Not sure what to wear for your Crested Butte family photo session? Discover outfit tips, seasonal color palettes, and style inspiration for stunning mountain portraits.
What to Wear for Family Photo Session in the Crested Butte Mountains
One of the first questions that comes up when planning your family photo session, especially in the mountains of crested Butte is — “What should we wear?”
The right clothing can make a huge difference in how your images look and feel. It’s about creating a look that feels timeless, natural, and cohesive with the mountain scenery.
Keep everyone comfortable and confident with my guide to choosing outfits that photograph beautifully.
1. Start with the Location & Season for Your Family Photo Session
Crested Butte offers incredible variety — from wildflower fields in summer to golden aspens in fall and snow-capped peaks in winter.
Each season has its own color palette:
- Summer: soft greens, earthy neutrals, and pops of color from the wildflowers.
- Fall: rich tones like mustard, rust, cream, deep green, and navy.
- Winter: cozy layers in soft tones — cream, gray, denim, camel, or burgundy look amazing in the snow.
✨ Tip: Try to complement the landscape, not compete with it. The mountains should enhance your look, not overpower it.
2. Coordinate, Don’t Match for Your Family Photo Session
Gone are the days of everyone wearing the same thing! Choose 2–3 main tones and then mix textures and patterns within that palette making your outfit a story.
Example:
- Mom in a flowy cream dress
- Dad in olive green with a chambray shirt
- Kids in soft browns or muted florals
✨ This creates balance and variety while still looking cohesive.
3. Choose Movement-Friendly Outfits
The best family photos happen when you’re relaxed, laughing, and moving — not stiff and posed.
So choose clothes that move with you:
- Flowy dresses, soft knits, and comfortable layers work beautifully.
- Avoid anything too tight, shiny, or stiff.
✨ If you can twirl, snuggle, or toss your kids in the air without worrying about your clothes, you’ve picked the right outfit.
4. Layer for Texture and Warmth
Mountain weather can change in a heartbeat.
Layers are always a smart choice to keep you warm and comfortable.
Try adding:
- Denim or leather jackets
- Cozy cardigans or shawls
- Vests or scarves for extra texture
✨ Layers add depth and visual interest — especially in cooler months.
5. Mind the Little Details
- Keep accessories simple
- Avoid large logos or neon colors — they draw attention away from your faces.
- Pick something practical for your footwear for outdoor dirt terrain (boots, closed-toe flats, etc.)..
✨ Neutral footwear always looks clean and timeless.
6. Make Sure Everyone Feels Themselves
Confidence shows in photos. If your child hates scratchy sweaters or you feel uncomfortable in something too dressy — skip it.
The goal is for everyone to feel relaxed and authentic.
✨ When you’re comfortable, you look natural — and that’s what creates the best images.
7. Plan Ahead (and Try It On!)
Lay out all the outfits together and do a quick test photo in natural light.
You’ll instantly see what colors and patterns work best together — and if anyone needs a backup piece.
❤️ Final Thoughts
Your family photos in Crested Butte should reflect who you are — adventurous, joyful, and connected. With a little planning, the right outfits will highlight your family’s personality and complement the beauty of the mountains around you.
Feel free to ask for help too!
📸 Ready to plan your Crested Butte family session?
Let’s capture your family’s story among Colorado’s most breathtaking views.
👉 Contact Third Eye Photography to start planning!
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