By Sun + Salt Photography | Satellite Beach, FL
One of the most common questions I get from families before their session is: "What should we wear?"
It sounds simple, but outfit choices can make or break your photos, and I want yours to look absolutely stunning.
After photographing families all along Florida's East Coast, from Satellite Beach to Melbourne and beyond, I've learned exactly what works and what doesn't at the beach. Here's everything you need to know before your session.
Start With One Person, Then Build Around Them
The easiest way to coordinate outfits is to pick one person first. Usually, mom or the child with the most specific wardrobe and build everyone else's look around that. Choose one outfit you love, pull 2-3 colors from it, and dress everyone else in those tones.
You don't need to match. You need to coordinate.
The Best Colors for Florida Beach Sessions
Florida's beaches have a specific look: soft white sand, bright sky, and lush greenery.
The colors that photograph best in this environment are:
- Warm neutrals: cream, ivory, tan, camel, warm white
- Earthy tones: terracotta, rust, sage green, dusty rose
- Soft blues: denim, powder blue, sky blue
- Muted pastels: soft peach, blush, lavender
These tones complement the natural light and the Florida landscape without competing with it.
What to Avoid
- Bright white: it blows out in direct sunlight and can make skin tones look uneven.
- Neon or very bright colors: they draw the eye away from faces and expressions.
- Busy patterns or large logos: bold prints and large logos can feel visually overwhelming, but subtle patterns like a soft plaid or delicate floral can work beautifully when balanced with solids on everyone else. The key is making sure only one person in the group wears the pattern.
- All matching outfits: when everyone wears the same thing, it can feel stiff; coordinated is always better than identical matching.
What to Wear for Florida's Heat
Let's be real, Florida is hot, especially for a golden hour session. Here's how to stay comfortable and still look beautiful:
- Flowy dresses and skirts photograph beautifully on the beach and keep you cool.
- Linen fabrics are breathable and have a relaxed, beachy texture that looks stunning in photos.
- Light layers like a linen shawl or kimono can add dimension without making you overheat.
- Avoid heavy fabrics like denim jeans for kids; they tend to get uncomfortable fast in the Florida heat.
Tips for Kids' Outfits
Dress kids in something comfortable they can move in. If they're pulling at their clothes, it will show in the photos.
- Neutral rompers, linen shorts, and simple sundresses are my favorites for little ones at the beach.
- Bare feet for kids always look adorable and are completely on-brand for a Florida beach session.
- Bring a backup outfit for young toddlers, just in case.
Accessories That Elevate Your Look
A few simple accessories can take your photos to the next level:
- Simple hair accessories for little girls.
- Delicate jewelry for mom; simple gold jewelry catches the light beautifully.
- Avoid large, distracting accessories that pull focus from faces
When to Shop for Your Outfits
I recommend shopping at least 2-3 weeks before your session so you have time to order, try on, and return if needed. Some of my favorite places to find coordinated family outfits:
Amazon: surprisingly great for coordinated family sets.
Anthropologie: beautiful flowy dresses for mom.
Carter's and H&M Kids: affordable and cute for little ones.
Etsy: great for matching linen sets and custom pieces.
Target: a hidden gem for neutral, coordinated family looks.
A Note on Shoes
For beach sessions, bare feet are almost always the way to go. Sand + shoes = awkward. If you prefer to wear shoes for part of the session, bring simple sandals or white sneakers you can slip off easily.
Still Not Sure? Just Ask Me!
Once you book your session with Sun + Salt Photography, I'm always happy to hop on a quick call or exchange photos over text & email to make sure your family feels confident and prepared. I want you to show up feeling amazing, because that energy translates directly into your photos.
Ready to book your Florida beach session?
Sessions start at $300. Click the contact button below to get in touch and check availability.
Sun + Salt Photography serves Satellite Beach, Melbourne, Cocoa Beach, Indialantic, Palm Bay, Brevard County, and the greater Space Coast area. Available for destination sessions throughout Florida.
