Helping my dad pack up his house unearthed some real family treasures. Among the gems was his Perly’s Road Map from 1985—a true relic of the pre-GPS era. And then there were his multiple sets of false teeth. Multiple sets. Like, really Dad, why are you like this?

But I digress.

What really sent me down memory lane were the old family photos we stumbled upon.

Photos from back in the day were…a lot. You know the ones—those awkward, overexposed gems from when cameras were as reliable as a toddler with a crayon. You’d wait days (or weeks!) for the film to develop, only to realize a thumb covered half the lens or that Mom managed to decapitate Dad entirely, probably by accident.

And then there were the staged family portraits. Fuzzy red or brown backgrounds, family members sitting stiffly in “family outfits” that didn’t match but clashed, and babies positioned at angles that gave their foreheads top billing

Today’s generation of kids will never know the struggle of having parents who thought it was a good idea to add some “visual interest” by telling us children to “touch the tree” in every Christmas photo.

Every. Single. Photo.

Touch the tree!

Touch the staircase!

Touch your brother’s shoulder!

Fast forward to today, and I can’t help but wonder if these awkward throwbacks explain why so many of us are now obsessed with creating the “perfect” family photo.

Hi, ok. It’s me — I’m “so many of us.”

 

It’s easy to get obsessed with creating the best family photo

Yes, I confess, I had a family photo problem.

I was that mom of toddlers who would book a family photo session months in advance and dedicating a lot of time to obsessing over colour palettes, outfit combos, and every Pinterest board promising the secret to photo perfection. Our camera quality has us thinking our job is to be professional photographers. The rest of the family indulged my obsession. I spent what can only be described as an unhealthy amount of time debating what would make the perfect outfit:

• Busy patterns vs. solid colours vs. just white T-shirts?
• Matching pajamas or the whole family in neutral colours?
• Does this outfit clash with the mantle stockings?

I’d make sure everything was just right, all in the name of creating the cutest holiday cards, capture the entire family or just the right look for a frame.

And still… we ended up here:

Honestly, coordinating the yearly family photo was a great way to drive myself a bit nutty.

But here’s what I’ve learned after all that: the photos that truly matter aren’t about perfection—they’re about personality. And in my kids’ case, that’s a lot of personality.

These days, we have more tools in our family photo toolkit to make sure pictures are fun, unique, and tell a story about us. Not to sound all “back in my day,” but as I prepare for this year’s photo session, I’ll admit—I’m a little jealous of what’s available now to make family photos truly stand out.

Here are a few ways I’ve found to skip the “touch the tree” energy and add flair and identity to family photos.

Before I get into it, in the name of transparency, please note that this post contains affiliate links and any purchase made through these links will result in a small commission for myself.

Preparing for the Family Photoshoot

Preparing for a family photoshoot can be a daunting task, but with some planning and preparation, you can ensure that your photos turn out amazing. Here are some tips to help you prepare for your family photoshoot:

• Decide on a Theme or Concept: Start by deciding on a theme or concept for your photoshoot. This will help you choose the right outfits and props. Whether you’re going for a casual, formal, or themed look, having a clear vision will make the planning process smoother.
• Choose a Convenient Location: Select a location that is convenient and comfortable for everyone. This could be a studio, a park, or even your own home. The key is to choose a place where everyone feels at ease and can be themselves.
• Schedule Wisely: Make sure to schedule the photoshoot at a time when everyone is well-rested and fed. That means making sure you get rest too! This will help ensure that everyone is in a good mood and ready to take great pics. Again and again. And probably again. Avoid scheduling during nap times or meal times to prevent crankiness.
• Plan Outfits in Advance: More advice below – but do plan your outfits in advance to avoid last-minute stress. Choose clothes that are comfortable and fit well. Avoid dominant patterns and neon or oddly bright colours. This will help create a cohesive and timeless look.
• Bring Props and Accessories: Bring props and accessories that fit with your theme or concept. This could include hats, scarves, and jewelry. These little touches can add personality and interest to your photos.

