Are you planning a summer family photoshoot and need outfit ideas?!
I have got you covered with outfits for all of your family members to create beautiful summer family photos that you will cherish for years to come.
Check out my ultimate guide for summer family photoshoot outfits below.
Whether you have a professional photographer taking family portraits, or you are taking the picture yourself, the outfits you wear when taking pictures are definitely the focus of family photos in summer.
So before you set up your family photo sessions, be sure to check out all of my family photo outfit tips to get the best photos this Summer!
Here are the best color schemes for your family summer photoshoot, and tons of outfit ideas for everyone in your family.
MY TOP TIPS FOR PLANNING SUMMER OUTFITS FOR FAMILY PHOTOS
- Location – What will your “backdrop” look like? You want to keep this in mind so you don’t blend in to the background. Also, if you are inside or outside you will want to make sure your outfits fit the “theme” of the location. Summer months are always really warm and you want your family to be comfortable, especially if you are outside.
- Occasion – Are you planning to frame these in your home? Create a photo album? Print and share with extended family/friends? This is something to consider when choosing your outfits.
- Color Palette – You will want to consider your backdrop/location and with it being Summer, I tend to opt for either crisp neutral tones, or bright colors that flatter all of the members of your family, and make it easy to coordinate together for a cohesive look. If you want everyone to be matching, you will want to choose 1 color or print that works well for everyone.
- Inspiration – need more inspiration? Create a Pinterest board with photos that you love with the color scheme that you are going for.
BEST COLOR PALETTE IDEAS FOR SUMMER FAMILY PHOTOS
Crisp Whites/Light Gray – For a monochrome look that is so crisp and clean. You can do this with all white outfits or even do white tops paired with blue jeans for a classic look.
This is a great idea especially for a summer vacation look if you plan on taking photos at a beach or a more tropical location.
Bright Colors – Summer is the time to bust out the bright colors, pick different shades that look best on each family member.
Try to have each family member wearing a different bright color for a really fun and bold look for summer family pictures.
Shades of Blue and White – A classic color combo that lends a coastal feel. Blue and white together are the best colors for the summer as it feels so classic.
Chambray is a great option for this as it is breathable and stylish. Pair a chambray shirt with white denim shorts and you are set.
Neutrals – A mix of tan, beige, black, brown, ivory and gray feels classic and sophisticated.
I always love how neutrals look, and when I am planning photos that will framed I like to stick to a neutral palette so that it goes with home decor in every room.
You can stick with solid colors here if you are trying to avoid too much pattern mixing.
Pastels – Cheerful and flattering on all skin tones, pastels are so fun for summer family photoshoots. Think baby blues, blush pinks and pale yellows.
These tones not only look great in photographs but are appropriate for summer weather as darker colors tend to make you warmer.
Shades of Pink – For a fun mix up, rock different shades of pink/neutrals! If you have a little girl or maybe a gender reveal/maternity shoot this would be fun to do to get the whole family dressed in pink!
Different shades of pinks/blush/mauve etc. would look so gorgeous all together.
Primary Colors – A classic combo that feels preppy and festive. This is a great classic summer feel that adds tons of visual interest, but also would look awesome if used for a holiday card later on in the year.
Each family member can wear different colors but if you stay within the primary colors it will still feel cohesive.
Earth Tones – For a more laid vibe and effortless feel – earth tones are flattering on all skin tones and are really easy to pair together to create a cohesive look.
Warm colors are great and have a timeless feel if you are planning on using these photos for displaying in your home.
Tip: You don’t have to hire a professional photographer for your family photo shoot. You can set up a tripod and remote, however if you do, ask your photographer about the location and their suggestions about colors/patterns that may match well with the environment.
Family sessions are some of my favorite times to make memories with my kids so have fun with it and don’t get too stressed about how the photos will turn out!
Related Post: tips to taking the perfect family vacation photos
Family Photoshoot Outfits for Mom:
When it comes to choosing an outfit for myself, I like to opt for something easy and something comfortable.
Typically a pretty, flowy dress is a great choice, but I also love things like rompers and matching sets that take the guesswork out of putting separates together that look cohesive.
It’s a great idea when you don’t have much time to put together looks for everyone in the family!
Look for cotton or linen fabrics to wear for your summer family pictures so that nobody will get overheated or uncomfortable if the weather gets too hot.
Here are some cute finds that I would totally wear for a summer family photo session – they are all from Target and Amazon and are insanely affordable as well as stylish.
As a mom, I know how the pressure to get the whole family dressed and looking nice falls on us!
If you are worried about sitting or certain angles that you don’t find flattering on your body, I recommend opting for flowy dresses and softer tones as they are more forgiving in photos and flattering on everyone!
Also, don’t stress too much. Don’t worry about wearing high heels if it’s not something you normally wear, make sure that you and your family feel comfortable as that is what will make sure the photos turn out great and that your family will have a great time during the shoot!
Family Photo Outfits for Dad:
Most men tend to gravitate towards simple, staple pieces in their wardrobe, especially when it comes to a family photoshoot outfit.
The simpler the better in my opinion, and you cannot go wrong with a nice button down or just crisp t-shirt or a white shirt. Pair with a great pair of pants or shorts and it’s the perfect outfit for dads.
When it comes to matching, especially if you are doing a color scheme or matching print, I highly suggest finding a shirt to fit the theme and keeping the bottoms simple.
Family Photoshoot Outfits for Girls:
My girls LOVE to wear dresses all year round so I typically opt for an easy floral print dress or cute romper for them as well for our family photoshoots.
This way I know they will be comfortable and we don’t have to deal with matching a bunch of different outfit pieces for everyone.
Floral patterns are always great for the summer. You could do brighter colors or neutral colors or even neon colors! The pattern and colors just work well with the warmer weather.
I love to find cute maxi dresses for them or even breathable rompers that they will wear all summer long, even after the family photo sessions.
Here are some cute options for older girls as well as toddlers! You can shop these outfits below:
family photo outfit ideas for Boys:
Again, when it comes to boys keep it simple. Wardrobe staples that are comfortable and that you don’t have to make a big fuss over.
I find when my kids are comfortable in what they are wearing, the photos come out so much better as they are just natural and candid instead of feeling really stiff and forced.
For boys I think it’s great to grab a nice button down, henley or polo and a nice pair of shorts/pants. Find colors that are cohesive with the theme and you are set.
I wanted to provide some ideas for older boys as well as toddlers! You can shop these outfits below:
Since it’s easiest to take photos in nice weather, summer is a popular time to plan out your family pictures and especially great if you are planning beach sessions.
The important thing to remember is that everyone is comfortable and having fun! Stick with your personal style, don’t try to copy something out of a magazine if it’s not something you would normally do.
Your family photographer will also appreciate it as it will be easier for them to capture your family as they are.
Need more family photo outfit ideas? Don’t miss this post!
