Family of four holding hands walking along a sandy beach at sunset with gentle waves and coastal homes in the background.
What do i wear?!

Style Guide

Choosing what to wear doesn't have to be stressful. This guide is filled with simple tips, outfit inspiration, and helpful advice to make planning easy, so you can feel confident, comfortable, and completely yourself during your session.



What to Wear

One of the questions I receive most often is, "What should we wear?"
Family of five posing on a beach at sunset, parents and three children dressed in white and blue outfits.

The good news is that you don't need perfectly matching outfits or expensive new clothes. The best photographs happen when you feel comfortable, confident, and like yourself.


My goal is to create timeless images that focus on your connections—not your clothing.


Here are a few simple tips to help you look your best.

STEP 01

 

Start with One Outfit

Rather than trying to coordinate everyone at once, choose one outfit you absolutely love first.


Once you have your favorite look, build everyone else's outfits around it using complementary colors and textures.


This creates a balanced look that feels effortless instead of overly planned.

STEP 02

 

Coordinate — Don't Match

Instead of everyone wearing the exact same color, choose a color palette that works together.



Think:

  • Cream
  • White
  • Beige
  • Soft blues
  • Sage green
  • Dusty rose
  • Light denim
  • Soft gray
  • Earth tones


Different shades and textures create depth while keeping the focus on your family.

STEP 03

 

Colors That Photograph Beautifully

Soft, neutral colors photograph wonderfully in almost every location.


Some favorites include:

  • Cream
  • Ivory
  • White
  • Tan
  • Khaki
  • Sage
  • Olive
  • Dusty Blue
  • Navy
  • Soft Pink
  • Rust
  • Light Brown


Don't be afraid to include a little color—it simply helps when the colors work together.

STEP 04

 

What to Avoid

A few things can become distracting in photographs.


Whenever possible, avoid:

  • Neon colors
  • Large logos
  • Busy graphics
  • Bright athletic clothing
  • Tiny stripes or busy patterns
  • Hats that shade your face (unless they're part of the look)


Keeping clothing simple allows the attention to stay where it belongs—on you.

Dress for the Location

Every location has its own personality.
Family in white outfits embracing on a beach at sunset with children playing in the waves around them.

Beach

Soft neutrals, flowing dresses, linen shirts, light fabrics, bare feet or simple sandals all photograph beautifully against the sand and ocean.


Live Oaks

Earth tones, rich greens, creams, rust, navy, and layered textures work especially well beneath the beautiful oak canopy.


Pitt Street Bridge

This location pairs beautifully with coastal-inspired outfits, soft blues, whites, creams, and casual dressy clothing.


Downtown Charleston

A slightly dressier outfit works wonderfully here. Flowy dresses, button-down shirts, and classic styles complement the historic architecture beautifully.

Details

 

Shoes Matter

 

Shoes are often forgotten until the last minute.


Choose shoes that complement your outfit rather than draw attention.


Simple sandals, neutral flats, boots, or clean dress shoes photograph beautifully.


For beach sessions, many families choose to go barefoot.

 

 

Add Texture

 

Texture photographs beautifully.


Consider:

  • Linen
  • Cotton
  • Knit sweaters
  • Flowy dresses
  • Layers
  • Light jackets
  • Cardigans


Texture adds depth without needing bold colors or patterns.

 

 

Hair & Makeup

 

Professional hair and makeup are never required—but if you've been thinking about treating yourself, this is a wonderful occasion.


Keep hairstyles comfortable and natural. Choose makeup that still looks like you.


The goal is simply to feel confident.

 

 

Children

 

Comfort is everything.


If children are comfortable, they're usually happier—and happy kids create natural smiles.


Avoid stiff clothing that makes it difficult to play, cuddle, or explore.


Bring a backup outfit for little ones just in case.

 

What to Bring

You don't need much, just a few things is nice!
Family of three enjoying a beach walk at sunset, parents lifting child in white outfits on sandy shore.

Consider bringing:


  1. Water
  2. Small snacks for young children
  3. Baby wipes
  4. Hair ties
  5. A brush
  6. A light towel for beach sessions


Leave phones, keys, sunglasses, and bulky items in the car whenever possible so pockets stay empty during your session.

Most Importantly...


  1. Don't stress.
  2. You don't need perfect outfits or perfectly behaved children.
  3. Your session is meant to be relaxed, fun, and natural.
  4. I'll guide you every step of the way, help with posing when needed, and create a comfortable experience so you can simply enjoy your time together.
  5. The best photographs aren't created because everything is perfect.
  6. They're created because the people in them are simply enjoying the moment.

 

Come dressed, ready and I will take care of the rest!