What to Wear for Family Photos (Summer Edition)

Can I let you in on a little secret? The families whose photos look the most effortless usually aren't the ones who spent weeks planning every outfit. They simply chose clothes that felt comfortable, coordinated well together, and let their personalities shine through. That's exactly what I want for every family I photograph.

As a family photographer in OKC, I can assure you that it doesn’t have to be complicated. 

My goal is always for your photos to feel timeless and like your family, and not like you spent weeks stressing over every little detail.

Think Timeless Instead of Trendy

I always encourage families to choose outfits they'll still love years from now.

When your kids are looking through these photos someday, I want them to notice your smiles, your hugs, and the way everyone loved each other, not wonder why everyone was wearing whatever happened to be trending that summer.

Flowy dresses, soft fabrics, linen, simple patterns, and neutral colors always photograph beautifully because they let your family be the focus.

If you're debating between the trendy dress and the classic one...I'd almost always choose the classic.

The Best Colors for Oklahoma Summers

Summer evenings in Oklahoma are honestly some of my favorite sessions. The tall grass, warm sunsets, and all that golden light create such a beautiful backdrop.

Soft, earthy colors tend to work really well in those landscapes.

Some of my favorites are:

• Cream and ivory

• Sage green

• Dusty blue

• Soft blush

• Warm tan

• Light terracotta

• Muted florals

You definitely don't have to match perfectly. In fact, I actually prefer when everyone coordinates instead of matching. A little variety makes your photos feel much more natural.

Moms...Start With Your Outfit

If you only remember one thing from this blog, let it be this.

Choose your outfit first.

I know so many moms immediately start shopping for everyone else and then try to fit themselves in at the end. But you're the one who's usually the hardest to shop for, and you're the one I want feeling the most confident.

When you love what you're wearing, it shows.

You relax, smile more, and you’re not worrying about adjusting your dress every five minutes or wondering if you picked the right outfit.

Once you've found something you love, it's so much easier to coordinate everyone else around it.

Simple Outfit Ideas That Always Work

You don't need everyone in white shirts and jeans. Instead, think about choosing a color palette and letting everyone have their own look within it.

For families of three, I love starting with Mom in a dress she feels amazing in, Dad in a neutral button-down or polo, and little one wearing colors that tie everything together.

For families of four, mixing textures like linen, cotton, or lightweight knits adds so much interest without feeling busy.

And for larger families, don't overthink it. Pick a few complementary colors and spread them throughout everyone's outfits instead of trying to make everyone identical.

A Few Things I'd Skip

There aren't a lot of "rules," but there are a few things that tend to distract from your photos.

I'd avoid:

• Everyone wearing the exact same color.

• Neon colors that reflect onto your skin.

• Large logos or graphics.

• Lots of bold patterns competing with each other.

• Shoes that are uncomfortable.

Especially if we're walking through a field or chasing little ones around during your session, comfortable shoes are worth it.

Need Some Outfit Inspiration?

If staring into your closet has you wondering where to even start, I've got you.

I've put together some of my favorite outfits in my Amazon storefront that photograph beautifully while still being pieces you'll actually wear again.

And if you're still stuck, send me screenshots! Seriously! I love helping families put outfits together, and I'm always happy to give my opinion before your session.

The less you have to stress about what everyone is wearing, the more you can focus on what really matters, which is loving on your people.

And that's what always makes the best photos.

Let's Make It Easy

You don't have to figure it all out on your own. Whether you need help choosing outfits, picking a location, or simply deciding if now is the right time for family photos, I'm always happy to help.

If you're ready to book a session with a family photographer OKC families trust, I'd love to capture your crew just as you are. Get in touch, and let's start planning a session that's relaxed, fun, and completely true to your family.