What to Wear for a Holiday Family Photoshoot (Florida Edition)

Holiday portraits are more than just photos, they’re the keepsakes your family will treasure for years to come, displayed on holiday cards, framed in your home, and shared with loved ones.

Here in Florida, we don’t get snowy streets or cozy sweater weather in December. But that doesn’t mean your holiday portraits can’t feel festive, magical, and timeless. That’s why my Limited Edition Holiday Portraits are designed with Florida families in mind, classic and elegant, captured in the comfort of my Lakewood Ranch studio.

This year, I’m thrilled to introduce a brand-new set: The Enchanted Town Arch.

Step Into the Enchanted Town Arch

This year’s Limited Edition set was created to bring the feeling of a storybook holiday scene, right here in Florida. Imagine a charming town archway adorned with snow-dusted evergreens, glowing lanterns, and a touch of festive sparkle. It’s warm, whimsical, and filled with nostalgia, yet styled with a clean, modern edge.

Whether you’re photographing your children, your whole family, or just the two of you, the Enchanted Town Arch is designed to highlight your outfits and personalities while creating portraits that feel timeless and holiday-ready.

Holiday Portraits in Lakewood Ranch Studio taken by Sylwia Ok Photography


Color Palettes That Shine in the Studio

The Enchanted Town Arch backdrop works beautifully with both rich tones and soft neutrals. Here are some palettes that will make your portraits glow:

  • Jewel Tones: Emerald, cranberry, navy, plum—deep, festive colors that pop against the greenery and archway.

  • Classic Neutrals: Cream, beige, soft gray, perfect for a lighter, polished look.

  • Touches of Metallic: Gold, champagne, or silver accessories add sparkle without overwhelming the scene.

  • White-on-White Elegance: Layering soft whites and ivories creates a luxurious, timeless feel.

Outfit Tips for Polished, Elevated Portraits

  • Coordinate, Don’t Match
    Choose 2–3 colors from your palette and let each family member wear a variation for a cohesive, stylish look.

  • Elevated Fabrics Work Best
    Velvet, satin, tailored cotton, or soft knits photograph beautifully under studio lighting and match the elegance of the set.

  • Keep it Simple
    Skip busy patterns or logos, they’ll compete with the backdrop. Solid colors or subtle textures are best.

  • Accessories Add Magic
    Think velvet bows, metallic jewelry, suspenders for little ones, or a chic holiday headband. Small details can elevate the entire portrait.

  • Shoes Matter
    The archway allows shoes to be visible in portraits, so choose polished footwear or go barefoot for a relaxed, cozy feel.

Styling Support: A Boutique Experience

Choosing outfits doesn’t have to be stressful. Every Limited Edition Holiday Portrait booking includes access to:

  • A Pinterest inspiration board curated just for the Enchanted Town Arch set

  • Personalized feedback: send me photos of your outfit options, and I’ll help refine your final choices

  • Tips for mixing pieces you already own with new seasonal accents for a polished, family-wide look

See below what families wear in the previous years…

Let’s Make Holiday Magic Together

Limited Edition sessions are offered only a few times each year and sell out quickly:

  • September 15 - Priority booking opens for VIPs, subscribers, and past clients

  • September 17 - Booking opens to the public

These sessions are short, sweet, and perfectly styled for the season. With only one beautifully designed backdrop this year, spots will go quickly.

Let’s Make Your Holiday Portraits Unforgettable

With its snow-dusted greenery, glowing lanterns, and festive charm, the Enchanted Town Arch will set the stage for portraits you’ll treasure for years to come. Add in carefully chosen outfits and a guided styling experience, and your family will look polished, elevated, and full of holiday spirit.

Mark your calendar for September 15 and be ready to reserve your session. Let’s make holiday magic together!

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