1. COORDINATE, DON’T MATCH
The days of everyone wearing white shirts and blue jeans are long gone (unless you are a synchronized swimming team). Instead, choose two or three main colors- mix complementary tones such as blues, creams, and olive green. For women, flowy dresses, blouses, and pants are best. Men should wear light shirts with khakis or neutral slacks. Complementary colors create cohesion while allowing each person to express his or her own style.
2. AVOID LOGOS AND DISTRACTING PATTERNS
Clothing with large logos, loud graphics, busy prints, or cartoon characters (like sports logos, Captain America or Sponge Bob), distracts from your family and the emotion of the photos. To keep attention on your faces, choose solid colors, soft textures, and simple patterns like thin stripes or gentle florals.
3. THINK CLASSY, NOT TRENDY
You want to look back at these photos in ten years and say, “We looked great!”, not “What were we thinking?!”. While trends can be fun, timeless pieces tend to photograph better. Clean lines, soft fabrics, and neutral or muted tones usually age beautifully.
4. DRESS FOR THE LOCATION AND SEASON
For beach family sessions, think breezy sundresses, rolled-up linen pants, and soft light colors that reflect the coastal theme. Also, be mindful of the weather and temperature. Overheated toddlers (and adults in our hundred-degree Florida summer) can quickly turn a fun session into a stressful one. So plan your outfits with comfort in mind.
5. LAYERS AND ACCESSORIES ADD TEXTURE
Adding dimension to your outfits can elevate your entire family photo session. (a little goes a long way). The goal is to look stylish and comfortable, not like you’re walking down the Red Carpet. For beach or outdoor family photography sessions, accessories like a sunhat, a long necklace, or a textured blanket to sit on can bring in an extra level of detail and style.
6. LEAVE PHONES, SUNGLASSES, AND OTHER DISTRACTIONS
No one wants to see a phone sticking out of the pocket in a professional family portrait. The same goes for sunglasses on heads, hair ties on wrists, and car keys in back pockets. Before walking onto the beach, do a quick check and leave anything unnecessary in your car or purse. This includes smart watches, wallets, and cell phone cameras (You’ve hired a professional -ME- so you can fully enjoy the experience without worrying about documenting it yourself).
7. LADIES, CONSIDER SLEEVES AND DRESSES THAT FLATTER
Tops and dresses with sleeves tend to be more flattering in photos, especially at the beach, where there’s a lot of natural light. This is a small tip that makes a HUGE difference, especially if you want to avoid looking like you’ve been in a wrestling match with your tan lines. Bare shoulders draw the eye away from the face, and tan lines from swimsuits are more noticeable – and distracting – in sleeveless outfits.
8. AVOID LOTIONS BEFORE YOUR BEACH PHOTO SESSION
While moisturized skin is great, sand and lotion don’t mix well. If you’ve ever tried to wipe off sticky sand from your arms or legs, you know how frustrating it can be. On the day of your beach session, skip the lotion altogether-especially for kids who may be running, sitting or playing in the sand. It will be easier when it’s time to brush off and pose again.
9. FEED THE FAMILY BEFORE THE SESSION
A hangry spouse who just wants to have dinner, or a tired toddler, can turn a fun session into a stressful one. One of the easiest ways to set your family up for success is to eat something before your session. Since family beach sessions typically happen around sunset, which is often close to bedtime for little ones, it’s smart to plan an early dinner or a hearty snack. This way, everyone shows up feeling their best, with plenty of energy to laugh, play, and enjoy the moment.
10. EXPECT SAND AND WIND
We use nature’s elements to our advantage to create stunning images. Outdoor sessions may involve wind, hair in your lip gloss, free exfoliation from the sand, and uncontrollable fabulousness. If that sounds like too much fun, the indoor Mall studio, with ZERO adventure and NO FUN, is always an option!
BONUS TIP
Want the secret to a great family portrait at the beach? It’s not about the perfect pose or expensive outfits. It’s about capturing genuine connections, joyful moments, and a relaxed vibe (the promise of everyone’s favorite ice-cream afterward works wonders).
PLAN YOUR SESSION WITH VIMARIS PHOTOGRAPHY
Now that you know what to wear for your family beach pictures, it’s time to start planning your session with one of the most experienced photographers in the Ponte Vedra and Jacksonville area. At Vimaris Photography, we specialize in creating timeless family portraits that feel effortless, elegant, and are filled with genuine emotion.
We are proud to provide a stress-free photography experience for modern families who value quality, connection, and storytelling. From wardrobe styling to location planning and relaxed posing, our process is tailored to help you look and feel your best.
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- About the Author
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Vimaris Arroyo’s love and joy for photography are apparent in her playful photographs. Her timing and experience behind the lens capture those special candid moments just as her whimsical images give us a moment to reflect and smile. Her love and reverence for the outdoors and connection to people are embedded in her images. Vimaris is originally from Puerto Rico. She lived in Massachusetts for 20 years before moving to Florida. Currently residing in Ponte Vedra Beach Vimaris delights in the lack of snow, and never misses a moment to enjoy the outdoors. Her images beckon us all to get outside!
You can find Vimaris throughout the city of Jacksonville and the beaches enjoying nature and capturing those special moments with her camera.
