“So… what are we going to wear?”
Let me tell you right away: there’s no perfect (and standard) dress code for a couples or family photoshoot in Rome, especially if we’re talking about a stroll through charming streets, squares, and breathtaking views. Every couple and every family has their own style, and that’s exactly how it should be.
But after years of photographing all kinds of people—from couples in love on vacation to the most lively family groups—there are some small (and not-so-small) mistakes I keep seeing over and over. And believe me, these are things you don’t even notice while getting ready, but in the photos, they stand out.
Nothing dramatic, of course. The photos I deliver are always polished and beautiful—I care too much about your memories to leave you with anything you don’t love—but there are those seemingly insignificant details that, if you avoid them from the start, will save you from saying, “Ah, if only I had thought of that earlier…”
In this article, I’ll walk you through these little wardrobe slip-ups, with some practical tips to avoid them without stressing out. Just a little extra attention is enough to get natural photos where you recognize yourself and feel completely at ease.
You’ll find tips that work for a couples photoshoot in Rome (my city), maybe romantic at the Colosseum or Villa Borghese, as well as for a family session, with kids running around and parents trying to get everyone in pose (and failing—thankfully!).
Ready? I promise it’s easier than it looks.
The First Real Rule: Feel Comfortable and Be Yourself!
When it comes to a couples or family photoshoot, the most important thing is definitely not wearing the latest trend or something that makes you look like someone else. Photos capture a part of your life, your connection with the people you love, and above all, your personality. If you dress the way you think you “should” to look good in photos, you risk not recognizing yourself in the images that last forever.
I recommend choosing clothes that make you feel like yourself, without trying to be someone else. A polished touch is fine, but never at the expense of your own style.
This is what truly makes the memory special. Trends come and go, but your authenticity is something no photo can ever betray. Of course, there are some general guidelines that, as a photographer, I’ve seen work well most of the time—but remember: these are not set-in-stone rules!
Follow these little tips if you want, but the only real rule is to be yourself and enjoy the experience.
So, relax, have fun, and let your personality shine in front of the camera.
Coordinated, But Not Like a Soccer Team!
When it comes to coordinating for a couples or family photoshoot, the idea is to find balance—not to look like everyone just came out of the same store. Dressing all the same, like “jeans and a white t-shirt,” might seem cute, but in the end, the effect can feel a bit… catalog-like. The photos risk looking like an ad for a clothing line, without that spark that makes a portrait truly unique.
On the other hand, if everyone wears whatever they like without thinking about the others at all, the result is visual chaos. Imagine a “rainbow family” with each person wearing colors that have nothing in common: it looks more like a birthday party than a photoshoot! (And don’t get me wrong—we love rainbow families; here we’re just talking about clothing!)
When you’re getting ready for a couple or family photoshoot, the first step isn’t picking the outfit — it’s deciding together what kind of vibes you want to bring into the photos. Romantic and elegant? Light and playful? More classic or more casual? Making this choice from the start gives direction and helps everyone feel more comfortable in front of the camera.
Coordinating doesn’t mean wearing the exact same colors or looking identical. Sure, thinking about a color palette (as I write in another article) is always useful, but the real point is to stay close in style. If one person chooses a very elegant look and the other goes for something too sporty, the result in the photos can feel a bit off. Instead, it’s enough to find a common thread — whether it’s a mood, a fabric, or just a similar level of formality. This way each outfit keeps its individuality, but together the photos look harmonious and timeless.
Choose harmonious colors and patterns, and coordinate the style as well. You don’t need to be dressed identically, but it’s important that the outfits complement each other. And if you’re wondering how to do this, don’t worry: I’ll be writing an article soon on how to coordinate outfits for the perfect photoshoot!
The Right Balance: Avoid Oversized or Too Tight Clothes
Oversized clothes can look really cute, especially if you’re a couple with a more street or casual style, but there’s a big difference between having a “relaxed” look and wearing something that’s too bulky. A piece that completely hides your figure risks making you disappear in photos, and when that happens, your natural beauty doesn’t shine as it should.
Then there’s the other side of the coin: clothes that are too tight. Think about it. Some people look amazing in certain fitted items, but others… well, others might feel uncomfortable. A classic example? A man’s shirt that’s too tight. One that squeezes around the chest and stomach, creating awkward wrinkles. I promise you, that type of outfit isn’t ideal for photos, because besides making you feel uneasy, it doesn’t do justice to your figure either.
The key is always balance: choose something that feels comfortable, fits well, and lets your natural shape show. That’s how a photo becomes truly beautiful and authentic.
And while we’re talking about balance, there’s another piece you’re better off leaving at home when taking photos around Rome… big winter coats and hoodies. Yep, those are a definite no-go.
Big Coats and Hoodies: A Disaster for Photos
Rome is stunning, even in winter, but we don’t want to go overboard with the “lost tourist in January” look! Super thick winter coats and hoodies don’t just cover you completely—they also hide all the beauty and connection you want to capture in your photos. Yes, they’re practical and warm, but honestly, they’re not ideal when you’re trying to create a romantic or family atmosphere.
