Have you noticed the barrage of requests for your address? It’s that time again- for the annual family photo to adorn your holiday cards. A welcome sight in the mailbox for loved-ones can be a stressful endeavor to prepare for, especially when it comes to coordinating outfits. You want your family to look cohesive, but not cheesy.

1. Don’t dress in identical outfits, or even the same color. You’re a family, not a football team. Instead, let each outfit incorporate a common color palette- such as greens and blues, or reds and neutrals. The example above uses deep reds and blues with accents of grey and cognac neutrals.

2. Plaids, stripes and prints add visual interest, but keep the scales on the larger side so they photograph well. Ensure that multiple plaids or prints are different enough from each other to keep from looking busy (the plaids above have different ground colors and scales).

3. Stay true to life- don’t try to force looks that are contrary to your personalities. Is pink your daughter’s signature color? Let her incorporate a pink scarf or headband into her look. You’ll be more endearing as your true selves to those that love you, and you’ll photograph better if you are comfortable and confident.

Note: Most families don't fit the 'Mom, Dad, Girl, Boy' mold reflected in this image (nor should they!)... use the style combinations as inspiration and adapt for your own brood!

Mom: Madewell suede jacket, Rebecca Taylor blouse, Rag & Bone jeans, Rag & Bone booties

Baby Boy: Ralph Lauren shirt, Carter's pants, Minnetonka moccasins

Girl: Gap dress, Jessica Simpson boots, Ruby & Bloom headband, Ruby & Bloom tights

Dad: Banana Republic shirt, Brooks Brothers sweater, JCrew pants, Cole Haan oxfords