Paris Photo Session Style Guide

Planning your dream photo session in Paris and staring at your suitcase thinking, “What the heck do I wear?!” Well, great news, you’re in the right place! You’re on your way to choosing outfits that look incredible, feel like you, and make your photos pop against the charm of Paris.

Your Handy Paris Photo Session Style Guide

Forget chasing trends or trying to recreate outfits from a Pinterest board. I’ve created a guide to help you strike the perfect balance between looking incredible and feeling relaxed, natural, and ready to create unforgettable memories!

Wondering where to start? This guide has your back!
Whether you’re packing for yourself or coordinating a whole family crew, these tips will help you build cohesive outfits that make you feel fabulous. Think effortless charm without the fashion stress.

Bookmark this page. Screenshot it. Tape it to your suitcase!
Because with just a little prep (and a lot of personality), you’re going to look amazing.

1. Wear What Feels Great

When choosing what to wear, comfort is the secret sauce that helps your confidence skyrocket! If you’re constantly having to readjust your dress or wishing you wore different shoes, your discomfort will show in your pictures. But when you feel good in what you’re wearing, you shine! And that’s where the magic happens!!

The most natural pictures are made from natural movement. But when your outfit makes it hard to move, your photos will feel stiff and lifeless. My photography is all about connection, emotion, and movement. So go ahead, wear something you can feel comfortable moving in.

You’ll look your best when you feel your best, and that’s always the goal!

Style Tip: When in doubt, reach for soft, breathable fabrics that move with you. Think linen, cotton, or flowy materials that catch the breeze and add a little extra dimension to your photos. And remember, a well-fitting outfit will always outshine something trendy that doesn’t feel quite right. You want your clothes to feel like an extension of you, not something you have to “perform” in.

2. Keep It Comfy for the Kiddos

Kids are magic in motion. They’re wiggly, energetic, and full of wonder! So their outfits should let them stay that way! I want them to explore, play, and snuggle throughout their session without itchy fabrics or constraining layers holding them back. When children feel good in their clothes, their personalities shine, and that’s exactly what you want to highlight in these epic pictures!

In fact, some of my favorite moments happen when kids forget they’re being photographed altogether.

So here’s how to help them feel comfy, confident, and free to be their delightful selves:

• Let them help pick their outfit.
  Giving your child a say in what they wear helps them feel like they are part of the decision-making process. That sense of ownership can turn outfit battles into excitement.
• Soft, breathable fabrics win every time!
  Think cotton, linen, or anything that feels soft on their skin and allows movement.
• Skip the stiff and scratchy stuff.
  This isn’t the time for anything tight, fussy, or overly trendy. We want clothes that move with them, not against them.
• Shoes made for skipping, running, and exploring!
  Paris has plenty of charming cobblestones, so opt for shoes that they can comfortably walk in. Bonus points if they’re already broken in! No one wants blisters on vacation!!
• Layer up like a local.
  Early mornings are consistently colder, especially in spring and fall. Check the temperatures for sunrise, and dress for the weather we have, not the pictures you imagine! Layers keep everyone warm, happy, and photo-ready. 
• Familiar favorites are gold!
  If they’ve worn it before and love it, it’s a win. Familiar clothes mean fewer distractions and more genuine smiles.

Style Tip: Want to avoid meltdowns? Keep a backup outfit handy just in case! Pick out something your child loves that’s cozy and easy to change into, if needed. And don’t stress over perfection. Some of the sweetest photos come from unplanned moments!!

3. Choose Colors That Pop

Color can change the vibe of your photos. And in a city like Paris, where soft morning light kisses creamy stone buildings and dreamy gardens burst with seasonal color, your outfits’ palette really matters.

But here’s the good news, you don’t have to stick to a strict color scheme or match everyone in your group to look amazing in photos. The trick is choosing tones that pop in the best way without stealing the show.

Start with a palette you love, then let everyone bring their own style to the table. Aim for a look that feels cohesive, not like a uniform everyone’s wearing.