Imagine a couple wanting to look intimate and affectionate, but with those big coats, nothing shows: no smiles, no intertwined hands, no visible bond between them. It’s hard to capture that warmth we’re aiming for if the jacket covers you from head to toe.
The solution? Go for lighter pieces, maybe a stylish coat or a thin sweater. That way, you’ll not only be more comfortable, but your photos will look much more fluid, natural, and free from that “potato sack” vibe.
And speaking of details, let’s see what to do (and what not to do) with accessories…
Accessories: Yes, But in Moderation (And the Smartwatch… No, Thanks!)
Accessories can be the finishing touch that makes your look special in a couples or family photoshoot. An elegant necklace, a cute hat, or a scarf that adds a pop of color can really make a difference, enhancing your outfit without stealing the spotlight.
But be careful—too many accessories can easily become a distraction. Another common mistake is accessories that don’t match the style of the shoot. An over-the-top hat or an extravagant bag might seem fun, but they often end up completely diverting attention. If you want to take a couple of playful, silly photos with those out-of-place accessories, sure, go for it. But for most of the shots, it’s better to choose something more in line with the overall style.
And then there’s the number-one enemy: the smartwatch. Seriously, when it’s off, its dark screen becomes a black band on your wrist that doesn’t look great, and when it’s on… well, it completely ruins the atmosphere. If you want to add something to your wrist, think of a nice bracelet (yes, even for men!) or a classic watch. These accessories are elegant and timeless, making you look even more charming in photos. Leave the smartwatch aside this time.
Total Black, Total White, and Total Everything: Not for Everyone!
Okay, let’s admit it: total black is a classic that many love, but for a couples or family photoshoot—especially outdoors—it’s not always the best choice. And yes, we know, black is elegant, but when it’s the only color you’re wearing, it doesn’t really help highlight shapes and details.
The same goes for total white: in a photo, it just creates a flat background, with no depth or contrast. Basically, you end up looking like a silhouette without volume! I’m not saying you should give up black or white—far from it! They’re both very stylish colors. But let’s avoid dressing entirely in one color from head to toe. A bit of contrast is always better!
The Third Wheel in Your Photos: Logos, Faces, and Writing That Steal the Spotlight
Okay, let’s be honest: flashy logos and prints with famous faces are not ideal for a couples or family photoshoot. Logos age terribly and, trust me, they end up making your photos look a bit dated.
But the worst part? Face prints! When we look at a photo, our attention naturally goes to faces, so imagine how distracting it is to have Al Pacino as Scarface (that t-shirt is iconic!) or, say, Taylor Swift? Basically, it’s like the faces on your shirts are photobombing every single shot of your session!
And let’s not forget t-shirts with obvious phrases that seem to scream, “Read me! Read me!” They’re fun, but they really draw too much attention.
You are the stars of your photoshoot, not the brand you’re wearing, not the faces of celebrities, and not the slogans—even if they’re funny!
Also, these elements don’t just show up in one photo—they appear in every single shot of your session! The solution? Opt for more subdued clothing, without faces stealing the scene, so your real faces—the ones that matter—can shine as the true stars.
Visible Underwear: Small Mistakes That Distract in Photos
Even if it seems like a minor detail, visible underwear in photos can really make a difference. You’ve put effort into choosing the right outfit, and then suddenly the bra straps peek out. Or worse, the undershirt shows just where it shouldn’t. And don’t even get me started on neon boxers popping out of pants that are too loose!
Unfortunately, these little details do get noticed. But no worries—a bit of extra attention is all it takes: choosing underwear that doesn’t intrude or adjusting straps before the photo is all you need. With a little care, we can avoid ruining the overall look of the shot.
And speaking of things that mess with aesthetics… let’s talk about bulky pockets!
Bulging Pockets? No Thanks! How to Avoid Them for More Elegant Photos
Bulging pockets, if you’re not careful, are a real disaster in photos! Wallets, phones, and keys sticking out of jackets and pants create those annoying lumps that are anything but aesthetic.
Let me tell you a story: once (well, many times) I had a couple who, between shots, kept passing things from one pocket to another—“Hand me the wallet! No, the phone!”—we spent more time rearranging objects than actually taking photos.
To avoid this, the advice is simple: bring a comfortable, spacious, and secure bag or backpack so you don’t have to constantly worry about where to put your stuff. One solution that lightens the load and improves the look of your photos, especially during outdoor sessions around the city. And finally, an evergreen tip…
The Most Important Thing? Be Yourself!
At the end of the day, what really matters isn’t the clothes—it’s how you feel and how you experience the moment. A photoshoot is a unique opportunity to freeze time, to capture the essence of a special moment, and nothing makes photos more beautiful than feeling comfortable and authentic.
Don’t worry too much about perfect details—the thing that makes photos truly unique is the emotions they convey.
Personally, after shooting hundreds of sessions, I can tell you that the real magic comes from having fun, sharing connection, and enjoying being together (and yes, also from the photographer’s skills!).
So don’t try to be someone else, and don’t follow trends that aren’t yours.
If you’re coming to Rome, enjoy the moment, let your personality shine, and if you want, I can help you capture those memories in a unique and natural way. Write to me and let me know if you have a trip planned—I’ll be happy to create photographic memories with you that will last a lifetime!