Choosing the Right Family Photographer

Choosing the right family photographer can be a difficult task, but it’s an important one. Here are some tips to help you choose the right photographer for your family photoshoot:

• Experience with Families: Look for a photographer who has experience working with families. This will ensure that they know how to work with children and adults of all ages, making the photoshoot a smooth and enjoyable experience.
• Check Their Portfolio: Check out the photographer’s portfolio to see their style and quality of work. Make sure that their style fits with what you’re looking for. Whether you prefer candid shots or posed family portraits, finding a photographer whose work you love is crucial. Bonus if their portfolio has Black families that resemble your level of melanin! This will tell you if they get the lighting, and the editing or otherwise you’ll want and make sure your skin tone comes to life just right.
• Read Reviews and Ask for Referrals: Read reviews and ask for referrals from friends and family. This will give you an idea of the photographer’s reputation and level of service. Personal recommendations can be invaluable in finding a reliable photographer.
• Discuss Pricing and Packages: Make sure to ask about the photographer’s pricing and packages. This will help you determine if they fit within your budget. Family portraits can be a not insignificant investment of time and money. Be clear about what is included in the package to avoid any surprises later on.
• Comfort Level: Finally, make sure to choose a photographer who you feel comfortable with. This will ensure that you and your family feel relaxed and at ease during the photoshoot. A good rapport with your photographer can make a big difference in the final results.

Tips for the Best Black Family Photo – Outfits and Beyond

Tip 1: Choose Outfits That Tell Your Family’s Story

Ok so I get it, just the right outfit might guarantee a timeless look for your family photo. And there’s no denying that the right mix of a lot of neutrals is a great choice fall family pictures! If you’re the type to obsess over details (aka you’re like me…) it’s a safe bet that you will still do all you can to make sure a bright blue shirt doesn’t outshine a green dress! But hear me out: your photos will be memorable whether you spend hours matching or not.

Instead of stressing over perfection lean into outfits that let your family’s personality shine. Simple and classic outfits like a black shirt or long sleeves can complement the overall aesthetic. Match with some black pants or blue jeans and a smiling face and these options are comfortable, stylish, and cute. Let the picture tell the world you are the Daughter of a Dope Black father.

This can be really stand out against a white background.

Or lean into a retro vibe!

Or hey, family tees are a low-stress option that still looks great – maybe create a custom T-shirt that spells out who your family is.

I promise thanks to the magic of digital photos you can’t do worse than your parents’ generation – and certainly not worse than mine.

Tip 2: Black Family Photos can Scream Holiday Cheer without saying a word:

If holiday pics are your thing, check out festive clothing options that don’t go full “ugly sweater party.” Matching-but-not-too-matchy pieces (without even a hint of emerald green or cherry red!) can create a polished, cozy vibe that’s perfect for the season.

And honestly Inspire Me Tees on Etsy offers the melanated family plenty of options regardless of what holiday you celebrate or statement you’re making.  From the Sorority Holiday Sweater to short-sleeved classics, you can find options that suit your family.

 

 

Tip 3: There is Always Room to Add Accessories That Reflect Your Identity

Family picture should be about your story. And luckily now there are vibrant, Afrocentric accessories with the kind of flavour and bold colours that can take a simple outfit and make it unforgettable.

Check out a shop on Etsy – Nasika Wax – we love their offerings that add just the right added flair. Many clients appreciate personalized assistance and style advice when selecting accessories for their family pictures.

These help add a pop of colour and ensure your family’s outfits showcase your ancestry.

Tip4: If You’re Going to Match, Go All In!

Now that my kids are older, I’ll admit, I sometimes still try to coordinate our outfits—old habits die hard! But I’ve learned it’s not about matching patterns or different colours—it’s about us. It’s all about figuring out the best way to just be ourselves. The spontaneous laughter, the candid glances, even the occasional grumpy face—they help a family picture tell the story of who we are as a family.

Wanna give a relaxed vibe? GO for it – this entire spa look might be for you. Raising Star Wars fanatics in your image? These matching T-shirts and Onesies can bring your inner fan to life in every size for the family. Or truly go all in with head-to-toe coordinated outfits that are definitely frame-worthy.

Matching outfits isn’t just about looking good; it’s about helping your family in the most playful, memorable way. A well-coordinated colour scheme can enhance the overall aesthetic and make your family photos more visually appealing.

