Dress for success: What to wear to your 30a Family Photo Shoot

As a 30A Family photographer, we photograph 100's of families each year on the beach. Some families choose to wear pastels and soft colors, while others love the feeling of a casually carefree vibe. No matter your preference, please keep these tips in mind when choosing what to wear for your 30A family photo session.

When you book your family photo session with Melonie Marie Photography, we are here every step of the way! We love to help you plan and coordinate the perfect vibe for your family session. Feel free to contact us by phone or text at (850) 460-4437 or by email at meloniemariephotography@gmail.com for more information.

What to Wear: Blue, pink, white

Rule #1: Coordinate—but don’t be matchy/matchy

If you’re shooting with another person, make sure your outfits complement 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.

Rule #2: Accessorize!

Scarves, hats, bows, bands…it all adds a fun twist to an otherwise “standard” look. Accessories are also a great place to coordinate looks. For example, if Mom is wearing a bright pattern with lavender, pink and gray, little brother can rock a pair a gray sneakers while Dad can choose a lavender vest and big sis with a pink headband.

30A Family Portraits

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—embroidery, tweed, 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!

Family Portraits: What To Wear

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 knit sweaters 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.

What To Wear: Family Beach Portraits