Creating the Perfect Outfits for Summer Family Photos

Summer is one of the most popular times for family photos, and for good reason! The longer days, beautiful sunsets, lush greenery, and warm weather create the perfect backdrop for capturing memories. One of the biggest questions families ask before their session is, "What should we wear?" The good news is that creating beautiful, timeless outfits doesn't have to be stressful.

Start with a Color Palette

Instead of matching everyone in the exact same color, choose a color palette that coordinates well together. Soft neutrals, earth tones, and muted colors photograph beautifully during summer sessions.

Some of my favorite summer color combinations include:

• Cream, beige, and light blue

• Sage green, ivory, and tan

• Dusty blue, blush, and cream

• Rust, mustard, and neutral tones

• Soft pastels paired with white or beige

Choosing 3-4 coordinating colors helps create a cohesive look while allowing each family member's personality to shine through.

Dress Mom First

One of my favorite styling tips is to start with Mom's outfit first. Choose a dress or outfit that makes you feel confident and comfortable, then build the rest of the family's outfits around those colors.

Flowy dresses work especially well for summer sessions because they add movement and photograph beautifully in the breeze.

Mix Textures and Patterns

Adding different textures creates visual interest without looking overly busy. Consider mixing:

• Linen

• Lace

• Knit fabrics

• Soft cotton

• Eyelet details

If incorporating patterns, limit them to one or two family members and keep them subtle. Small florals, soft stripes, or delicate prints work best.

Coordinate, Don't Match

Gone are the days of everyone wearing identical white shirts and jeans. Coordinating colors creates a more natural, modern look.

Think of your family's outfits as pieces of the same puzzle. They should complement each other without being exactly the same.

Consider Your Location

Your session location should help guide your outfit choices.

For beach sessions:

• Light neutrals

• Soft blues

• Whites and creams

For fields and parks:

• Sage greens

• Rust tones

• Creams and warm neutrals

For downtown sessions:

• Richer colors

• More structured outfits

• Elevated casual styles

Keep Comfort in Mind

Children are happiest when they're comfortable. Avoid stiff clothing, itchy fabrics, or shoes they'll struggle to walk in.

The more comfortable everyone feels, the more genuine smiles and interactions we'll capture during your session.

Don't Forget the Details

The little details can make a big difference.

Consider:

• Neutral shoes

• Simple jewelry

• Hair accessories

• Coordinating belts or suspenders

• Clean, wrinkle-free clothing

Avoid large logos, neon colors, and graphic t-shirts that can distract from your family's connection.

My Final Tip

The most important thing you can wear to your family session is confidence. Choose outfits that feel like you, coordinate well together, and allow you to relax and enjoy time with your loved ones.

At the end of the day, your photos are about capturing your family's love, laughter, and connection. The right outfits simply help highlight those beautiful moments.