Planning a mountain family session in Crested Butte? You’re in one of the most stunning places in Colorado — golden light, endless peaks, summer wildflowers, and fall aspens that look like they’re glowing.
But the #1 question families ask me is:
“What should we wear for my mountain family session?”
Your outfits play a HUGE role in how your photos look and feel. The right colors and textures help you blend beautifully with the mountain scenery while still standing out as the stars of the image.
Here’s your complete guide to dressing your best for a mountain family session in Crested Butte.
1. Choose Colors That Compliment the Landscape
Crested Butte offers different color palettes depending on the season:
Summer (wildflowers)
Soft yellows
Sage green
Creams + warm neutrals
Blush tones
Muted blues
Fall (aspens + warm tones)
Rust
Camel
Warm browns
Burnt orange
Ivory + beige
Winter (snow + pines)
❄️ Deep green
Navy
Brown leather
Charcoal
Avoid neon or overly bright colors — they clash with natural scenery and can reflect onto skin.
2. Start With One Outfit & Build Around It
Pick one person’s outfit first (often mom’s dress) and coordinate the rest around the main colors.
Think coordinated, not matching.
✔ Soft patterns mixed with solids
✔ Different textures
✔ Varying shades of the same color family
✘ Avoid identical shirts or matching denim
3. Embrace Texture — It Photographs Beautifully
Texture adds dimension to your photos.
Great options include:
✨ Knit sweaters
✨ Flowy dresses
✨ Linen shirts
✨ Denim jackets
✨ Corduroy
✨ Wool layers
Avoid stiff fabrics — you want movement, comfort, and softness.
4. Keep Comfort Front and Center
Mountain sessions involve moving, sitting, walking, snuggling, and sometimes adventuring.
Especially for kids, choose:
✔ Stretchy fabrics
✔ Shoes they can run in
✔ Layers to stay warm
✔ Clothing that isn’t itchy
Happy kids = beautiful photos.
5. Layers Are Your Best Friend
Crested Butte weather is unpredictable.
Layers let you stay comfortable AND add variety to your photos.
Think:
Jackets
Neutral scarves
Hats
Sweaters
Cardigans
Layers look amazing in photos — and keep everyone happy.
6. Avoid Distracting Elements
These can pull attention away from your faces:
✘ Logos
✘ Black athletic wear
✘ Busy patterns
✘ Baseball caps
✘ Neon colors
Let your family’s connection be the focus.
Final Tip: Be Yourself
The best outfit is the one you feel confident in.
Your photos should reflect your family, not Pinterest perfection.
If you’d like, I offer complimentary styling guidance and outfit color boards for every session.
Ready for your family photos in Crested Butte?
Let’s plan something beautiful. Visit Crested Butte
rebecca@thirdeyephotographycolorado.com
thirdeyephotographycolorado.com
