Attire Tips
What should you wear to your portrait session?
Learning about what to wear for your family pictures should not be complicated or stressful. Here are some fitting family outfit ideas on what to wear to your portrait session.
Coordinate — Don’t Match Exactly
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Pick a color palette and vary shades and textures instead of everyone wearing the exact same outfit.
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For groups, aim for complementary colors rather than identical clothing.
Choose Soft, Coastal Colors
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Neutral tones like white, cream, beige, tan, soft blues, sage, and pastels photograph beautifully against sand and water.
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Avoid neon colors or very dark shades that can look harsh in bright sunlight.
Go With Lightweight, Flowing Fabrics
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Linen, cotton, chiffon, and gauze move nicely in ocean breezes and create natural-looking motion in photos.
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Avoid stiff fabrics that wrinkle easily or restrict movement.
Keep Footwear Simple
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Barefoot is often best for beach portraits.
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If wearing shoes, choose simple sandals or neutral-toned footwear that won’t draw attention.
Consider the Wind
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Flowy dresses and loose shirts look great, but make sure they won’t constantly blow into faces.
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Hair styles that handle wind well (soft waves, braids, or pulled-back styles) photograph nicely.
Add Layers and Texture
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Light cardigans, denim jackets, scarves, or textured fabrics add visual interest without overwhelming the photo.
Keep Accessories Minimal
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Simple jewelry works best.
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Avoid anything that reflects too much light or needs constant adjustment.
Dress Comfortably
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If you feel comfortable, it shows in the photos.
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Make sure clothing fits well and allows sitting, walking, and playing naturally.
Think About the Time of Day
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Sunset sessions often look best with warm, soft tones.
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Morning sessions can work well with lighter, airy colors.