If there is one question I get asked more than any other before a shoot, it’s this: “What on earth do we wear?” It is completely normal to feel a little overwhelmed when styling your family. You want the images to look timeless, but you also want everyone to look like themselves. Because my photography style is all about relaxed, natural connection—capturing wind-swept hair, big laughs, and unscripted moments—your wardrobe should reflect that exact same energy.
Here is my ultimate guide to styling your family for a soulful, down-to-earth photo session on the Sunshine Coast.
1. Comfort and Playfulness Come First
My family sessions, especially those with young children, are heavily play-based. I want to work with your kids, not demand rigid poses from them. This means your outfits need to let you move. Whether we are chasing toddlers down the sand in Coolum or sitting on a blanket, you need to feel comfortable. If an outfit requires constant adjusting, leave it at home.
2. The Sunshine Coast Colour Palette
When we shoot outdoors, we want your clothing to complement our stunning local backdrops, not compete with them.
- Embrace Earthy Tones: Colors pulled straight from nature photograph beautifully. Think rust, terracotta, mustard, olive green, dusty pink, and tan.
- Warm Whites: If you love a crisp look, opt for creamy off-whites, oatmeal, or beige instead of stark, fluorescent white, which can look a bit clinical against the ocean.
- What to Avoid: Steer clear of neon colors, large brand logos, and licensed character clothing (sorry, Disney fans!). These instantly distract the eye away from your family’s faces and connection.
3. Texture and Movement (The Secret Ingredient)
If you want your photos to feel like art, prioritize texture and movement over loud patterns.
- Fabrics: Linen is the ultimate Sunshine Coast fabric—it breathes well and looks beautifully organic. Waffle knits, lace, corduroy, and denim also add incredible depth to an image.
- Flow: For mums and daughters, a dress or skirt with a bit of “swish” is magic. When the coastal breeze catches a flowing hemline at one of my favorite secret photo locations, it brings the entire photograph to life.
4. Ditch the Shoes
I am a very down-to-earth photographer, which means if we are shooting at the beach, there is a very high chance I won’t be wearing shoes. I highly encourage you to do the same! Bare toes in the sand add to that authentic, “barefoot luxury” vibe that makes Sunshine Coast photography so special. If we are exploring a forest or headland in Noosa, simple leather sandals or neutral boots work perfectly.
5. The “Mama Goes First” Rule
As mums, we are usually the ones organizing the shoot and we are so rarely in front of the camera. So, I always recommend that you choose your outfit first. Find a dress or a combination that makes you feel absolutely amazing and confident. Once you have your hero outfit, pull 2 or 3 coordinating (not matching!) colours from it to build the rest of the family’s wardrobe.
Ready to create some magic?
The fashion is just the wrapping paper; the real focus of our shoot will always be your family’s unique story. If you’re feeling inspired and ready to capture some beautiful memories, you can view my Family Photography packages here or contact me to book your session.
I can’t wait to see how you pull it all together!
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