What do I wear to my summer family session?
The most common question I get asked is: “What do we wear to our session?”
This guide will walk you through my favorite outfit ideas, color palettes, and styling tips for creating beautiful, natural PNW family photos.
I recommend starting with mom’s outfit and building the rest of the family’s wardrobe around it. Choose colors that photograph beautifully in the Pacific Northwest, such as cream, warm whites, beige, soft browns, muted blues, and other earthy tones.
For outdoor family photos in Snohomish County, I especially love earthy, neutral palettes because they pair beautifully with our forests, fields, and natural landscapes. These tones help create images that feel timeless, warm, and connected to the beauty of the PNW.
Textures and subtle patterns (like soft knits, linen, or classic plaids) can add visual interest while still keeping the focus on your family and the connection between you.
Once mom’s outfit is chosen, we can build everyone else’s outfits around those colors. Look for shades that complement her outfit rather than matching exactly.
A helpful tip: walk around your home and notice the colors you naturally gravitate toward. Many families love choosing tones that already complement their home décor — this helps create images that feel cohesive and meaningful when displayed in your space.
What should I avoid wearing?
When planning outfits for your session, I recommend avoiding anything that distracts from the connection and emotion we’re capturing. Large logos, character clothing, neon colors, overly busy patterns, and bright accessories can pull attention away from your family and the story of your images.
I also recommend avoiding everyone wearing the exact same outfit or color. Coordinating tones and textures creates a more natural look while still allowing everyone’s personality to shine.
One small detail that can make a big difference: consider swapping out everyday items like an Apple Watch for a more decorative accessory, such as a meaningful watch, bracelet, or heirloom piece. These little touches photograph beautifully and help your images feel more timeless.
Any clothing materials that photograph better than others?
I love photographing textured knits, cotton, linen and denim. Layering fabrics also adds a beautiful touch to your outfits. Flowy dresses and skirts add movement to the photos and often women are more comfortable in a flowy dress vs a tight fitting outfit. Oversized sweaters or jackets are another great addition.
What colors photograph well for family sessions?
I've studied color theory for over a decade and have carefully selected the colors I find most joyful, flattering, and complementary to both my photography style and the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Below are examples taken directly from my Family and Couples Session Prep Guide to help inspire your wardrobe choices. Even with summer mini and full family sessions, these colors photograph beautifully year around.
What shoes should I wear to my summer session?
Wear shoes that you can comfortable walk around in. If we have a session out in a field or meadow, you're probably not going to wear stilettos because your heels will sink into the ground. Wedges are a great option if you want a little bit of a heel. Chunky heels are beautiful and you can easily take them on and off if you want some barefoot photos. I'll always encourage a Birkenstock! Neutral colored casual tennis shoes are a great option for both men and women.
What should my kids wear to the photo session?
Choose colors that complement one another rather than matching exactly. Staying within a similar color palette creates a cohesive look while allowing each child's personality to shine through. I recommend dressing siblings in coordinating colors with some contrast between their outfits so they don't blend together in photos.
If one of your children has a favorite color or feels especially confident in a certain outfit, start there and build the other outfits around it using complementary tones. The goal is for everyone to feel comfortable, confident, and like themselves while creating a beautiful, balanced look in your images.
Examples:
- Sage green + cream + dusty blue
- Rust + tan + ivory
- Mustard + navy + cream
- Mauve + oatmeal + soft gray
Avoid bright neon colors, large logos, and busy patterns, as these can distract from the connection and emotion in your photos.
Where can I shop locally & online for my photo session?
I love shopping local and supporting other small businesses. Below I will list some of my favorite shops that are within my area (Snohomish County).
Shops in Snohomish:
- Joyworks
- Mimi's Boutique
- One Common
- Sprig Beauty Co.
- Hoity Toity
Thrifting is another great option! I have found so many pieces thrifting. St. Vincent De Paul is a favorite of mine and you can find them throughout Snohomish County.
I do have an Amazon Shopping list for those who prefer to order online that you can find here.
Some brands that I love for comfort and style are Anthropology, Lucky Brand, The Black & White Store, J. Crew and many more.
Client Closet
Lastly, I offer a client closet available for select sessions. If you’re feeling unsure about what to wear, don’t hesitate to ask about my available pieces!
I’ve carefully curated a collection of beautiful, photograph-friendly pieces from brands like Joyfolie, Reclamation Design Company, Baltic Born, Hoity Toity, and more. These pieces were chosen with my editing style, color palettes, and the natural beauty of our PNW scenery in mind.
Client closet availability varies based on session type and sizing, so reach out ahead of time and I’d be happy to help you find the perfect fit!
Here's to a beautiful summer in the PNW!
I hope these summer family photo outfit ideas help take some of the stress out of planning your session. Choosing outfits doesn’t have to be overwhelming — with the right colors, textures, and a little preparation, your family photos can feel effortless and all of you remain comfortable.
If you’re looking for a PNW family photographer for summer mini sessions, I’d love to help you create a beautiful experience from start to finish.
