We are a family of beach lovers! We’ve hit up the Gold Coast three times this year alone – it’s practically our second home! Even my little three-year-old, who’s a bit wary of the waves, can’t resist running around in the sand like a little beach explorer. He runs around like there’s no tomorrow, building sand castles and volcanos.
We’re thinking of getting a family beach photoshoot to freeze these precious moments. So now, I find myself asking, “What on earth should my whole family wear for that perfect beach family photoshoot?” Trust me, it’s not as easy as it sounds.
As a mom, whenever we go on a vacation, I take charge of planning our outfits. We stick to a color scheme, and luckily my son is still at that sweet age where he still thinks Mom knows best, so that helps. We usually go for different shades of the same color, keeping it simple with solid colors and steering clear of big logos and prints.
Whether you’re getting a professional photographer or snapping pics with your own trusty tripod, finding the perfect beach outfits is a whole adventure in itself. Is anyone else in the same boat? Let’s share tips and tricks for your beach family photoshoot outfits, and how to dress your crew for a day of sun, sea, and unforgettable memories!
One of the key elements to consider when planning your family’s beach photoshoot outfits is the color palette. Selecting the right color scheme for your family’s outfits can significantly enhance the overall aesthetic of your beach photos. Here are 10 color schemes that work exceptionally well for family beach pictures :
a. Nautical Blues and Whites:
Embrace the classic look with a nautical theme with navy blues and crisp whites. This timeless combination exudes a fresh and clean vibe, perfect for beach settings. Blue and white stripes, chambray, and linen fabrics are great choices for a cohesive look.
b. Coral and Aqua Tones:
Capture the essence of the beach by incorporating coral and aqua tones. These shades mimic the colors of the sea and coral reefs, creating a vibrant and visually appealing ensemble. Mix and match outfits with these tones for a playful and tropical vibe.
c. Pastel Palette:
Soft pastel shades like blush pink, mint green, and sky blue evoke a sense of serenity and tranquility. This color scheme complements the natural beach surroundings, making it ideal for a relaxed and dreamy family photoshoot.
d. Sunset Hues:
Embrace the warm and rich tones of a beach sunset with outfits in shades of orange, pink, and gold. These colors not only create a stunning contrast against the beach backdrop but also add a touch of warmth to your family photos.
e. Khaki and White:
For a timeless and elegant look, consider khaki and white outfits. Khaki shorts or pants paired with white shirts or white dresses create a sophisticated and cohesive appearance. This combination is versatile and works well for both casual and formal beach photoshoots.
f. Tropical Prints:
Infuse a touch of the tropics into your photoshoot with vibrant palm or floral prints. Tropical patterns add a fun and lively element to your family’s outfits, creating a lively and visually interesting composition against the beach setting.
g. Denim and Sand:
Create a laid-back and casual vibe with denim paired with sandy beige or tan colors. Blue jeans or shorts, combined with neutral tops like white t-shirts, provide a relaxed yet polished look that suits the casual atmosphere of a beach photoshoot.
h. Monochrome Magic:
Opt for a chic and sophisticated monochrome theme with varying shades of a single color. Whether it’s all shades of blue, green, or gray, a monochrome palette adds a modern and polished touch to your family’s beach outfits.
i. White on White:
Embrace the simplicity and elegance of an all-white ensemble. White outfits against the backdrop of the beach create a timeless and ethereal look, emphasizing the purity of the moment captured in your family photos.
j. Beachy Neutrals:
Choose neutral tones like beige, sand, and soft grays for a beachy and understated aesthetic. Neutral colors provide a timeless backdrop that allows the natural beauty of the beach to take center stage in your family photos.
tip# 2: Coordinated, Not Matching
Beyond color schemes, there are essential considerations to keep in mind when selecting outfits for family beach portraits:
Gone are the days of perfectly matching outfits for family photoshoots. The trend now is to coordinate colors and styles, allowing each family member to express their individuality while maintaining a cohesive look. This approach creates visually interesting photographs that capture the essence of each family member’s personality.
Consider a theme or a specific color scheme and let everyone choose their outfits within those parameters. This could mean different shades of blue for the young kids, while the parents incorporate complementary tones like coral or soft pastels. By coordinating rather than matching, you achieve a more modern and visually appealing result.
