Mother Daughter Photoshoot Outfit Guide: Teen, Tween & Adult Styles
- Geni Bean
- Oct 1
- 4 min read
Mother Daughter Photoshoot Outfits
So many Mother Daughter photoshoot outfit recommendations revolve around “Mommy and Me” looks, leaving out teens, tweens, and adult daughters. While I always love capturing moms with their littles, I’m especially passionate about creating space for moms with older daughters at the Pink Owl photo studio. After all, most parents stop capturing regular professional photos with their kids after age 8 or 9, and sometimes younger! I’m here for all the decades of mother-daughter bonding.
Because there is a lot of Mommy and Me inspo out there, I don’t see a lot of inspiration for Mother Daughter photoshoot outfits for older generations. Today I want to share a few of my favorite outfits and color combos from real clients I’ve photographed in the Pink Owl studio!
Basic Denim and White Outfit Combo
You can’t convince me denim doesn’t look great on everyone! Incorporating denim into your photoshoot look is such a timeless choice that looks great in any season and with any backdrop.
Denim and Black Outfit Combo
Another classic option is pairing denim with black. You can’t go wrong with a medium wash pair of jeans, a simple black top, and silver or gold accessories.
I love how Amber and Avery combined black, white, and denim into their mother daughter photoshoot outfits!
Coordinating Soft Neutrals
Another timeless Mother Daughter photoshoot outfit styling tip is working with a palette of soft neutrals. Soft, blushy neutrals and pastel tones also work with a majority of studio backdrop colors. They flatter skin tones and don’t create too much contrast that would wash you out or feel dated later on.
Dark Brown and Earth Tones
A color combo of dark browns and rich earth tones feels modern and elevated. This color palette is perfect for mothers with adult daughters who want a more sophisticated look for their photos.
I love how Kelly and Bella’s outfits complemented each other without feeling too matchy! This color combination pairs best with warm neutral photo backdrops like tan and olive green.
Monochromatic Outfits
Monochromatic outfits always make a bold statement. Make them even more interesting by choosing a loud or vibrant color, pairing it with a complementary backdrop, or wearing fun accessories.
All Black Outfits
Nothing is more timeless or classic than all black head to toe! Not only are all-black outfits easy to put together, but they’ll also never go out of style. You can pair all black with fun heels, accessories, and props to bring even more visual interest into your photos.
Choosing Outfits by Season
Even though we’re shooting in a climate-controlled photo studio, you can always plan your outfits based on the time of year to coincide with a special milestone or event. Here are some photoshoot outfit ideas that work for each season:
Spring: Soft pastels, floral prints, flowy dresses
Summer: Lightweight fabrics, whites, coastal blues, stripes
Fall: Earth tones, rust, dark green, layered textures
Winter: Jewel tones, knits, faux fur, velvet
Styling Tips For Mother Daughter Photoshoot Outfits
Coordinate, don’t match: Full on matching was cute when our kids were babies and toddlers, but if you’re planning a shoot with your teenage or adult daughter, try to plan looks that complement each other.
Accessorize: Simple gold or silver jewelry can elevate any look. Weaving in some heirloom pieces that get passed down by the women in your family can be such a special touch as well.
Incorporate symbolic elements: Incorporating mom’s or grandma’s favorite color, jewelry passed down through generations, or a scarf, brooch, or item that holds meaning are special ways to set your photos apart.
Don’t be afraid to get glam: You’re on camera, after all! All of my in-studio photoshoot experiences come with a hair and makeup styling option. When it comes to makeup and studio lighting, it's important to get it right.
Bring multiple outfit options: I always recommend planning 3-4 different looks for versatility in style and color. The outfit you were originally “meh” about might turn out to be your favorite look on camera!
Consider movement & posing: Outfits that allow for movement create more dynamic portraits. Think: long skirts or dresses that twirl, light fabrics that catch a breeze or fan, or outfits with shape (avoid anything too boxy or stiff).
When was the last time you were in a photo with your daughter—not just behind the camera, but truly present, seen, and celebrated?
At Pink Owl Photography, I don’t just take pictures; I help tell your story. Whether you're celebrating a milestone, documenting your bond, or simply want to press pause and be in the moment with the woman who shaped your world (or the one you're raising!), your portraits will become part of your family's legacy.
Every Mother Daughter session includes:
A wardrobe styling service (because we know, this part alone can be paralyzing)
Full access to our curated photo shoot studio wardrobe
Professional hair & makeup options
A custom-designed, fully guided experience in my Durham photo studio
💌 Ready to plan your legacy session? Inquire here or book your free consultation today!
