It’s that time of year again—summer family photo season is here, and choosing the right summer family photo outfits can make all the difference. If you’re feeling the familiar closet-staring panic, wondering how to coordinate outfits for the whole family without everyone looking like they’re wearing matching pajamas, take a deep breath. As a photographer and a mom who’s been there, I’m here to guide you through this process.
Last summer, one of my favorite families arrived for their beach session looking stunning. Meanwhile, I’ll never forget my family photo disaster three years ago, when I chose all-white outfits for a sunset beach session. The result? We looked like ghosts against the golden hour light! But that experience taught me everything I know about what to wear for summer family photos that look beautiful in photographs. It’s from these mistakes that we learn and grow, and I’m here to share my knowledge with you.
Summer family photos should be about capturing precious memories, not stressing about what everyone should wear. I understand that between finding outfits that photograph well, coordinating colors for multiple family members, and dealing with the summer heat, outfit planning can feel overwhelming. But with the right approach, you can have your family looking effortlessly coordinated and comfortable in no time. And the end result? Beautiful, timeless memories that you’ll cherish forever.
The Foundation: Choosing Your Color Palette for Summer Photos
The secret to stunning summer family photos starts with your color palette. Moreover, this foundational step will guide every other styling decision you make.
Start with 1-2 main colors (I recommend one main color for a single family unit, and 2-3 for extended family sessions) and add 1-2 accent colors maximum. Additionally, this approach prevents your family from looking like a rainbow while still adding visual interest. The best summer color combinations include soft neutrals with pops of color, warm earth tones, or classic navy and cream combinations.
Colors to avoid include neon brights that can reflect harshly on the skin, all-black outfits that absorb too much heat, or too many competing patterns that create visual chaos. Furthermore, consider your photo location when choosing colors. Beach sessions call for softer, ocean-inspired palettes, while park sessions can handle richer, earthier tones.
I learned this lesson the hard way during my early days as a photographer. Consequently, I now always discuss color palettes with families during our consultation calls. The difference it makes in the final images is truly remarkable!
Styling Mom: Comfortable Elegance That Photographs Beautifully
Moms often ask me what outfits flatter them best in summer family photos. The answer? Comfortable elegance that moves with you naturally.
Flowy midi dresses or maxi dresses work beautifully because they move gracefully and hide any post-baby concerns you might have. Alternatively, blouses paired with nice pants or skirts create a polished but comfortable look that photographs wonderfully.
Pay attention to fabric choices. Avoid clingy materials that show every imperfection. Instead, choose breathable fabrics like cotton blends that keep you cool and photograph smoothly. These fabrics allow for better movement and comfort during the shoot, and they also photograph well, enhancing the overall look of the photo. Additionally, simple jewelry and comfortable shoes complete the look without overwhelming your natural beauty.
One of my clients recently told me she felt more confident in her family photos than she had in years. The secret? We chose a flowing sage green dress that made her feel elegant and comfortable simultaneously.
Dad’s Summer Photo Style: Looking Sharp Without the Sweat
Dads deserve to look great in family photos, too! Furthermore, the right styling can make all the difference in how comfortable and confident he feels.
Button-down shirts in solid colors or subtle patterns are your best friend. They look polished while staying cool in summer temperatures. Additionally, long-sleeve button-downs can be rolled up to the perfect length for a relaxed yet refined look.
For bottoms, I always recommend long pants over shorts, even in the summer heat. Lightweight chinos or dress pants photograph much more elegantly than shorts. Furthermore, you can always roll them up slightly for added comfort and a more casual vibe while maintaining a polished appearance.
Skip the t-shirts and polo shirts for your family photos. Instead, stick with button-down shirts that can be styled multiple ways throughout the session.
Last month, a dad who initially resisted the photo session told me afterward that he enjoyed it because he felt confident in his outfit. That’s the power of good styling!
Dressing the Kids: Age-Appropriate Styles That Stay Put
A child’s comfort directly impacts the success of a photo shoot. Therefore, age-appropriate styling becomes crucial for beautiful family portraits.
Older Kids (Tweens/Teens)
Let them have some input while guiding them toward family-friendly choices. Solid-colored tops with coordinating bottoms work best. Additionally, avoid graphic tees with large logos or text that can date your photos.