Make it all come together with these key tips:

• Lean into lighter, brighter tones. Soft neutrals like cream, oatmeal, taupe, dusty rose, sage, and muted blues photograph beautifully in Parisian light. They complement the city instead of competing with it.
• Avoid stark black or dark jewel tones on cloudy days. They tend to absorb the light and can look muddy or heavy in photos. If you love a darker look, consider layering it with a lighter scarf, jacket, or accessory.
• Add in pops of color! Jewel tones like emerald, burnt orange, mustard, or burgundy can really stand out, especially when paired with neutrals.
• Choose color harmony over matching. Think about everyone wearing colors in the same family or tone, but in slightly different ways. That way, each outfit is unique, but the group still looks amazing together.
• Prints are welcome, just keep them subtle. A soft floral, tiny check, or understated stripe adds texture and personality without being too busy.

Style Tip: Instead of asking “Does this match?” ask “Does this color bring the vibe I want?” Think in moods, not rules. Paris is full of soft stone and gentle light, so colors that feel fresh, earthy, or vibrant (without being loud) will always stand out in the best way.

4. Coordinate Without Matching

We’re aiming for cohesive, not cookie-cutter. You don’t need to all show up in matching white shirts and jeans (unless you’re doing a throwback 2000s shoot… which, honestly, could be fun ironically?). 

Instead, choose 2–3 complementary colors and spread them out across everyone’s outfits in a way that feels balanced and relaxed. This approach lets everyone express their own style while still looking like they belong in the same story.

Nail the coordination:

• Pick a palette, not a uniform. Think sage green, soft blush, and cream. Or navy, rust, and ivory. Use that palette as your guide and let everyone put their own spin on it.
• Vary the tones. Light and dark versions of the same color add dimension. One person in pale blue, another in deeper denim—it all works!
• Texture helps tie things together. Even if the colors don’t perfectly match, linen, denim, cotton, and knit create a natural harmony.
• Lay it all out. Snap a pic of your outfits side by side before packing. Seeing them together helps spot what might feel out of place or too matchy.

Style Tip: Want it to feel effortless? Anchor your group in one neutral (like tan, cream, or gray), then add two colors that pop against the Parisian palette. Everyone gets creative freedom within the guide rails, and then you have fun and creative coordinated outfits!

Check out my blog post for color palette inspo for your Paris photoshoot to find more ideas for every season or session type!

5. Add Layers and Texture

Layers aren’t just for unpredictable Paris weather (though they definitely come in handy for that). They’re your best friend when it comes to adding depth, movement, and interest to your photos.

From cozy knits to breezy linen, textures make your outfits look lived-in and lovely, not flat or forced. A simple outfit gets a major upgrade just by adding a textured element or layering piece.

Here’s how to make it work:

1. Start with the base. A dress, jumpsuit, or well-fitting shirt and trousers combo gives you a clean foundation.
2. Add a layer with personality. Think denim or leather jacket, a floaty kimono, a knit sweater over the shoulders, or a cozy scarf.
3. Play with it a little. Pair smooth with rough like linen with denim, cotton with cable knit, silk with suede. It creates contrast that the camera loves.
4. Bonus? Movement! Flowy cardigans, long skirts, even a lightweight trench coat. Any of these give your photos that dreamy, windswept feel.

Style Tip: If your outfit feels “fine but flat,” add a third piece. A jacket, scarf, or even a well-placed accessory can tie everything together and make your outfit feel photo-ready without looking overdone.

6. Skip Distracting Patterns

Patterns can totally work!! I promise, you don’t have to stick to solids! But not all prints play nice with the camera (or with Paris, for that matter). The key is to choose patterns that enhance your look, not ones that steal the spotlight.

Here’s what to steer clear of, and what to say oui to instead:

Avoid:

• Tiny stripes or tight checks that create a weird visual effect in camera (hello, moiré pattern!).
• Loud graphics or big logos that pull focus from your lovely faces.
• Multiple busy patterns in one group, it gets chaotic really quickly!

Embrace:

• Soft florals, delicate polka dots, classic gingham, subtle stripes or really, anything with a touch of Parisian charm!
• One print per group, with the rest of the crew in solids or textures to balance it out.
• Tone-on-tone prints or patterns in the same color family so you feel stylish without shouting.

Style Tip: Want to rock a pattern but you’re not sure if it’s too much? Try this test: hold the outfit up in a mirror, squint your eyes slightly, and see what grabs your attention first. If it’s the pattern, not your face, it might be worth switching it up!

