What to Wear: Beach Family Photo Session Guide

Thank you for booking your family beach photo session!
To help you prepare and look your best, I've put together this clothing guide with tips and suggestions that will ensure beautiful, timeless photos you'll treasure for years to come.

Colour Palette Recommendations

  • Soft neutrals: Cream, tan, light gray

  • Pastel tones: Soft blue, mint, blush pink, lavender

  • Ocean hues: Navy, seafoam, teal

  • Earth tones: Sage green, terracotta

Things to Avoid:

  • Neon colours (they can reflect colour onto skin)

  • Black (creates harsh contrast)

  • Bright red (can overpower other colours)

  • Any clothing with big logos/distracting patterns

Coordinating Your Family's Outfits

Instead of matching exactly, aim to coordinate within a cohesive color palette:

  1. Choose 2-3 main colors and incorporate them throughout your family's outfits

  2. Add 1-2 accent colors for visual interest

  3. You can mix patterns and solids - some family members in patterns, others in complementary solids

  4. Varied textures works too - linen, cotton, light knits create visual dimension

Specific Clothing Suggestions

For Women/Moms:

  • I recommend picking your outfit first and then coordinating everyone else’s around yours!

  • Flowy maxi or midi dresses

  • Linen pants with a simple blouse

  • Sundresses in solid colors or subtle patterns

  • Light cardigans or wraps for layering

  • Sun hats (if desired - they can add beautiful dimension)

For Men/Dads:

  • Linen or cotton polo shirt (rolled sleeves look casual and polished)

  • Khaki or light-coloured shorts/pants

  • Light sweaters for cooler conditions

For Children:

  • Simple, comfortable clothing they can move in

  • Avoid characters, logos, or words on clothing

  • Similar colour palette to parents, but can incorporate playful elements

  • Consider bringing a change of clothes for after the session

For Babies/Toddlers:

  • Simple rompers or dresses

  • Avoid overly frilly/bulky outfits that can overwhelm small bodies

  • Neutral-colored diaper covers if wearing dresses

  • Barefoot works best for little ones

Practical Considerations

Footwear:

  • Barefoot works wonderfully for beach photos!

  • If wearing shoes, choose something you don’t mind getting sandy or wet

  • Avoid high heels/athletic shoes/sneakers

Weather Preparation:

  • Bring layers that coordinate with your outfits

  • Hair accessories that won't blow away in wind

Accessories:

  • Keep it minimal - small earrings, delicate necklaces

  • Consider incorporating sun hats, simple hair accessories to stop hair from blowing

  • Avoid watches or anything with bright logos

Final Tips:

  1. Prepare outfits early - try everything on at least a week before the session

  2. Iron clothing the night before

  3. Feed children before the session - and bring snacks/treats if you think it would help!

  4. Relax and have fun! The most beautiful photos capture authentic moments and genuine connection

I'm looking forward to capturing beautiful memories of your family!

If you have any questions about clothing choices, please don't hesitate to reach out… I am more than happy to provide suggestions!


Here are a few inspiration photos… you can always go through my portfolio or look on google for more ideas!