When planning a family beach photoshoot, what you wear plays a huge role in setting the scene. Family beach photos aren’t just about capturing a moment—they’re about creating a story that showcases your family's unique connection against the beautiful backdrop of nature. Your choice of clothing helps bring out the colors, emotions, and atmosphere of the beach, enhancing the final images and making them timeless keepsakes.
This guide, created by Austen Hunter—a family beach photographer in Pensacola, Florida, covers everything you need to know about what to wear for family beach photos. From choosing the right fabrics and colors to finding a comfortable fit and adding those perfect accessories, I’ll walk you through each step of planning your family’s beach photoshoot wardrobe. By the end, you’ll feel prepared to choose outfits that allow your personalities to shine, all while complementing the beautiful coastal setting.
Key Takeaways
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Best Fabrics for Beach Photo Outfits
Choosing the right fabrics for a beach photoshoot can make all the difference in both comfort and style. The ideal fabrics for beachwear should be lightweight, breathable, and able to handle a bit of wind and moisture. Here’s a look at some of the best options:
Lightweight Cotton and Linen for Comfort
Cotton and linen are excellent choices for beach photos. These fabrics are naturally lightweight, breathable, and perfect for Florida's warm, humid climate. Cotton is soft and comfortable, while linen has a unique texture that brings a casual, relaxed vibe to your photos. Both fabrics move well in the beach breeze, adding a touch of elegance to each shot.
Tip: Linen tends to wrinkle easily, so be mindful of this if you’re going for a more polished look. Consider giving outfits a quick steam before the session to minimize wrinkles.
Polyester and Rayon Blends for Style and Practicality
For those who want something a bit more resilient, polyester and rayon blends are a good option. These fabrics are quick-drying, wrinkle-resistant, and durable enough to withstand a beach session. Polyester is less breathable than cotton, but it provides a stylish, smooth finish and resists fading, making it ideal for color-rich outfits. Rayon is soft and drapes well, creating a beautiful silhouette in photos.
Tip: Look for a blend with natural fibers to balance comfort and style, ensuring you’re not too warm or restricted as you enjoy your session.
Best Fabrics for Beach Photos
Fabric Type | Benefits for Beach Photos | Considerations |
Cotton | Breathable, light, natural look | Wrinkles easily, may cling if wet |
Linen | Lightweight, casual, great texture | Wrinkles easily, delicate care needed |
Polyester Blend | Dries quickly, resists wrinkles | Less breathable, can feel warmer |
Rayon | Soft, drapes well, airy feel | Prone to shrinking, delicate to wash |
Finding the Perfect Fit for your Beach Photo Outfits
Comfort is key when it comes to family beach photos, as it allows you to feel relaxed, confident, and ready to enjoy the experience. Choosing the right fit isn’t just about size; it’s about selecting clothing that lets you move freely and enjoy the session without restriction.
"Choose outfits that allow you to move, laugh, and play—it’s the spontaneity of beach photos that makes them unforgettable." - Austen Hunter
Stay Comfortable in Relaxed Fits
Beach photoshoots are often dynamic, involving playful poses, walking, and even a little splashing in the water. Choose relaxed, flowy fits that allow you to move comfortably. Flowy dresses, loose button-down shirts, and casual shorts are all great choices. Remember, your comfort will reflect in your photos—a relaxed, happy family makes for the most memorable images.
Tip: Avoid overly tight or restrictive clothing, as it may feel uncomfortable over the course of the shoot. Lightweight fabrics that move with the breeze will give a beautiful, natural look to your family beach photos.
Tips on Choosing Footwear for the Beach
When it comes to footwear, simplicity is best. Sandals, flip-flops, and espadrilles are all beach-friendly options, but going barefoot is always a classic choice for beach photos. Bare feet allow you to feel more connected to the sand and provide a natural, carefree vibe. If you prefer footwear, choose neutral-toned sandals that won’t detract from your outfit.
Tip: If you’re planning to walk on rocky or uneven areas, consider bringing a pair of comfortable, secure water sandals. This way, you can switch between barefoot and shoes, depending on the location.
Beach-Friendly Accessories
Accessories can add a personal touch to your beach photos and enhance the overall look. However, it’s important to keep them simple and practical, especially since beach sessions often involve movement, sand, and sometimes even water. Here are some accessory ideas that work well for a family beach photoshoot, along with a few things to avoid.