7. Think Practical Shoes (This Isn’t a Carrie Bradshaw Moment)

Listen, we all love a cute heel. But unless you’re planning to be carried like royalty from the Louvre to Montmartre, it’s time to get real: you’re going to walk. Probably a lot. On cobblestones, uneven steps, and the occasional sneaky slope.

So let’s keep those ankles intact and your photos full of joy, not grimaces!

Stay stylish and comfortable with these tips:

• Opt for shoes you can stroll in. Think chic sneakers, ballet flats, low boots, block heels, or stylish sandals that are broken in and blister-free.
• Balance form and function. Leather boots or loafers? Yes. Wobbly stilettos or brand-new platforms? Save them for the dinner you’re taking an Uber to!
• Comfort = confidence. You’re going to feel more relaxed, more natural, and more “you” when you’re not secretly counting down the seconds until you can sit down.

Style Tip: Want something that feels dressy without the pain? Go for a pointed-toe flat, ankle boots, or sleek sneakers in a neutral tone. They elongate the leg and go with just about everything. Plus, they look amazing in movement shots!

8. Dress for the Weather

If Paris had a love language, it would be: mysteriously moody with a chance of rain. One minute it’s blue skies and golden light, the next it’s a gusty breeze and clouds rolling in like it’s auditioning for a French film.

The key? Dress like a local: stylish, layered, and ready for anything.

Some seasonal ideas to keep in mind:

• Winter: Bring coats, scarves, and gloves you actually want to be photographed in. That oversized parka you wear to walk the dog? Maybe not. But a wool coat layered with a cozy scarf? Très chic!
• Spring & Fall: Don’t be fooled by warm afternoons. These seasons can be cold in the morning and warm by midday. Layers are your best friend! Think trench coats, cardigans, or light jackets that can come on and off between shots, especially for the kiddos!
• Summer: The Paris heat can sneak up on you! Go for light, breathable fabrics like linen, cotton, or gauze, and avoid anything too clingy or dark. And yes, you can still layer lightly (think: sheer tops or open button-downs).

Style Tip: Always check the forecast the night before your shoot, not just the week of. Paris loves a surprise twist. And if it looks like rain, a stylish trench and a clear umbrella can turn drizzle into a total aesthetic moment!

9. Prep Your Hands, Nails, and Skin

You might be surprised how often hands sneak into your photos, like resting on a railing, holding a cup of coffee, tucking hair behind your ear, or interlaced with someone you love. And if you’re wearing sandals or anything with bare legs, check out your legs and feet as well!

Here’s how to prep without going full spa mode:

• Clean, moisturized hands and neat nails go a long way. No need for a fancy mani, just tidy and polished (or polish-free!) is perfect.
• If your legs or feet are showing, give them a little love, too. Lotion helps keep skin soft and glowing, especially after a long flight or dry hotel air.
• Drink plenty of water the day before your shoot. It sounds simple, but hydration makes a visible difference in how your skin looks and how you feel. Bonus: fewer puffy eyes, more energy for those cobblestone sprints.

Style Tip: I always keep a bit of lotion in my bag just in case someone realizes their hands or ankles are feeling dry. But a little prep the night before will help you arrive feeling photo-ready and radiant.

10. Be Yourself

At the end of the day, your photos should feel like you. Not like a magazine spread or a Pinterest pin! Just you as you’re exploring Paris, soaking in the magic, and making memories that you can’t stop reliving.

If you’re a sneakers-and-sundress kind of gal or a boots-and-blazer kind of guy? Go for it!
If your kiddo insists on wearing their favorite superhero socks? Cool, let’s make it work!
If you’re not into dressing up, no pressure! We’re not staging a fashion editorial, we’re telling your story!

You don’t need to reinvent yourself for the camera. You just need to show up as you are, because that’s who the people who love you want to see! And those are the moments you’ll love looking back on most!!

Style Tip: Trust your gut. If you put something on and instantly feel like dancing down the street with a croissant in hand? That’s the outfit! But if you’re fidgeting and tugging and second-guessing? Try again. Your comfort tells the truth.

Ready, Set, Style!

You don’t need a stylist or a suitcase full of new clothes to feel confident in front of the camera. You just need a few solid tips, some favorite pieces that make you feel like yourself, and a whole lot of heart.

Paris will bring the charm. I’ll bring the camera.
You just show up as you.