As a family photographer in Sarasota, FL I often will get asked the question “So what do we wear?” Before I was a family photographer I wouldn’t have had a clue what to wear to a Thanksgiving dinner let alone a family session! This can also be a huge stress relief on Mamas to know that it actually isn’t as difficult as it may seem. Your photographer should guide you on this, but if you like to be prepared before hand I have listed 5 tips on styling for a family photoshoot on the beach. I have had years of experience with this so take my word on it!

1. Mom Comes First!

In order for you to know what colors will coordinate great together and create a cohesive look It is important to style mom first (After all this is MOMS session right?) You want to feel comfortable in what you wear because that will be noticed in photos if you don’t feel comfortable in your chosen outfit. Once mom has an overall idea of what color she would like to wear then you can move on to the kids.

2. Choosing outfits for everyone else.

For beach photography I believe that neutral colors work like a charm. For my own photoshoots I never overly match everyone. What do I mean by that? If mom is wearing a mustard color I will not dress everyone in a shade of yellow. I would divide the colors up to colors within that same theme. Always avoid bright neon colors. It never looks good for beach sessions! Stay away from character shoes for kids, zigzag patterns and designs that make your eyes hurt.

3. Texture Texture Texture!

I cannot stress enough how much adding patterns/texture will make a huge difference! In the photo above I have the little girl in a patterned dress. Notice that it has some of moms color in her dress as well as her sister and her dad. The overall color scheme for this styled photoshoot was browns, ivory and rust. We did not need 5-6 more colors added in. Just having 3 colors is enough. Once you nail down your color scheme, then you can start looking at patterns/texture for at least one person to wear.

4. Dad’s Matter Too

This one is simple yet IMPORTANT. For dads I always recommend wearing a Henley with either khakis, chinos or dark colored jeans. For me personally I don’t think bright blue jeans work well for beach sessions. If you find a henley with patterns, even better! Rolling up the pants always adds to the beach vibe!

5. Last but certainly not least.. Accessories & Hair

Accessories and Hair are just as important as adding texture! Think of it this way. The color scheme, texture, hairstyle and accessories are each part of a main body. Without one or the other it will not function right. This is how I look at it in terms of a family photoshoot on the beach. You can always search on Pinterest for accessories or hair styles for a family photoshoot. Think braids, wavy hair, or even adding a hat will do the trick. Now you can still have your hair down and straight of course (I did that for my own family photoshoot I had) BUT if you do that, make sure to make up for that by adding in accessories like bracelets or rings or also a textured dress on anyone in the photoshoot with you.

I hope these 5 tips on styling for a family photoshoot on the beach helped you a little bit. I listed below some of my favorite shops for families. If you’re in the Sarasota area check out my page if you need a photographer while visiting!

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Cassie Quinn | New Hampshire Photographer (@cassieleephotos) • Instagram photos and videos