What to Wear for Summer Photos (Without Overthinking It)


Let’s be honest—picking outfits for your photo session can feel like a mini crisis.

But it doesn’t have to be. The truth is, you don’t need matching outfits or a perfectly coordinated Pinterest board. You just need colours that feel like you—easy, effortless, and a little sun-kissed.

So if you’ve booked a beach mini or a golden summer session with me (yay!), here’s some outfit inspiration to help you set the vibe—without spiraling into an online shopping rabbit hole.

☀️ 90s Summer Vibes

Think: That dreamy, retro childhood summer feeling.

Soft yellows, faded pinks, gentle purples, white cotton tees, maybe a bucket hat if you're feeling bold.

These tones feel fun without being loud, like melted popsicles and beach towels drying in the sun. Great for: solo maternity sessions, motherhood minis, or little kids running wild.


Colour combos to try:

  • Faded yellow + soft denim
  • Blush pink + white + dusty lilac
  • Lavender gingham + neutrals


Bonus: These tones photograph beautifully in golden light.

🌿 Summer Greens

This palette is for the earthy souls who feel most at home barefoot in a field or digging in the garden with their toddler.

Think sage, olive, pistachio, soft eucalyptus. Layered with light beige or ivory, these tones feel grounded but still fresh.


Colour combos to try:

  • Sage green + oatmeal + white
  • Olive + tan linen
  • Pistachio + warm beige + barefoot babies


Pair this with a beach backdrop or a tree-lined trail and the tones will feel almost painted in.

🤍 The Basics (But Never Boring)

Let’s hear it for the MVPs: beige, cream, denim, white, light grey. These are your building blocks. You can style a whole family session with just these shades and it’ll look soft, timeless, and cohesive—without anyone matching.


Colour combos to try:

  • Soft denim + white tee + bare feet
  • Cream dress + baby in a neutral knit onesie
  • Light grey + beige + faded blue


It’s simple, easy, and it never dates. A classic for a reason.

🍓 A Pop of Red (Trust Me)

This one’s for the bold hearts who still want to keep it soft and nostalgic.

Pair a cherry red or rust accent with blush, dusty pink, and your usual neutrals for a pop that pops, but still feels warm and film-like.


Colour combos to try:

  • Blush + rust + cream
  • Red gingham dress + baby in beige
  • Soft pink + warm neutral + a tiny red hair bow or detail


Red is unexpected in summer photos—and it totally works. Especially with grainy film edits and sunset light. Just a hint will do the trick.


A Few Gentle Tips:

  • Avoid neon (unless you're documenting a rave).
  • Mix textures—cotton, linen, knit, denim—over mixing too many colours.
  • Dress for movement: Flowy skirts, oversized button-ups, loose cotton. They photograph beautifully.
  • And lastly, don’t stress. Most of the time, the best outfits are already in your closet.


You don’t need to overthink this. Pick colours you love, go for soft and breezy over stiff and matchy, and trust that I’ll guide you the rest of the way.

If you’re unsure, send me a photo of what you’re thinking. I’m happy to help you feel confident and comfy before you step in front of the lens.


Now go enjoy the sun, and I’ll see you at golden hour. ☀️