Hello, and thanks for stopping by my blog! My name is Alex, and I am the founder and lead photographer at Alex Gordias Photography. As a Boston Wedding Photographer, my team and I travel frequently between Cape Cod, Boston, and all over New England to capture family memories. Because I am also a Cape Cod family photographer, this landscape is always in my heart. Let’s explore what to Wear for Family Photos at the Beach
I love photographing at the beach with a beautiful backdrop that the whole family can enjoy. Everything changes so rapidly: children grow up, and parents get older. Imagine having these photographs from a time when you were all together on the sand, having fun and laughing. Capturing those precious memories is what I do.
The beach is a wonderful place where everyone looks great in coastal attire, but picking the right outfits isn’t as simple as throwing on a t-shirt and shorts. So, what should you wear for family photos at the beach?
The Best Time for Beach Photos
Timing is everything. Based on my experience, the perfect time for a beach session is during the Golden Hour—either early in the morning or right before sunset. This ensures the sun isn’t too harsh and the light is soft and flattering rather than burning.
Photo Outfit Ideas
First, let’s talk about what to avoid: outfits that are too beachy. It is best to keep the “beach” in mind without looking like you’re heading for a swim. This means avoiding bathing suits and bulky beach towels. Straw hats, sunglasses, and sandals are great additions, but try to dress as you would for a nice summer evening out.
- Beachy Everyday: Start with your favorite shorts or chinos and a high-quality t-shirt or linen button-down. Add a straw hat for a classic touch.
- Elevated Summer Style: For women, a flowy maxi dress or a sundress with spaghetti straps works beautifully. If the coastal breeze is chilly, consider textured knits or even over-the-knee boots for a high-fashion look.
- Laid-back Denim: Jeans paired with a loose, light-colored top provide a relaxed vibe that looks timeless against the dunes.
- Active Coastal: For a more playful “surfer” look, you can tie a t-shirt into a knot or wear stylish activewear, keeping it appropriate for a family gallery.
Aim for elegance and timelessness. Pick one primary neutral color, like white or tan, and build the rest of the family’s palette around it.
Choosing Your Color Palette
Harmony and simplicity are key. Nothing ruins a photo faster than clashing patterns fighting for attention. Avoid colors that are neon-bright or overly dark, as they can affect the skin tones in the final edit. Crispy white is always a sophisticated choice that appears elegant and timeless.
Proven Color Combinations:
- White and Tan
- Navy and White
- Navy and Tan
- Gray and Soft Pink
- Blue and White
- Pink and Blue
Hairstyle Tips for the Coast
The weather on the coast can be unpredictable. Because winds are often strong, I recommend styles like braids or ponytails to keep hair from covering faces during the shoot. If you prefer to wear your hair down, check the forecast—long, flowing hair looks incredible when the breeze is gentle at sunset.
If you have short hair, a little extra styling product can help keep everything in place against the ocean spray. Short styles are often the easiest to manage for easy-going seashore sessions.
Beach Posing and Tips
As your Cape Cod family photographer, I will always guide you through poses to create a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. A typical gallery includes extended family portraits, immediate family groups, individual shots, and plenty of candids.
- Sit Cross-Legged: A great casual look for kids and parents on the sand.
- The Low Angle: Crouching down for an artsy shot captures the scale of the sky and ocean.
- Shoulder-to-Shoulder: A classic lineup that never goes out of style.
- The Beach Walk: Walking hand-in-hand along the shoreline for natural, fluid movement.
- Siblings Back-to-Back: This captures great interaction between children.
- Candid Dynamics: Getting low to capture the family playing or laughing naturally.
- Include the Dog: If you’re bringing your pup, bring treats! I’ll handle the rest to make sure they’re looking at the lens.
I hope this guide helps you feel confident and inspired for your upcoming session. Planning your wardrobe ahead of time will calm your nerves and ensure your final gallery is one you’ll cherish forever.
Your Local Family Photographer — Alex Gordias.
