Some families naturally radiate elegance, and the one in this Los Angeles family portrait session is no exception! We’ve had the privilege of photographing them since their twin boys were newborns, and now, as a family of five, their latest session was a masterclass in refined style and effortless sophistication. Watching families grow over the years is one of the most meaningful things we get to do at The Pod Photography, and this session beautifully captured not just their deep connection but also their impeccable fashion sense. And the best part? We’re going to walk you through exactly how you can achieve this polished, high-end look for your own family portraits.
The Evolution of Family Portrait Styling
The outdated trend of matching outfits—identical sweaters or single-color themes—has evolved into a more refined approach: coordinated yet individual styling. Inspired by high fashion and art curation, this method achieves harmony through intentional choices rather than uniformity.
Even the twin boys embraced this, each in distinct outfits that reflected their personalities while complementing the family’s warm palette of rich browns, tans, and blacks. Their wardrobe felt effortlessly polished, balancing individuality with a sophisticated, editorial-quality look.
Why This Works: The Art of Coordinated Styling
Designers, stylists, and art curators know that true cohesion isn’t about uniformity. Their pillars of styling are harmony and coordination, paired with thoughtful composition. And the same principles used to curate a gallery or runway apply when crafting a luxury family portrait! By balancing colors, textures, and silhouettes, you too can create a look that feels polished yet natural. Here are three key elements to achieving this trending and elevated aesthetic:
- Select a Curated Color Story: Instead of choosing one color for everyone, start with a refined palette of two to three complementary hues. Neutrals (think: beige, deep brown, camel, and black) create a sophisticated base, while jewel tones could add richness. The key is to ensure that the shades work harmoniously together, much like an expertly curated gallery wall. But don’t worry, you don’t have to be an expert to make this work. Here’s a great into to color theory to get you started!
- Play with Textures and Layers: Mixing fabrics and silhouettes adds depth and dimension, preventing the portrait from looking flat. In this session, layering was used masterfully—Dad’s solid colored button down contrasted cleanly against a Glen Plaid structured blazer, while the boys incorporated both cozy knit and tailored elements. These subtle contrasts elevate the overall composition, giving it a polished, high-end feel.
- Allow for Individual Expression: A great portrait reflects personality. Here, the parents’ sleek and structured outfits provided an anchor, while each child’s attire incorporated a personal touch—a soft sweater, a statement coat, playful shirt ruffles. This balance ensured that the family looked coordinated but never overly styled.
Nail This Look for Your Own Family Photos
If you want to bring this sophisticated approach to your next family portrait, start with a thoughtfully chosen color palette that complements your skin tones. Consider a color analysis consultation to determine which shades best suit your family’s undertones. Stick to timeless, well-tailored pieces and avoid overly bold prints or distracting logos that can take focus away from the connection and warmth within the portrait.
At The Pod Photography, we guide Los Angeles families through every step of the process, ensuring that wardrobe, lighting, and posing all come together seamlessly to create portraits that feel natural, timeless, and worthy of a place on your walls.
Schedule Your Family’s Iconic Portrait Session Today
Ready to capture your family’s story in a way that is both stylish and deeply personal? Let’s create a session that celebrates your unique style and connection. Call The Pod Photography today at 310-391-4500 to book your luxury family portrait experience. Our Los Angeles photographers and styling experts are ready to serve all of Southern California.