One of the biggest questions I get before a family session is: “What should we wear?”
Choosing outfits for family photos can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re coordinating multiple people, trying to keep everyone comfortable in the summer heat, and hoping your photos will feel timeless for years to come.
The good news? It doesn’t have to be complicated.
If you’re planning summer family photos in the Lake Zurich area, here are my favorite tips to help your family look and feel their best during your session.
Start with Soft, Neutral Colors
Summer sessions photograph beautifully with soft, light tones that complement the natural outdoor scenery.
Some of my favorite color palettes include:
- Cream and ivory
- Soft blues
- Sage green
- Dusty rose
- Light tan or beige
- Muted earth tones
These colors photograph beautifully at local locations like Buffalo Creek Forest Preserve, Downtown Long Grove, and Fort Sheridan, creating a timeless and natural look.
Coordinate — Don’t Match
Gone are the days of everyone wearing the exact same white shirt and jeans.
Instead, choose 2–4 complementary colors and mix them throughout your family’s outfits.
For example:
Mom in a flowy sage dress, dad in a light blue button-down, one child in cream, and another in soft floral tones.
This creates dimension and gives your photos a more natural, polished feel.
Choose Comfortable Clothing
Summer sessions can be warm, especially during golden hour.
Choose breathable fabrics like:
- Cotton
- Linen
- Lightweight blends
For little ones especially, comfort matters. If kids feel itchy, hot, or uncomfortable, it often shows in the photos.
The goal is for everyone to feel relaxed enough to laugh, play, and enjoy the experience.
Say Yes to Dresses and Texture
Flowy dresses photograph beautifully because they add movement and softness to your images.
Textures like lace, linen, subtle ruffles, or light knits can also add visual interest without being distracting.
These details help create that soft, effortless look many families love.
Avoid These Common Outfit Mistakes
To keep the focus on your family’s connection, try to avoid:
- Neon or overly bright colors
- Large logos
- Busy patterns
- Matching everyone exactly
- Athletic shoes (when possible)
Simple, classic outfits always photograph best.
Think About Your Location
What works best can depend on where your session is taking place.
For example:
Nature locations like Buffalo Creek Forest Preserve:
Soft neutrals, greens, and earthy tones work beautifully.
Downtown Long Grove:
Softer pastels or classic elevated casual looks fit perfectly.
Beach sessions at Fort Sheridan:
Light, airy fabrics and neutral tones photograph beautifully against the lake.
My Biggest Tip: Let Mom Pick First
I always recommend starting with mom’s outfit first.
Choose something you feel confident and comfortable in, then build everyone else’s outfits around those colors.
When mom feels good, the entire session feels more relaxed.
Remember: Connection Matters Most
The best family photos aren’t about perfect outfits.
They’re about genuine smiles, laughter, cuddles, and the little in-between moments that tell your family’s story.
Choosing outfits that make everyone feel comfortable and confident helps create those natural moments.
If you’re planning a summer family session in Lake Zurich or the surrounding areas and need help choosing outfits, I’m always happy to help guide you through the planning process.
Ready to book your summer family session? Let’s create something beautiful together.
