1120 N. Hickory Farm Lane | Appleton, WI 54914 | 920.734.5328

KenMar Photography

Preparing for Your Family Portrait Session

KenMar specializes in large family groups, indoors and out with a huge variety of props, chairs, couches and different backdrops with flattering lighting and comfortable slice-of-life posing
KenMar specializes in large family groups, indoors and out with a huge variety of props, chairs, couches and different backdrops with flattering lighting and comfortable slice-of-life posing

A simple, stress‑free clothing guide for beautiful, timeless portraits.

1. Coordinate, don’t match

Outdoor family portrait with autumn trees and large stone, parents and two children
Photopark-located right here for conveinent family portrait with autumnal backdrop of changing trees and stone

Choose colors that work well together without being identical. Think in terms of a color palette, not matching outfits.

Good palettes include:

  • soft neutrals (cream, tan, gray, denim)
  • warm earth tones (rust, olive, mustard, brown)
  • cool tones (navy, charcoal, soft blue)

Avoid everyone wearing the same color — it flattens the image.

2. Start with one outfit and build around it

KenMar specializes in large family groups, indoors and out with a huge variety of props, chairs, couches and different backdrops with flattering lighting and comfortable slice-of-life posing
KenMar specializes in large family groups, indoors and out with a huge variety of props, chairs, couches and different backdrops with flattering lighting and comfortable slice-of-life posing

Pick one person’s outfit first — usually Mom’s — and coordinate everyone else around that. This keeps the group looking intentional without feeling forced.

3. Avoid loud patterns and logos

KenMar specializes in large family groups, indoors and out with a huge variety of props, chairs, couches and different backdrops with flattering lighting and comfortable slice-of-life posing
KenMar specializes in large family groups, indoors and out with a huge variety of props, chairs, couches and different backdrops with flattering lighting and comfortable slice-of-life posing

Busy patterns, neon colors, and big logos pull attention away from faces. Simple textures and solid colors photograph beautifully.

4. Think about your home

Family portrait in Appleton WI at KenMar Studio – professional photography for large family groups
KenMar Studio – trusted family photographer serving Appleton, Grand Chute, and the Fox Valley with over 50 years of experience

These portraits will likely hang on your walls. Choose colors that complement the rooms where the images will live.

5. Dress in layers and textures

KenMar specializes in large family groups, indoors and out with a huge variety of props, chairs, couches and different backdrops with flattering lighting and comfortable slice-of-life posing
KenMar specializes in large family groups, indoors and out with a huge variety of props, chairs, couches and different backdrops with flattering lighting and comfortable slice-of-life posing

Layers add depth and interest:

  • cardigans
  • scarves
  • vests
  • denim jackets
  • knit sweaters

Textures photograph better than flat fabrics.

6. Keep comfort in mind

KenMar specializes in large family groups, indoors and out with a huge variety of props, chairs, couches and different backdrops with flattering lighting and comfortable slice-of-life posing
KenMar specializes in large family groups, indoors and out with a huge variety of props, chairs, couches and different backdrops with flattering lighting and comfortable slice-of-life posing

If someone is uncomfortable, it will show. Choose clothing that fits well and allows natural movement.

7. Shoes matter more than people think

Semi-formal family group
Family of 7 in dresses and jacket, vest, and tie

Avoid athletic shoes, flip‑flops, or anything overly casual unless that’s the look you want. Neutral shoes or boots work best.

8. Grooming tips

Family portrait in Appleton WI at KenMar Studio – professional photography for large family groups
KenMar Studio – trusted family photographer serving Appleton, Grand Chute, and the Fox Valley with over 50 years of experience
  • Haircuts 3–5 days before the session
  • Light makeup for a natural look
  • Remove items from pockets
  • Clean nails (they show more than you think)

9. Bring backups

Kids spill. Adults spill. A backup shirt or sweater can save the day.

Family portrait in Appleton WI at KenMar Studio – professional photography for small family groups with pets
KenMar Studio – trusted family photographer serving Appleton, Grand Chute, and the Fox Valley with over 50 years of experience

10. Relax — the goal is connection, not perfection

Family portrait in Appleton WI at KenMar Studio – professional outdoor photography for multi-generational groups
KenMar Studio – trusted family photographer serving Appleton, Grand Chute, and the Fox Valley with over 50 years of experience

The best portraits come from natural interaction, not stiff posing. Wear clothing that lets you be yourselves.

What’s The Latest?

  • TOO HOT? Not at KenMar!

    TOO HOT? Not at KenMar!

    Another huge advantage of being photographed at KenMar: The heat of summer has temperatures in the 90s and humidity that takes your breath away. Imagine if you went somewhere else for your pictures — changing your outfits in your car, sweating it out at a public park for an hour or more, melting in the…

  • ⭐ Senior Portrait Sale — Limited‑Time Seasonal Savings

    ⭐ Senior Portrait Sale — Limited‑Time Seasonal Savings

    The Class of 2027 Senior Portrait Sale is here! Save big on session fees, get free bonuses, and enjoy Appleton’s best senior photo experience. Limited time!

  • 🎉 KenMar’s Private Senior Open House — You’re Invited!

    🎉 KenMar’s Private Senior Open House — You’re Invited!

    You’re invited to KenMar’s Senior Open House! Tour the studio, meet your photographer, see samples, and enjoy exclusive booking bonuses. Free to attend!