How to Style Your Family Photo Session in Alexandria, Virginia, Fort Washington, Maryland and DMV Area

As a family photographer in Maryland, Alexandria, Virginia and the Washington DC area, I spend my time shooting sessions for families to have beautiful lasting images of family moments. Planning a family photoshoot can feel like a lot—between choosing outfits, picking the perfect location, and trying to tie everything together with a cohesive vibe, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. That’s where I love serving you and come in! Let's chat and get instant, personalized styling ideas that make planning your session fun and stress-free.

If you’re booking a family photo session in Alexandria, Virginia, Fort Washington, Maryland, or anywhere in the DMV area, here are my favorite ways and things to do when the objective is to style your session beautifully.

1. Start with Your Location & Setting

One of the first and most important details to share is where your photoshoot will take place. The location sets the tone—and your wardrobe should match the surroundings.

• Urban settings (Alexandria, DC murals, Fort Washington parks): Think stylish yet relaxed—denim layers, flowy dresses, boots, and earthy neutrals that pop against brick walls, murals, or waterfronts.

By knowing your location, it helps to define and we both can suggest outfit combinations, textures, and color palettes that will complement your backdrop instead of clashing with it.

2. Describe the Vibe You’re Going For

The overall feel of your session plays a big role in what you wear. Do you want your photos to look timeless and classic? Playful and colorful? Boho and relaxed?

Here are some examples of prompts and things we can talk about and think through:

• “We want a cozy fall vibe with sweaters and layers.”

• “Our style is minimal and neutral, but still polished.”

• “We love bright, playful colors that photograph well outdoors.”

The more descriptive you are, the better the suggestions will be!

3. Share Ages & Genders of Family Members

Styling outfits for a little one is very different from styling a teen or adult. When we know the ages and genders of everyone involved, it becomes easy to recommend pieces that work well together while keeping each family member comfortable.

For example:

• Parents: Neutral layers, textured knits, stylish but comfy shoes.

• Toddlers: Soft, movement-friendly fabrics

• Teens: Trend-forward but comfortable options they’ll actually want to wear.

This helps you build a cohesive look that feels natural—not overly coordinated or "matchy-matchy."

4. Ask for Color Palette Ideas

Struggling with color combinations? Think about what you like. We can suggest palettes that photograph beautifully based on your setting and season.

Things to think about and here are some prompts that can lead to clarity:

• Maybe a warm, neutral palette for a fall session in an urban DC area. The trees are still a little green but in midst of changing colors

• What colors photograph best against a waterfront or park setting in the DMV?

Having a clear palette in mind makes it so much easier to pull everything together—plus, it saves you from that last-minute outfit panic.

5. Don’t Forget Accessories & Layers

Details matter!

• Hats, scarves, or jewelry to add texture and interest

• Weather-appropriate layers—especially in transitional seasons

• Shoes/Sneakers that are both stylish and walkable

These little elements can really elevate your look and make your photo gallery feel cohesive and polished.

6. You're Your Own Personal Shopping Assistant

Tired of endless scrolling through online stores? Just take some time and think about what your look should be, what are your favorite looks and what you want to feel like. We can also consult with each other to find out what works for you.

Try:

• Maybe find a flowy neutral maxi dress that works for a fall family photo session.

• Style a laid-back, lazy luxury look for an outdoor family shoot. Sounds like a trend but looking put together, with a casually luxury vibe, will be a great for the camera.

• Finally think about what you have loved wearing over the years. What have you dressed your children in and gravitated to wearing over the years. You want comfort, while also having everyone look like their authentic self.

Final Thoughts

Styling your family photoshoot in Alexandria, Virginia, Fort Washington, Maryland or anywhere in the DMV doesn’t have to be overwhelming. You can craft a look that feels true to your family’s style while complementing your chosen location and season.

Want help bringing your vision to life? I’d love to help you plan a session that feels thoughtful, relaxed, and true to you. Whether you're ready to book or just want to chat styling ideas, feel free to reach out—let’s make photo magic together!

Sonia Greenaway Mickle is a senior photographer and portrait photographer based out of Fort Washington Maryland and Northern Virginia and serves the Washington, DC, Maryland, and Virginia area. Her goal is to bring out every senior’s personality in their images and she's dedicated to making sure that every senior session is unique and different so that you enjoy your images that reflect you and only you, know that you're special and valued, and experience a fun time. Sonia is now booking the Class of 2026 students for senior sessions, as well as family and portrait sessions.