Tip 5: Dress for the Weather

Dressing for the Canadian weather is an important part of preparing for your family photoshoot. Here are some tips for clothing that will help you dress for the weather:

• Layer Up for Outdoor Shoots: If you’re having an outdoor photoshoot, make sure to dress in layers. This will help you stay comfortable in changing weather conditions. Layers can be easily added or removed to adapt to the temperature.
• Stay Warm in the Cold: If it’s going to be cold, consider bringing some warm accessories such as hats, scarves, and gloves. These not only keep you warm but can also add a stylish touch to your outfits. Of course we would be remiss if we didn’t suggest these adorable satin-lined beanies.
• Keep Cool in the Heat: If it’s going to be hot, consider wearing light and breathable clothing. Fabrics like cotton and linen are great choices for staying cool and comfortable.
• Check the Weather Forecast: Make sure to check the weather forecast before your photoshoot and plan your clothing accordingly. Being prepared for the weather will help ensure that everyone is comfortable and happy during the shoot.

Family Photo Outfit Ideas

I mean just to go a bit deeper into the whole “outfit” thing! Choosing the right clothing, colour and look for your family photoshoot can be a challenge, but here are some ideas to get you started:

Neutral and Earthy Tones

Neutral and earthy tones are always a great choice for family photos. These colours are timeless and will never go out of style. Here are some ideas for neutral and earthy tone outfits:

• Earthy Tones for Outdoor Shoots: Earthy tones such as olive green, terracotta, and sandy beige are great for outdoor photoshoots. These colours blend beautifully with natural surroundings and create a warm, cohesive look.
• Neutral Tones for Indoor Shoots: Neutral tones such as white, black, and gray are great for indoor photoshoots. These colours provide a clean and classic look that works well with any background.
• Add Texture and Interest: Consider adding some texture and interest to your outfits with scarves, hats, and jewelry. These accessories can elevate a simple outfit and add a touch of personality.
• Mix and Match: Don’t be afraid to mix and match different neutral and earthy tones to create a unique and interesting look. Combining different shades and textures can add depth and dimension to your family photos.

By following these tips and ideas, you can ensure that your family photoshoot is a fun and memorable experience that results in beautiful, timeless photos.

The Most Important Tip? Take the Pictures Anyway.

Looking back at my childhood photos, I noticed something: my parents were rarely in them.  I mean, I was a cute kid and deserved to be the centre of attention, but I would have shared the spotlight!

And I’ll admit, I’ve been guilty of the same thing. Even now, the thought still crosses my mind: I’m not wearing makeup, my outfit isn’t flattering, or I’m just not feeling picture-ready. But honestly, I’m mostly over it. Because, let’s be real—if kids want me to look good in photos, they shouldn’t be so much work! I just got used to finding time to pee alone and now that’s been replaced with my promotion to mom-Uber.  Where’s the time to focus on myself?

More importantly, my kids have never cared if I was wearing a bonnet, if my twists were still in, if my blowout was a humidity-deranged mess, or if my braids were looking busted. They just wanted me in the photo. And that’s what really matters.

So, my advice? Even if you don’t get just the right outfit, or your colours are off – someone’s moody or whatever – take the picture, no matter what. I hope these tips help you feel more confident and prepared for your next family photoshoot.

Years from now, when your kids look back at these pics, they won’t care if you were camera-ready or if the sweaters matched. They’ll just be glad you were there, smiling, laughing, and making memories with them.

The Big Lesson?

The best family pictures are never the perfect ones. When I look at old albums the images that stand out are the ones when we’re laughing, I can see joy on my child’s face, or my toddler was wearing their trademark grumpy face or decided that was the perfect time to look the other way.

These days, we don’t have to rely on cheesy props or stiff instructions to create beautiful, engaging photos. Let your family’s unique vibe shine through. Add some fun accessories, coordinate outfits (if that’s your thing), and just be sure you reflect those genuine moments. The family pictures that stand out the most are those that capture genuine moments of joy and connection.

Family pictures should bring to life the moments and the joy of family —if you’re looking for more ways to bring that joy into your family life, check out our Giggles and Grit: Parenting with Unstoppable Black Joy. Whatever you do, take the pictures and enjoy your family photo shoot. If your family is anything like mine, the photos that don’t get framed make the best memories. Even if it means touching the tree…

The best photos are never the perfect ones. When I look at old albums, my favourite photos – the ones that stand out – are the ones when we’re laughing, I can see joy on my child’s face, or my toddler was wearing their trademark grumpy face or decided that was the perfect time to look the other way.