What to Wear for Family Photos This Summer

Summer is one of the best times for family photos — golden sunsets, warm evenings, and beautiful outdoor locations around Chilliwack and the Fraser Valley. One of the biggest questions I get before a session is: “What should we wear?”

Here are my favourite tips to help your family look amazing and feel comfortable during your summer photoshoot.

👗 1. Choose Light, Airy Colours

Summer light looks beautiful with soft, natural tones. Think:

• Cream, beige, tan

• Soft blues

• Sage or olive green

• Blush or dusty rose

• Light grey

These colours photograph beautifully and keep the focus on your family, not the outfits.

🎨 2. Coordinate — Don’t Match

Gone are the days of everyone wearing the same white shirt. Instead, pick 2–3 colours that work well together and mix them throughout the outfits.

Example summer palette: Cream + Sage + Denim or Blush + Tan + Light Grey

This creates a cohesive look without feeling too “matchy.”

👕 3. Keep It Comfortable

If you’re uncomfortable, it will show in the photos. Choose breathable fabrics like:

• Linen

• Cotton

• Light knits

Avoid anything too tight, stiff, or scratchy — especially for kids.

🌿 4. Add Texture, Not Patterns

Textures photograph beautifully in summer light:

• Lace

• Linen

• Knits

• Embroidery

Small patterns are okay, but avoid:

• Neon colours

• Large logos

• Busy prints

• Super bold stripes

These can distract from your faces.

👗 5. Dresses Are Magic for Moms

Flowy dresses look incredible in movement and flatter every body type. They also add softness and elegance to family photos.

Great options include:

• Maxi dresses

• Midi dresses

• Wrap dresses

• Linen or cotton summer dresses

Stick to solid colours or subtle prints.

👶 6. Dress Kids in Simple, Soft Pieces

For little ones:

• Rompers

• Overalls

• Soft cotton sets

• Barefoot (if the location allows!)

Avoid stiff collars or anything they’ll want to pull off.

🧢 7. Skip Hats & Sunglasses

They cast shadows and hide faces — and you want to see everyone’s expressions.

🌅 8. Think About the Location

If your session is at:

A field: warm neutrals look amazing. The Sardis river: soft blues and greys blend beautifully. Cultus Lake: light, beachy tones work best

Your outfits should complement the environment, not compete with it.

📸 Final Tip: Lay Everything Out Together

Before your session, put all the outfits on the bed and take a quick photo. If the colours flow nicely together, you’re good to go!

💛 Need Help Choosing Outfits?

I help all my families plan their wardrobe so they feel confident and look amazing in their photos. If you’d like summer family or maternity photos in Chilliwack or the Fraser Valley, feel free to reach out — I’d love to help you create something beautiful this season.