Here's a scenario I see often: the mama has spent weeks thinking through her look, found the perfect gown, planned her hair — and then two days before the session she messages me: "What on earth does my husband wear?"
First: you're not alone. Styling the other people in your photos is genuinely trickier than styling yourself, mostly because there's less obvious guidance out there. But it doesn't have to be complicated — and I promise it's a lot more flexible than you think.
The Golden Rule: Coordinated, Not Matching
Matching outfits — everyone in the exact same white shirts and jeans — had their moment, and for some families they still work beautifully. But for a maternity session, I generally find that coordinated reads as more sophisticated and more natural.
What coordinated means:
- Working within a shared colour palette (not exact colour)
- Similar formality levels (everyone dressed up, or everyone dressed down)
- Complementary tones that don't clash when you stand together
If you're in a soft sage gown, your partner in warm grey trousers and a cream linen shirt looks cohesive without being costume-y. If you're in a flowing ivory dress, a toddler in a white romper with caramel sandals carries the warmth without matching exactly.
Styling Your Partner
For a more formal look:
- Fitted trousers in neutral tones — grey, navy, khaki, warm beige
- A button-down or linen shirt, tucked in, in cream, soft white, chambray or dusty blue
- Clean, simple shoes (avoid sports shoes or anything very clunky)
- Skip ties and blazers unless the vibe is genuinely formal — they often feel overdressed
For a more relaxed look:
- Well-fitted dark jeans or chinos + a solid-colour fitted tee or Henley
- The key word is "fitted" — baggy t-shirts and shorts read very casual on camera
- Solid colours work much better than logos, graphics or sports branding
Colour tip: Whatever shade your partner wears, it should complement yours — not compete. If you're in a statement deep burgundy gown, a soft neutral (grey, cream, taupe) on your partner lets you be the focal point.
Styling Toddlers and Older Kids
Keep it simple. A little girl in a simple white or cream dress with a small bow is timeless. A toddler boy in neutral shorts, a clean white tee and sandals looks put-together without fuss.
Comfort is non-negotiable. If a kid is uncomfortable in stiff shoes or an itchy collar, it will show in the photos. Go with what they'll actually tolerate happily.
Match the palette, not the dress. A toddler in dusty rose and cream coordinates beautifully with a mama in a sage gown if both share warm, soft tones.
Avoid big logos, licensed characters or very busy prints. They pull the eye away from the connection between your family members.
Getting Everyone on the Same Page
My practical advice: pull out your own outfit, take a photo, and share it with your partner before the session. Then you can look at what you both have and find complementary pieces — no guessing, no "I thought you were wearing grey."
And if you're still not sure what to put your toddler in at 8pm the night before — text me. I've navigated this many times. We'll figure it out together.
FAQ
Does everyone in the photo need to coordinate?
Loosely, yes. Perfect matchy-matchy isn't necessary, but clashing styles or colours can look disjointed. Aim for similar formality and a shared colour palette.
What if my toddler refuses to change into the outfit I planned?
It happens! I've worked with enough toddlers to know that flexibility is key. We'll make the most of what they're in — often the "wrong" outfit produces the most real, authentic images anyway.
My partner hates getting dressed up. Is a casual look okay?
Absolutely. The style just needs to be intentional — neat, fitted, clean. A nice pair of jeans and a solid-colour button-down looks great on camera.
Can my kids be in only part of the session?
Yes — and that's often the ideal plan. We'll do some time with the whole family together, and some focused on just you.
My full prep guide (sent after booking) covers all the styling details. Ready to start? Check availability or message me on WhatsApp.
Fernanda Bautzer · Calgary maternity photographer · 231 Yorkville Road SW.