Yes, You Need an Outfit Too!
Let’s be honest; most dads aren’t counting down the days to photo sessions. And that’s okay! But when the time comes to step in front of the camera, what you wear does matter and (surprise!) it doesn’t have to be stiff, formal, or uncomfortable.
Whether you're the laid-back jeans guy, the polished button-up type, or somewhere in between, this post is here to make choosing your outfit easy, painless, and dare I say... stylish.
Stick With Neutrals + Earth Tones
Start with a base of timeless, photo-friendly colours.
Winning colour combos:
- Rust, olive, cream, and mustard
- Navy, blush, grey, and soft denim
- Dusty blue or sage green, tan, and ivory
- Warm browns, oatmeal, and forest green
What to avoid:
- Bold graphics and colours - These can be distracting and clash with the rest of the families soft tones
- Loud prints
- Large logos or writing - We want the focus to be on the love of your family not what's written on your shirt
Go for “Put-Together Comfort”
You don’t need a three-piece suit. You do need to look like you didn’t roll out of bed five minutes ago.
Winning combos:
- A fitted henley or button-up with chinos
- A lightweight sweater layered over a collared shirt
- A structured tee or polo with dark jeans
- A blazer or "shacket" (shirt-jacket) for fall photos
Bonus: Roll up your sleeves for a relaxed but intentional look. Instant cool-dad energy.
Fit > Fashion
No matter how nice the shirt, if it doesn’t fit well, it won’t photograph well. Baggy shirts, oversized jeans, or too-tight polos can all throw off your look.
Aim for pieces that skim the body, not too loose, not too tight. Try your outfit on beforehand and do a few “dad moves” (lifting a kid, squatting, giving piggybacks) to make sure it works in action.
Skip the Ball Cap (Sorry)
Unless we’re doing a lifestyle session that calls for your everyday look, leave the baseball cap at home. Same goes for sunglasses, bulky wallets, and cell phones in pockets. Clean and simple wins every time. I know you can't exactly leave the car keys at home so I will have a bag available to keep all these items safe during your session.
Don’t Forget Shoes
The “good sneakers” rule applies here. If they’re super sporty, dirty, or neon, swap them out. Opt for:
- Clean leather runners
- Casual boots (like Blundstones or Chelsea boots)
- Neutral slip-ons or loafers
Yes, footwear does show in photos; especially if we’re doing standing or walking shots!
Where to Shop (Dude-Approved & Photo-Ready)
Budget-Friendly:
- Old Navy – Great basics and chinos in every colour
- Gap – Classic styles that pair well with everything
- H&M Men – Trendy without trying too hard
Mid-Range:
- RW&CO – Polished, casual styles perfect for dads
- Simons – Tons of variety and great layering pieces
- Banana Republic – Clean and timeless (especially for sweaters and henleys)
Canadian & Cool:
- Frank and Oak – Sustainable, stylish, and dad-friendly
- Mark’s – Casual rugged looks, especially for outdoor sessions
- Indochino (for dressier looks) – Custom options if you're leveling up
Final Tip: Coordinate, Don’t Compete
Let your outfit work with your family’s palette. If your partner is wearing a soft blush dress and the kids are in neutrals, your navy shirt and tan pants will look amazing beside them.
And no pressure, but you might just be the one everyone’s matching to. 👀
TL;DR: You Don’t Have to Overthink It
Just show up in something clean, comfortable, and coordinated, and you’re winning. No need to stress, just let your genuine connection and dad jokes steal the show.
Need help choosing between two shirts? Text your photographer (hi, it’s me—I love this stuff).
Let’s make you look like the relaxed, cool, "yeah-I’ve-got-this" dad you are.
Keep shining!
xo
Sara