What to Bring
Sunhats: A wide-brimmed sunhat not only provides shade but also adds a chic touch to your outfit. Choose neutral tones or natural materials like straw that blend well with beach colors.
Simple Jewelry: Lightweight necklaces, bracelets, or earrings can add a bit of sparkle to your look. Consider pieces that won’t distract or get tangled, like small pendants or delicate bracelets.
Sunglasses: Stylish and functional, sunglasses add an effortless, casual vibe to beach photos. Neutral or mirrored lenses work best, as they complement most color schemes and won’t pull focus away from the overall scene.
Beach Bag: A woven or canvas bag is both practical and visually fitting for the beach. Use it to store items like phones, keys, and sunscreen, so you can keep personal belongings safe and out of the sand.
Tip: Try to keep accessories minimal to avoid overshadowing the natural beauty of your setting. Accessories should add to your look, not distract from it.
What to Leave Behind
Heavy Jewelry: Avoid bulky necklaces or large earrings, as they can feel uncomfortable and may be at risk of getting lost.
High Heels or Dress Shoes: These are impractical on the sand and can take away from the relaxed beach aesthetic. Stick to flat sandals or go barefoot for an authentic look.
Anything Sentimental: If an accessory is particularly valuable or sentimental, it’s best to leave it at home. The beach is unpredictable, and it’s easy for small items to get lost in the sand or water.
By keeping accessories simple and practical, you’ll achieve a polished look that complements the coastal environment, allowing you and your family to feel at ease and fully present in the moment.
Choosing Color Schemes for Family Beach Photos
Color choice is a key element in creating a cohesive look that stands out against the beach backdrop. Selecting colors that complement each other and the natural surroundings will help emphasize the beauty of your photos, bringing your family together in a visually pleasing way. Here are a few popular color schemes to consider for your family beach photos.
Monochromatic Looks for a Classic Style
A monochromatic color scheme features different shades of the same color, creating a clean, unified appearance. Soft blues, grays, and whites work well in a beach setting, blending effortlessly with the sky and ocean. This color palette is great for families who want a timeless, classic look.
Bold Statements with Complementary Colors
If you’re looking to add some vibrancy, complementary colors (those opposite each other on the color wheel) make a bold, striking impression. For example, teal and coral are wonderful complements that add brightness to beach photos. This scheme is ideal for larger families or groups with children, as it brings an extra element of fun and energy to the session.
"Complementary colors can create beautiful visual contrast, making your family stand out against the soft tones of the beach." - Austen Hunter
Natural Harmony with Analogous Colors
Analogous color schemes use colors next to each other on the color wheel, like blue, green, and aqua. These colors are often found together in nature, making them perfect for the beach. They create a harmonious, tranquil feel that fits beautifully with a relaxed beach vibe.
Timeless Pastels and Soft Neutrals
Pastel colors, such as blush pink, light blue, and soft yellow, add a warm and dreamy quality to beach photos. Neutrals like beige, ivory, and soft gray are also wonderful for a sophisticated and relaxed look. These tones reflect the natural colors of sand and sea, helping your family stand out without clashing with the environment.
Tip: When choosing your color scheme, think about the mood you want to convey. Monochromatic and pastel tones lend a sense of calm and unity, while complementary colors bring energy and excitement to your photos. The beach provides a stunning natural backdrop, so choose colors that enhance, rather than compete with, the environment.
Popular Color Schemes for Family Beach Photos
Color Scheme | Description | Best For |
Monochromatic | Variations of a single color, creating a soft, cohesive look | Small families, classic or elegant themes |
Complementary | Colors opposite on the color wheel (e.g., blue & orange) for bold contrast | Larger families or sessions with younger children |
Analogous | Colors next to each other on the color wheel, found in nature (e.g., blue, green, aqua) | Blending into the beach scenery, casual sessions |
Soft Neutrals & Pastels | Whites, beiges, light blues, and blush for a calm, timeless beach vibe | All family sizes, timeless and relaxed portraits |
Planning Your Beach Photoshoot Wardrobe
A successful beach photoshoot isn’t just about picking the right outfits—it’s also about planning for the unique conditions of the beach setting. From the lighting and weather to the need for essential items, a bit of preparation goes a long way in ensuring your session goes smoothly. Here are some top tips for planning your family’s wardrobe and packing the essentials for your beach photoshoot.
