All About The Outfits

When it comes to family photos, choosing the right outfits can make a huge difference in how the images turn out. For summer photoshoots, the key is to keep the look light, bright, and comfortable while still coordinating as a family. Here’s a guide on what to wear for family photos for all ages, with suggestions for this season’s summer styles.

1. Light, Airy Fabrics for All Ages

For summer family photos, think about light fabrics that breathe and keep everyone comfortable. Cotton, linen, and chiffon are all great choices for the warm months. These fabrics look effortless and add a nice flow to your photos.

• Adults: Opt for flowy dresses for women and lightweight shirts or polos for men. Linen or cotton button-down shirts in neutral tones, paired with casual shorts or chinos, work well.

• Kids: Dress your little ones in cotton dresses, shorts, and tees. Avoid heavy fabrics that may make them uncomfortable in the heat.

2. Color Coordination, Not Matching

Gone are the days of everyone in matching outfits. Instead, aim for coordinated colors that complement each other and blend well with the natural surroundings.

• Adults: Consider wearing soft, neutral shades like beige, cream, or light blue for a calm, natural vibe. If you want a bit of color, try pastel tones (soft pink, lavender, light coral) or muted jewel tones (sage green, orangem mustard yellow, teal).

• Kids: For little ones, mix and match light patterns like gingham, stripes, or florals in soft colors. These patterns add visual interest without overwhelming the image.

3. Footwear

Comfortable footwear is a must, especially when you’re walking around outdoors or on the beach.

• Adults: Women can wear sandals, wedges, or neutral flats, while men can go for loafers, boat shoes, or casual sandals. Beach I always suggest barefoot.

• Kids: Soft sandals or cute sneakers work well, but if you’re going to the beach, bare feet are a must.

4. Accessorize Lightly

Accessories can elevate your photos without distracting from the main subject. Choose accessories that add a touch of personality but are simple enough to not draw attention away from the family.

• Adults: Add some subtle jewelry, like a delicate necklace or a watch, and hats like wide-brimmed straw hats for a beachy vibe.

• Kids: Simple headbands, hair clips, or a cute hat can add character without being too much.

5. For Babies and Toddlers

For the little ones, comfort is key, but you can still get creative with their outfits.

• Baby Girls: Soft rompers or dresses in pastel shades, muted earthy jewel tones or subtle floral patterns are perfect for summer.

• Baby Boys: Lightweight onesies, suspenders with a cute shirt, or shorts with a solid tee make for great options.

6. For the Beach or Outdoor Settings

If you’re planning your family shoot on the beach or in a more nature-centric setting, keep the environment in mind when choosing colors and styles.

• Beachy Vibes: Think airy, breezy dresses, light-colored shirts, and soft fabrics. Whites, pale blues, and soft greens work wonderfully against the sand and water. Avoid bold, neon colors, which can be too harsh in natural light.

• Nature Settings: For park or forest shoots, go for earthy tones like olive green, light browns, muted reds, and shades of denim that blend with the outdoor backdrop. Light floral prints and nature-inspired patterns can also work beautifully.

7. Hair and Makeup

• Adults: Keep it natural and simple. Light, natural makeup and softly styled hair will ensure you look fresh and effortless. For a beach shoot, loose, beachy waves are always a good option.

• Kids: For younger kids, keep hair natural and simple—think messy buns for girls or let their curls flow or tousled curls for boys. This adds to the casual, carefree summer feel.

8. Avoid Logos and Heavy Patterns

While subtle patterns are great, large logos, busy graphics, or very bright patterns can be distracting in photos. Stick to classic, timeless pieces and avoid anything too trendy that might make your photos feel outdated in the future.

Suggested Outfits:

• For Moms: A light, flowy maxi dress in a pastel color or a soft floral print paired with neutral sandals.

• For Dads: A button-down shirt in soft blue or white, khaki shorts, and loafers or casual shoes.

• For Boys: A casual short-sleeve shirt in light blue or green with khaki shorts or rolled-up pants and sneakers.

• For Girls: A light, flowy dress in pale pink or lavender or a cute blouse with a skirt, paired with sandals.

• For Babies: A soft onesie or a cute romper in neutral colors or gentle patterns.

Summer family photos are all about capturing moments that feel fresh, natural, and full of life. By choosing light fabrics, coordinating colors, and keeping comfort in mind, your family will look effortlessly stylish. Don’t forget to let your personalities shine through, and most importantly, have fun! The best family photos capture love and joy—so relax and enjoy the moment.

Below is mostly a guide for you to see how you can coordinate different colors without being matchy matchy and different combinations that work well together. There are not jewel tones below but those also go wonderful together. Think deep mustard with blue or deep orange with blue or deep purple. Mustard color with deep green. So many options.

Shannon