30A PHOTOGRAPHER | FAMILY PORTRAITS | BLUE MOUNTAIN BEACH
5 Tips for choosing Wardrobe for your Beach Family Photo Session
As soon as you schedule your 30A Beach Vacation, the very next step is to plan your Family Photo Session. We photograph over 100 sunrise/sunset beach sessions each year and the number one question asked is... What should we wear for our family beach photo session. Every family member has a different idea on what they want to wear, planning wardrobe for multiple family member or even an extended family session can be a daunting task.
That's where I come in!
While I love the feel of my Nikon camera in my hands and to hear that shutter click when I capture that perfect moment, I also love to help families achieve a luxurious and timeless portrait that they will cherish for a lifetime and pass down from generation to generation.
After booking your photo session with Melonie Marie Photography, we will schedule a personal consult with you to discuss your photo style preferences (ie: formal, classic, casual). After we determine your photo style, we can then start planning wardrobe options for each family member. To get you started on the process, keep scrolling to view 5 tips to dressing for success in your beach family portrait session.
Tip #1: Coordinate—but don’t be matchy/matchy
In a family photo session, let the matriarch of the family choose her/his outfit first, then make sure your outfits complement not only theirs, but one another’s. Choose a consistent color palette (which does not mean the same color). If someone is wearing a bold pattern, dress the rest of the group in more solids, but be sure each carries one or more colors from the “star” outfit for consistency.
Tip #2: Accessorize!
Jewelry, scarves, hats, bows, bands…it all adds a fun twist to an otherwise “standard” look. Accessories are also a great way to keep hair in place as the beach is always windy. For example, if Mom is wearing a bright pattern with lavender, pink and gray, little sis can rock a a pink headband while Dad can choose a lavender button down and big brother with a gray belt.
Rule #3: Try for Texture
Layers and textures and can really add depth to your photos. Look for clothes and accessories with rich, simple detailing—lace, ruffles, ribbons, etc—or layer pieces to add dimension and texture. Texture is especially important if you want a lot of black and white shots, which naturally need more visual depth and detail than color images. Also, because you’ll want to keep the pace going during your session, layering is a great way to make quick, convenient outfit changes—pull off the sweater, slip on the vest and you’ve got a whole new look!
Add a pop of color! Grandma choose a perfect pale green to add just a little bit of color. Note: Please be sure to wear colors that will compliment the amazing sunset or sunrise and not colors that will compete with the sky.
Rule #4: Dress Kids for Comfort & Movement
Kids naturally run, skip, dance and jump around during photo sessions—they’re kids! To avoid unnecessary aggravation, let them be comfortable in the clothes and opt for apparel that accentuates their natural energy. Skirts, fedoras, scarves, and button downs allow for natural movement, so when the kids start getting wild, their clothes will look even better.
Rule #5: Be Timeless
You’ll have these pictures for generations - don’t date yourself! Choose classic, timeless pieces, or even vintage apparel and accessories. Opt for the latest trends and you may feel otherwise about that amazing outfit in a few years (or even a few months) from now.
Top Beach Family Wardrobe Styles:
melonie marie photography (850) 460-4437