Wondering what to wear for your summer family photos? You're not alone! One of the most common questions I get from clients is how to choose outfits that look beautiful on camera and feel natural for your family. The good news? You don’t need to stress or buy all new clothes. With just a few simple tips (and a little planning), you can pull together a look that photographs beautifully and still feels like you. Whether you’re going barefoot in the backyard, chasing littles through a wildflower field, or prepping for an upcoming studio session, this list of outfit ideas for summer family photos has you covered!
What to Wear for Summer Family Photos
Earthy Green and neutral outfit inspiration
Women’s Sundress | Women’s Sandals | Men’s Crew Neck Tee | Men’s Jeans | Romper | Bow | Boy’s Henley | Boy’s Shorts | Toddler Dress | Toddler Sandals | Gauze Overalls
I love how easy and pulled-together this outfit combo feels! The soft, muted tones work so beautifully together without looking too matchy-matchy, and there’s a nice mix of texture and pattern to keep things interesting. Mom’s minty green dress adds such a pretty pop (and the flowy fabric always looks great in photos), while dad keeps it classic and simple in a neutral tee and jeans. For the kids, we mixed in playful details—like the little floral dress and those adorable overalls—that complement the palette without stealing the show. It’s light, relaxed, and just really works for a summer family session.
CLASSIC BLUE AND WHITE FAMILY PICTURE OUTFITS
Women’s Dress | Men’s Polo | Men’s Chino Pants | Boy’s Button Down Shirt | Boy’s Shorts | Toddler Dress | Toddler Shoes | Eyelet Dress | Bow
This look is giving fresh, summery, and classic in the best way. I love the way the soft blues and whites feel clean and airy without being too dressy or stiff. Mom’s tiered dress with the puff sleeves is such a statement piece—it adds just the right amount of drama while still feeling playful and pretty. Dad’s neutral polo and chinos balance it all out perfectly. And for the kids? Light chambray, eyelet details, and sweet little accessories like a bow or sandals pull everything together without looking overly coordinated. It’s simple, timeless, and so easy for summer family photos!
A Soft Summer Color Palette FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY
Women’s Dress | Women’s Heeled Sandals | Men’s Henley | Men’s Jeans | Toddler Dress | Toddler Sandals | Girl’s Hair Bow | Boy’s White Shirt | Boy’s Khaki Shorts | Boy’s Green Shirt | Boy’s Cream Shorts
If you’re going for a warm, earthy vibe, this color palette is a great choice. The rose-colored dress gives mom a soft pop of color without being too bold, and it ties in so nicely with the subtle greens and tans in the rest of the family’s outfits. Dad’s tee and jeans outfit is simple and classic, and the kids look sweet but still comfy—which is key for keeping everyone happy during photos. I love that the colors blend together so naturally without feeling overly coordinated. This look would be gorgeous in a field, garden, or even just your own backyard.
Women’s Dress | Women’s Block Heel Sandal | Men’s Henley Shirt | Men’s Chinos | Toddler Floral Dress | Bow | Boy’s Polo | Boy’s Shorts | Infant Matching Set | Boy’s Striped Button Down | Boy’s Shorts
If you're planning a family photo session and want something that will stand the test of time, you can’t go wrong with a classic color palette like navy, white, and tan! It’s clean, cohesive, and works beautifully whether you’re doing studio shots, capturing golden hour at the beach, or snapping an updated picture on your front porch. A white dress on mom feels fresh and timeless, dad looks polished in a navy polo and khakis, and the kids coordinate perfectly without looking too matchy-matchy. These colors never compete with the background, and they won’t feel dated when you look back at the photos years from now. It's the kind of combination that always looks pulled-together—without trying too hard.
Women’s Floral Block Print Dress | Men’s Chambray Shirt | Men’s Dark Wash Jeans | Toddler Dress | Girl’s Romper | Bows | Boy’s Polo | Boy’s Jeans | Infant Gauze Matching Set
This pastel outfit combo is soft, fresh, and effortlessly pretty for spring or summer family photos! Mom’s white and pink floral dress has that sweet, timeless feel with a fun pattern without being over the top. Dad keeps it from looking too dressy in jeans and a chambray shirt. The kids in blush pink, white, and light blue pull it all together in the most adorable way. These colors look amazing in both natural and studio lighting and would be perfect for photos in a blooming garden or at the park. It’s one of those looks that feels relaxed, but still special—and the photos will be just as beautiful years from now as they are today!
I hope these outfit ideas help take the guesswork out of planning your next family photo session. Whether you're heading to the studio, the park, or your own backyard, these looks are sure to shine in photos. I can’t wait to see what you put together—and I look forward to seeing you at our next session!