What to Wear for Your Alaska Family Photo Session
One of the first questions I get as a Wasilla family photographer is, “What should we wear?” The truth is, the right wardrobe can take your photos from nice to truly stunning. Clothing impacts not only how you look, but how you feel — and confidence always shines through in your images.
Whether you’re planning a cozy winter shoot or chasing golden fireweed in the summer, here are my favorite wardrobe tips for your Alaska family photo session.
1. Choose Colors That Work with Alaska’s Landscape
Carhartt overalls for the Win!
Overalls ALWAYS look cute in photos! They’re simple but timeless!
Alaska’s scenery is breathtaking year-round, so let it inspire your palette. Soft earth tones, rich jewel shades, and muted neutrals photograph beautifully in our environment. Think sage green, deep rust, oatmeal, navy, or dusty rose. These shades will complement the wild beauty around us without overwhelming the scene.
Avoid: Neon colors, overly bold/busy patterns, or bright whites in snowy sessions (they can wash you out).
Check out my pinterest for some recommended color palates! https://www.pinterest.com/brooksandhayesphotography/_saved/
2. Coordinate, Don’t Match
Gone are the days of identical jeans-and-white-shirts. Instead, choose 2–3 main colors and mix them throughout your family’s outfits. For example:
Base colors: Cream, camel, and olive green
Accent: Burnt orange or mustard yellow
This gives a pulled-together look without feeling too “uniform.”
3. Add Layers & Texture
Alaska weather can change in a blink, and layers add both warmth and style. Knit sweaters, scarves, vests, and textured jackets photograph beautifully. For summer, lightweight cardigans or flowy kimonos can add depth to your images without bulk.
4. Dress for the Season
Fall: Warm tones, cozy sweaters, boots, and scarves.
Winter: Rich jewel tones, wool coats, fur-lined hoods, and gloves that match your palette.
Spring/Summer: Flowing dresses, light sweaters, and breathable fabrics to keep everyone comfortable.
5. Think About Movement
If we’re shooting outdoors in Wasilla or Palmer, your session may include walking, playing, or twirling. Long, flowy skirts and dresses create gorgeous motion in photos. Avoid overly stiff fabrics that restrict movement — natural moments happen when you can move freely.
Neutrals with a POP of color
This family did a great job choosing flattering neutral tones that kept the focus on them. The bright red had adds a touch of excitement to this image and the baby’s white jacket keeps him stylish and warm!
6. Don’t Forget Footwear
Choose shoes that work with your location. Leather boots, stylish sneakers, or sandals for summer can tie a look together. Skip overly bright athletic shoes unless they match your color palette.
7. Keep Comfort in Mind (Especially for Kids)
If kids feel itchy, cold, or restricted, it will show in the photos. Choose soft fabrics, breathable layers, and let them break in new shoes before the session. Happy, comfortable kids make for joyful portraits.
8. Plan Ahead
Lay out outfits a few days before your session to make sure everything works together. If you’re unsure, I’m always happy to offer personalized wardrobe tips as your Wasilla family photographer — you can even text me photos for feedback!
Final Thoughts on Palmer & Wasilla Family Session Style
Your clothing should feel like you, just a little more polished. By choosing colors and textures that work with our Alaska backdrop, your photos will feel timeless and natural. Remember — the goal is to create images you’ll love now and treasure decades from now.
If you’re ready to plan your session, let’s chat! I’d love to help with Alaska family photo outfits and make your next Palmer AK family session as beautiful and stress-free as possible.