Consider the Time of Day and Weather
The time of day has a significant impact on the look and feel of your family beach photos, as well as the colors and fabrics you choose. Early morning and late afternoon (known as the “golden hours”) offer soft, warm lighting that is incredibly flattering and perfect for capturing beach photos. If your session is around midday, when the sun is brightest, light-colored and breathable fabrics will help keep you cool.
Tip: Keep an eye on the weather forecast. If it’s a bit breezy, consider adding layers like a light cardigan or shawl that can be easily removed or adjusted to stay comfortable.
Coordinating Outfits Without Matching Too Closely
Achieving a cohesive look doesn’t mean everyone has to dress the same. Instead, select a color palette for the family, then let each person express their style within that range. For instance, you might choose a palette of soft blues, whites, and beiges. One family member could wear a solid color, another a subtle pattern, and someone else a textured fabric within those tones
What to Pack for Your Beach Photoshoot
Being prepared with a few key items will make your beach photoshoot more enjoyable and help ensure that everyone stays comfortable. Here’s a quick checklist of what to bring along:
Towels: Great for sitting on or drying off if you venture into the water.
Sunscreen: Essential for protecting your skin, especially during midday sessions.
Extra Clothes: Bringing a backup outfit can be helpful in case of unexpected weather or if you want a quick wardrobe change.
Water and Snacks: Keep hydrated and have a few snacks on hand, especially if you’re photographing young children.
Beach Bag: A durable, sand-resistant bag to store essentials like phones, keys, and wallets.
Tip: Avoid bulky bags and packs that can weigh you down; instead, bring a small, easy-to-carry bag with essentials only. This will allow for quick and easy access during the session, keeping you relaxed and focused on creating beautiful memories.
Frequently Asked Questions
When planning a family beach photoshoot, many clients have similar questions. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions to help you make the best choices for your session.
Q: What colors should we avoid for our beach photos?
A: It’s best to avoid neon colors, as they can overpower the natural beach tones and detract from the focus on your family. Similarly, bold, busy patterns may draw attention away from the beautiful scenery and your family’s expressions. Stick to soft, neutral tones or gentle, nature-inspired colors that enhance the setting.
Q: How can we coordinate outfits for the whole family without looking too “matchy”?
Q: What’s the best time of day for beach photos?
Q: Should we bring any extra items for the shoot?
Q: Are shoes necessary, or can we go barefoot?
Outfit Ideas and Final Tips for Stunning Family Beach Photos
Need a little inspiration for your beach photoshoot wardrobe? Here are some simple, stylish outfit ideas based on popular themes that work beautifully on the beach.
"Family beach photos are about more than just what you wear; they're about capturing authentic connections in a setting that celebrates nature’s beauty." - Austen Hunter
Outfit Ideas for a Variety of Themes
Nautical Look: Combine navy blue, white, and soft grays for a fresh, maritime-inspired style. Striped shirts, white linen dresses, and khaki shorts can bring out a classic coastal vibe.
Bohemian Style: Think airy, flowy dresses, soft neutrals, and earthy tones like sand, olive, and taupe. Accessorize with woven hats or beaded jewelry to add a boho touch.
Pastel Dream: Light pinks, soft blues, and gentle yellows create a dreamy look that blends perfectly with the beach’s natural hues. Pastels work well for sunrise or sunset sessions, as they reflect the soft lighting beautifully.
All-White Classic: For an effortlessly timeless look, dress everyone in shades of white. Mix different textures, like lace, cotton, and linen, for added dimension. White outfits pop against the beach’s sandy backdrop and keep the focus on your family.
Tip: No matter the theme, prioritize comfort and simplicity. Choose outfits that reflect your family’s style and make everyone feel confident. Remember, the goal is to have fun and capture genuine moments!
Ready to Capture Your Memories? Book Your Session!
Family beach photos are about celebrating togetherness in a place that feels like paradise. With a little planning, the right wardrobe, and the stunning coastal backdrop, you’re guaranteed to create lasting memories you’ll cherish for years to come.
Are you ready to capture your family’s unique story on the beautiful beaches of the Gulf Coast? Schedule your session with Austen Hunter Photography today, and let’s create timeless images that reflect your family’s love and connection. Get in touch to start planning your perfect family beach photoshoot!
