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Filoli Family Photoshoot Outfits: When Formal Feels Just Right

  • Writer: Joy Moon
    Joy Moon
  • Jul 26
  • 2 min read
Family of three sitting in Filoli next to flowers on the stairs

Let’s be honest: most of the time, I’m telling families to skip the matching polos and just wear what makes you feel like you. But Filoli? Filoli is a different story.


family of three standing in front of the buildling at Filoli

This place is a whole mood—like Bridgerton meets Bay Area day. “You might need a charcuterie board for this.” And that’s exactly why it’s the perfect spot if you’ve got a dress you’ve been dying to wear but thought, “Is this too much for family photos?”

Spoiler: it’s not.



Filoli family photoshoot outfits; think dresses!

This sweet family showed up in outfits that felt just a touch elevated—nothing stiff or over-the-top, just a nice chic light sage dress that felt relaxed but still intentional.



The matching outfit for the baby? He’s truly the star. 


That’s the beauty of Filoli: you can dress it up a little. The setting practically begs for a swishy dress or that linen set you bought “just in case.” And because there’s so much open shade and filtered light through the trees, you don’t have to stress about harsh sun or weird shadows. The lighting just... works. Like, always.

Filoli Does Charge an Entrance Fee

Yep, it’s true—Filoli requires tickets for entry (think of it like the Disneyland of gardens, minus the mouse ears). That means you’ll need to factor in the entrance fee for your session, but for some families? It’s totally worth it.



So What Should You Wear to a Filoli Family Photoshoot?

Think elevated but comfortable. A dress that moves. Neutrals or soft pastels. Linen or cotton pieces with a little texture. And always something you can chase your kid through a rose garden in—because let's not forget: they’re still going to run.


And if styling’s not your thing? Don’t worry—I help every client with a wardrobe guide and I am only an email away if we need to play a little “what not to wear”


Want to do Filoli for your next family photoshoot?


Let’s talk about making it happen. Just bring the dress.


I’ll bring the bad jokes, and a camera.


family of three in front of the building in filoli


filoli family photoshoot outfits

filoli family photoshoot outfits

 
 
 
black and white logo that says Joy Moon Photography

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