no small task. As someone who loves both photographing and styling families, I’ve created this guide to help. Together, we’ll create a look that feels effortless and truly reflects your family’s personality and connection. So, let's go back to the basics....


If you've been following me for any amount of time, you know that my photography styles leans toward the warm, light, and airy feel. To best achieve this look, it's helpful if families focus on 1-3 neutral, earthy colors. While adding another layer of mixing solids, patterns, and textures. Below I've outlined some complimentary color palettes so you can see what your style most leans towards.

The Goal

Not matching. Not “Pinterest perfect.”

Just cohesive + timeless + flattering so your photos look elevated every time.

So, let's get started...

Step 1: Pick Mom's Anchor Outfit

This is the piece you build around. Best anchor options:

  • a flowy dress
  • a neutral sweater set
  • a linen jumpsuit
  • wide leg pants + fitted top a long skirt + tucked knit

Your #1 rule: If mom looks amazing, the whole family looks amazing.

Step 2: Choose 2 Neutrals

Neutrals are what make a gallery look effortless and stunning and don't take away from the photos.

Go-to neutrals:

  • cream
  • oatmeal
  • taupe
  • warm gray
  • camel
  • muted denim
  • soft brown
  • olive (yes it counts!)

Step 3: Add 1 Accent Color

This is where the magic happens.

Accent colors that always photograph well:

  • dusty rose
  • sage
  • forest green
  • dusty blue

Step 4: Add Texture and Layers

Texture is what makes it look high-end.and effortless. Best textures:

  • knits
  • linen
  • gauze
  • denim
  • sheer
  • corduroy
  • suede boots
  • ribbed sets
A minimalist style guide showing soft color palettes with muted beige, green, blue and pink circular swatches arranged elegantly.

Where To Start Looking

Before you type anything into your search bar, be sure to check out my client closet HERE. Pieces from the client closet will be reserved on a first come, first served basis. Everything will only be able to be reserved by one mama to avoid the situation of an accident happening and preventing later session from wearing them. A couple of things before you start browsing through the client closet:

  • If you are wanting to try on anything from the client closet, let me know and we can arrange for an outfit try-on before the motherhood event!
  • If you are wanting to order something from my client closet "wish list", please let me know prior to ordering to be sure no one else is ordering the dress in the same size and I can give you any discount codes I might have.
  • Once you choose a piece from the closet, I'll message you more details for run-of-show when it comes to acquiring your dress for your session.

BEST online PLACES FOR MOMS TO SHOP FOR FAMILY photo OUTFITS


Moms, always choose your dress first. The upcoming portrait session will be the perfect opportunity to show off your spring style! Wear something classic and timeless. My favorites to photograph are light, solid, textured, or dainty florals. Here are some of my favorite shops for mom’s dresses for spring:

BEST online PLACES FOR kids TO SHOP FOR FAMILY PICTURE OUTFITS


Moms, always choose your dress first. The upcoming portrait session will be the perfect opportunity to show off your spring style! Wear something classic and timeless. My favorites to photograph are light, solid, textured, or dainty florals. Here are some of my favorite shops for mom’s dresses for spring:

THE DO'S AND DON'TS OF STYLING for your session

  • Ditch the smart watches and hair ties around the wrist.
  • Don't stress about the shoes.. honestly, barefoot for all brings a sense of closeness and intimacy to your photos. Otherwise a pair of sandals or slides are always a winner.
  • Which brings me to my next point, paint those toes (and hands if you're a nail color wearer) a neutral color.
  • Leave the neon and bright primaries behind.. love some brightness when it calls for it, but bright colors reflect onto your skin, especially on the face.
  • Try to avoid clothes with large logos or graphics.. they can distract from the photo and pull attention away from faces.
  • If dresses aren't your thing, no big deal. This all about leaning into YOUR style! A good pair of boyfriend or barrel jeans or white denim with a flowy top or bodysuit will always be a classic look.
Woman wearing light blue button down shirt with light wash denim jeans in casual summer outfit.

Feel free to send me any questions you might have!


Cannot wait to see you there~

xo Laura

Follow me on Instagram

@lauraremboldphotography