If you have ever booked a photography session and immediately spiralled into “but what do I even wear?” — you are not alone. It is one of the most common questions I get as a family photographer in Barrie, and it is completely valid. What you wear has a huge impact on how your photos feel, and for a motherhood session especially, you want to look back on these images and feel like yourself.
The good news? There is no one right answer. Whether you want something soft and romantic or simple and casual, the most important thing is that you feel comfortable and confident. Here are some of my favourite guidelines, with real examples from past sessions to help you visualize it all.
Keep It Simple and Timeless
The most timeless motherhood images tend to have one thing in common: simple, unfussy clothing that does not compete with the connection between you and your child. When your outfits are clean and understated, the emotion in the image becomes the focus — and that is exactly what you want.
Think whites, creams, soft neutrals, and light blues. These tones photograph beautifully in a studio setting and have a classic, heirloom quality that will never feel dated.
These moms are a perfect example of this. They wore a simple white top and jeans, and the result is effortlessly beautiful. Sometimes the simplest choices are the most stunning.
Casual Can Be Just as Beautiful
You do not need to wear a gown to have a gorgeous session. Everyday clothing — done intentionally — photographs just as well as something more formal. If you are a jeans-and-a-nice-top kind of mama, lean into that. It is authentic to who you are, and that authenticity shows in your images.
Coordinate, Do Not Match
One of the most common styling mistakes is dressing everyone in identical outfits. Instead, aim to coordinate — choose a colour palette and work within it, but let each person wear something slightly different. This creates a cohesive look without feeling stiff or overly staged.
Erica and her two daughters are a beautiful example of this done right. Erica wore a soft floral dress while both girls wore white dresses with delicate detailing. The palette feels unified, but each look has its own personality. The result is joyful, editorial, and completely timeless.
Dresses and Skirts Photograph Beautifully
If you are open to wearing a dress or skirt, studio sessions are a wonderful opportunity to do it. Flowy fabrics, lace, and eyelet detailing all catch the light beautifully and add movement and texture to your images.
Bianca wore a stunning white eyelet off-the-shoulder dress, and her daughter wore a sweet white tulle dress. The coordinating white tones feel elegant and cohesive, and the different textures — eyelet versus tulle — add visual interest without clashing. These images are going to be heirlooms.
Quick Style Tips to Keep in Mind
When putting together your outfits, here are a few extra things to consider:
Avoid large logos or busy patterns. Bold graphics and loud prints can be distracting and tend to date a photo quickly. Stick to solids, subtle textures, or delicate prints.
Think about how your outfits feel, not just how they look. If you are tugging at your top or uncomfortable in your shoes, it will show. Wear something you feel good in.
Coordinate your children’s outfits to yours, not the other way around. Choose your outfit first, then build everyone else’s around it.
Bare feet photograph beautifully in the studio. Do not stress too much about shoes if you are planning to remove them.
Layers add dimension. Cardigans, jackets, and wraps can add depth to your images and give you options during the session.
Working With a Photographer Who Guides You
As a Barrie family photographer, part of my job is helping you feel prepared and confident before you ever step in front of the camera. When you book a motherhood session at my studio in Alliston, I send a detailed style guide ahead of your session so you have everything you need to make intentional choices that will photograph beautifully.
I also offer a client closet with a curated selection of pieces available to you on the day, so if you are feeling stuck, there are always options waiting for you.
If you are ready to book your motherhood session or have questions about what to wear, I would love to hear from you. Reach out here or visit the link in my bio to get started.