Little Kids (Ages 3-8)
Comfort is key—choose outfits that allow them to move and play freely. Rompers, sundresses, or coordinating separates photograph beautifully. Furthermore, always bring backup options for inevitable spills or meltdowns. Pro tip: Dress smaller children right before the session on location to avoid spills and messes during travel.
Toddlers (Ages 1-3)
Easy-to-change pieces are essential in case of accidents. Avoid anything too precious or restrictive. Suspenders, overalls, or simple dresses work wonderfully and photograph beautifully, capturing a timeless look. Additionally, consider dressing toddlers at the session location to keep them clean and fresh.
Babies (Under 1 Year)
Simple onesies or rompers in solid colors keep things uncomplicated. Choose soft, breathable fabrics for sensitive skin. Additionally, have multiple outfit options ready for spit-up emergencies. For babies, plan to do a quick outfit change right before we begin the session.
I once had a toddler who refused to wear his carefully planned outfit. However, his mom had brought backup options, and we ended up with some of the most adorable photos in a simple striped shirt he loved!
Pro Styling Tips That Make All the Difference
These insider tips can transform your summer family photo styling from stressful to seamless:
Timing matters significantly. Have everyone dressed and ready 15 minutes before leaving to avoid last-minute stress. Additionally, this buffer time allows for any necessary wardrobe adjustments.
The backup plan saves sessions. Always pack an extra outfit for each child—trust me on this one! Moreover, include wet wipes and a stain-removal pen in your bag.
Comfort-test your outfits beforehand. Have kids wear their photo outfits at home first to ensure they’re comfortable moving around. Consequently, you’ll avoid meltdowns during the actual session.
Weather contingency planning is essential. When you book a session with me, I closely monitor the weather in the days leading up to your session. Additionally, I always have a backup rescheduling date ready—usually the next day at sunrise or sunset—so you never have to worry about the weather disrupting your family photos. Furthermore, consider the time of day for your session when choosing fabrics and colors.
Wrinkle prevention keeps everyone looking sharp. Hang outfits the night before and use a steamer if needed. Additionally, pack a small travel steamer for touch-ups at the location.
Just last week, these tips saved a session when a sudden weather change required switching from outdoor to indoor outfits. The family was prepared, and we created beautiful images regardless!
Client closet access eliminates styling stress
During our consultation, you’ll receive personalized recommendations on what to wear and gain access to my curated client closet. I carry women’s dresses in sizes S-L, children’s clothing from 6 months to 6 years, and even dad shirts—all in beautiful soft colors, including neutrals, blushes, sage greens, and light blues. Furthermore, you can browse styles through my online gallery to help me understand what you’re drawn to. On session day, you’re invited to visit my studio to select outfits for the whole family or mix pieces with items you’re bringing from home.
Creating Picture-Perfect Summer Family Photos Starts With the Right Outfits
Remember, the most important element of beautiful family photos isn’t perfect styling—it’s genuine connection and comfort. However, when your family feels confident in their outfits, that confidence shines through in every single image.
Good styling enhances the overall photo experience by removing one source of stress. Furthermore, when everyone feels comfortable and looks great, the authentic smiles and natural interactions I capture become even more beautiful.
I’m passionate about helping families feel their absolute best because I know how important these photos are. They become the images you’ll treasure for generations. Additionally, when styling stress is eliminated, we can focus on what matters—capturing your family’s unique love and connection.
The perfect outfit matters less than genuine smiles and the love you share. However, when you feel great about how you look, that confidence radiates through every photograph.
Ready to create stunning summer family photos without the stress of outfit planning? I’d love to help you plan the perfect session, from styling consultation to capturing those precious moments.
Find some inspiration through my Pinterest board for ideal outfits for your summer family session.
Don’t let another summer pass without capturing these precious moments. Contact me today to discuss your family’s unique style and book your session. Together, we’ll create images you’ll treasure forever—with outfits that make everyone feel confident and beautiful!
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Andrea Krey is a premier photographer based in the Florida Panhandle, specializing in maternity, newborn, and family photography. Known for her artistic approach and attention to detail, she creates timeless images that families cherish for generations. Trained by industry experts and certified in newborn safety, Andrea ensures that your little one is handled with the utmost care. As a registered and insured business, Andrea Krey Photography LLC is committed to providing families with a seamless and stress-free experience. She has been named Best Newborn Photographer several years in a row.
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