TIP # 3: PRACTICAL AND COMFORTABLE ATTIRE
While style is important, practicality and comfort should not be overlooked, especially for a beach photoshoot. Ensure that everyone’s outfits are comfortable and allow for easy movement. Beach photoshoots often involve walking on sand, so lightweight fabrics and comfortable footwear are key. For kids, consider outfits that allow them to move freely and explore the beach without restrictions. Flowy dresses for little girls and comfortable shorts or lightweight pants for boys are excellent choices. Adults can opt for loose-fitting clothing that not only looks stylish but also allows for easy movement and comfort during the shoot.
tip # 4: Incorporating Different Textures and Patterns
To add visual interest to your family photos, consider incorporating textures and subtle patterns into your beach photoshoot outfits. Textured fabrics like lace, crochet, or seersucker can add depth and dimension to the photos, especially when captured in the soft beach light.
For patterns, choose subtle prints that won’t distract from the natural beauty of the beach. Nautical stripes, small florals, or simple geometric patterns can add a touch of sophistication without overwhelming the visual appeal of the surroundings. Mixing textures and patterns within the coordinated color scheme adds a layer of complexity to the overall aesthetic, making your family photoshoot truly unique. Steer clear of overly busy patterns that may distract from the natural beauty of the beach. Opt for simple prints or solid colors that complement the surroundings.
tip # 5: Accessorize Thoughtfully:
Accessories can elevate your family’s beach outfits. Consider hats, sunglasses, or beach-inspired jewelry to add a touch of personality and style. You can also add beach bags and blankets too.
tip # 6 Styling for your perfect family photo outfits by the Beach
Once you’ve chosen the color scheme and considered practical aspects, here are some styling tips to enhance the overall look of your beach family pictures:
a. Flowy Fabrics: Choose flowy fabrics like chiffon, linen, or cotton for a breezy and relaxed look. Flowy dresses, skirts, and shirts add movement to your photos, creating dynamic and visually appealing images.
b. Texture and Layers: Incorporate texture and layers to add depth to your family’s outfits. Lightweight cardigans, scarves, or textured fabrics can provide visual interest without being overpowering.
c. Beach-Friendly Footwear: Opt for practical yet stylish footwear suitable for the beach environment. Sandals, espadrilles, or barefoot options can all work depending on the overall style and formality of your photoshoot.
d. Hair and Makeup: Keep hair and makeup natural and beach-appropriate. Loose waves, braids, or tousled hair complement the laid-back atmosphere of a beach photoshoot. For makeup, choose a light and natural look to enhance your family’s features without appearing overly done.
tip # 7 Final Touches and Pre-Photoshoot Preparations
As the day of your family photo session approaches, consider these final touches to ensure everything goes smoothly:
a. Trial Run: Have a trial run with the outfit choices to make sure everyone feels comfortable and confident. This can also help you identify any potential issues with clothing choices or accessories.
b. Coordinate with the Photographer: Communicate with your family photographer about the chosen color scheme and any specific requests you may have. Collaborating with the photographer ensures they understand your vision for the photoshoot.
c. Pack Essentials: Pack essentials such as sunscreen, water, and any touch-up items you might need during the photoshoot. Being prepared will allow you to focus on creating beautiful memories with your family.
final thoughts on beach family photoshoot outfits
Selecting the right family beach photo outfits is an exciting part of preparing for a memorable day by the sea. Whether you’re drawn to the tranquil blues, coordinating styles, practical comfort, or textured patterns, the key is to strike a balance that reflects your family’s personality while complementing the stunning beach backdrop.
As you plan your family beach session, keep these outfit tips in mind to ensure that your clothing choices not only look great in the photos but also make the experience enjoyable for everyone involved. Remember, the most important thing is to capture the love, joy, and connection within your family against the breathtaking canvas of the beach.
I’d love to hear about your beach family photoshoot experiences and the outfits you chose. Share your stories and any additional tips in the comments below.
Have you had a beach family photoshoot before? What outfits did you choose, and how did it enhance your overall experience? Share your thoughts, tips, or questions in the comments section below. We’re excited to hear from you and create a community of families sharing their beach photoshoot stories!
