Style & Prep Guide

 

Style & Prep Guide For Family Beach Sessions


I’m so excited to photograph your family! Preparing outfits for family photos can sometimes feel overwhelming, so my goal is to make this part as easy and stress-free as possible. Think of this guide as inspiration rather than a list of rules.


The goal is to create timeless, natural images that feel like your family while allowing the beautiful beach setting, your connection, and your personalities to shine.

Color Guide:


I love a soft, neutral and earthy color palette. Think: Cream • Ivory • Oatmeal • Beige • Tan • Camel • Brown • Burgundy • Muted Blue • Mauve • Olive


These colors complement the natural tones of the beach beautifully without competing with the scenery.



Coordinate, Don't Match

You don't need everyone wearing the same colors. Instead, choose a palette and let everyone wear different shades and textures within it. I would recommend starting with mom's outfit first.


For example:

Warm & Neutral - Cream + beige + tan + camel + brown

Neutral + Blue - Ivory + oatmeal + beige + denim + muted blue

Earthy - Cream + brown + olive + tan + soft denim

Classic - White + cream + camel + denim + warm gray


The goal is for everyone to look like they belong together without looking identical.


Need More Color Inspiration?

If you're having a hard time deciding which colors work well together, this guide has some beautiful examples of color combinations that photograph beautifully.

Additional Color Inspiration:

5 Color Combinations That Always Photograph

Additional Tips


Think Layers & Texture


One of my favorite things about fall family photos is the opportunity to add layers and texture. Layers create visual interest and also give us options throughout your session.

Think:

  • Cozy sweaters
  • Cardigans
  • Overshirts
  • Vests
  • Knit dresses
  • Linen
  • Corduroy
  • Soft denim
  • Scarves
  • Textured knits


For September and October sessions, a sweater or cardigan can add that beautiful cozy fall feeling without looking overly "fall themed."


What to Avoid

You don't have to follow these rules perfectly, but I generally recommend avoiding:

  • Large logos or graphics
  • Neon colors
  • Extremely bright primary colors
  • Very busy patterns
  • Tiny repeating prints
  • Everyone wearing exactly the same color
  • Outfits that are uncomfortable or difficult to move in


A small floral, stripe, or subtle pattern can absolutely work. The goal is simply to keep the overall look cohesive and timeless.


Shoes Matter Too

Because we'll be at the beach, footwear should be practical and comfortable.


Depending on the season, consider:

  • Bare feet
  • Simple sandals
  • Neutral sneakers
  • Brown or tan boots
  • Simple leather shoes


Shops I love:

Here are some of my favorite go-to shops for timeless, photo-friendly family outfits:

A Few Quick Prep Tips


  • Clean faces and hands
  • Avoid temporary tattoos or stamps on hands/arms if possible
  • Make sure outfits are comfortable and easy to move in. Avoid anything itchy, too tight, or that your child dislikes wearing


What to Bring

A few simple items can help keep everyone comfortable and happy during your session:

  • Chapstick
  • Wipes
  • Hairbrush
  • Extra outfits for little ones if needed
  • Water and Snacks
  • Towels (just in case we decide to splash or play near the water)



A Note About August, September & October


The beach can feel very different depending on when your session takes place.


August: Think lightweight and breathable. Linen, cotton, light dresses, and lightweight layers are perfect.


September: This is one of my favorite times for beach sessions. You can start incorporating sweaters, denim, cardigans, and slightly warmer textures while still keeping things comfortable.


October: Bring the cozy! Sweaters, cardigans, boots, jackets, and layered outfits can create a beautiful fall feel.

What to Expect During Your Session


You don't need to know how to pose and your kids don't need to know how to behave perfectly. I'll guide you through the entire session.


We'll start with a classic family portrait and then move into a mix of natural interactions and different family combinations, mom with the kids, dad with the kids, siblings, individual portraits of the children, and plenty of genuine moments in between. We'll walk, play, cuddle, laugh, and let the kids be themselves.


Some of my favorite photographs happen in the moments between the posed images. My goal is not to create a perfectly posed family. It's to capture your family as you are right now.



The best photos happen in between 

you’re brushing hair out of your daughter’s face 

your kids grabs your hand 

hugging and cuddling

Spinning and tossing little ones

tickling them 

whispering something funny 

letting them be a little wild

running and walking

playing

you’re laughing without thinking about it 



Movement creates connection. Connection creates emotion. Emotion creates the photos you will treasure.


Most Importantly: Don't Stress

Your children don't need to smile on command. They don't need to sit perfectly still. And you don't need to worry if things don't go exactly according to plan. I'll gently guide your family throughout the session and work with your children's personalities and energy. The best photographs happen when everyone feels comfortable enough to simply be themselves.


Not Sure? Just Ask.


Please don't hesitate to ask!


If you're stuck between a few options, send me photos of the outfits you're considering and I'm happy to help you put everything together.


You can even send me a photo of one outfit you already love, and we can build the rest of the family's outfits around it.


My goal is for you to feel confident, comfortable, and excited when you arrive at the beach.


I can't wait to capture your family!