Summer sessions in and around Portland are some of my favorites. The days are long, the light turns golden in the evenings, and the landscape is full of soft greens and sun-warmed tones. Whether we’re in a field of tall grass, beside the river, or walking through one of my favorite natural areas, summer has a way of making everything feel a little slower and more present.
One of the most common questions I hear from families this time of year is: “What should we wear?” The good news is you don’t need a closet full of new clothes or anything fancy. With a few thoughtful choices, we can create a look that feels natural, timeless, and true to you.
Table of Contents
- Light and Airy Always Wins
- Keep It Comfortable (and Cool)
- Barefoot Is Always Welcome
- Coordinate, Don’t Match
- Use the Client Wardrobe
- Final Thoughts
Here are my favorite tips for styling your family for a summer photo session.
1. Light and Airy Always Wins
Summer light is soft and glowy, especially in the hour before sunset. To complement that warm light, I recommend leaning into lighter tones, like cream, soft beige, pale blue, muted sage, or blush. These tones keep your images feeling fresh, clean, and focused on your connection.
Avoid harsh blacks, bold neons, or loud patterns, which can compete with both the setting and your family’s energy. Simplicity lets the emotion shine.
2. Keep It Comfortable (and Cool)
The weather in Portland can get surprisingly warm in the summer, especially in the late afternoon when we typically schedule sessions. Select breathable materials such as cotton, linen, or soft gauze. These are materials that move gently in the breeze and feel good on your skin.
For moms, a flowy dress or relaxed skirt with a simple top is always a beautiful choice. A linen shirt or short-sleeved button-down shirt looks great on dads when worn with neutral shorts or pants. And for little ones? Keep it soft, keep it simple, and avoid anything too stiff or itchy.
3. Barefoot Is Always Welcome
Some of my favorite summer portraits happen when kids are barefoot, running through the grass, totally free. If the setting allows, feel free to skip shoes altogether, especially for babies and toddlers. Bare feet feel natural and grounded. Let your little ones move more comfortably.
4. Coordinate, Don’t Match
Rather than having everyone wear the same color, aim for a soft, cohesive palette that flows together. Build on your favorite outfit, such as your dress, to start. You can pull in complementary tones, gentle patterns (like subtle florals or large stripes (stay away from really tiny stripes as they create an optical illusion on camera and don’t photograph well), and layers that add variety without being distracting.
If you’re not sure where to start, I’ll help guide you through this process step by step.
5. Use the Client Wardrobe
All families who schedule a session with me have access to my carefully chosen client wardrobe. I’ve hand-selected pieces for women, babies, and young children that photograph beautifully in natural light and soft summer settings. If you don’t feel like shopping or second-guessing your choices, we’ll find something together that fits your style and makes you feel good.
My goal is to take the pressure off of getting dressed so you can show up and simply be present with your family.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, your session isn’t about the clothes but about connection. The giggles, the cuddles, the quiet glances. But when you feel comfortable and confident in what you’re wearing, that connection comes through even more clearly.
If you’re planning a summer family session and wondering what to wear, I’m here to help. Reach out here and we’ll create a look (and an experience) that feels completely you.
Summer Outdoor Family Photos | Portland, OR
Outdoor Family Photography Session | SE Portland, Oregon
Outdoor Portland Family Photos
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