What to wear for spring and summer family photos in Georgia

I’ve lived in Georgia for over 35 years, and spring and summer are … unpredictable. Humid and 90 degrees one day. Wet and 60 degrees the next. As an Atlanta family photographer I can honestly say, it’s a challenge when trying to help people figure out what to wear for spring family photos or how to dress for summer family photos. 

Over the years I’ve learned it’s not just about color palettes, it’s about knowing how to manipulate your wardrobe to suite both your family and your environment. How to choose things that help you feel your best and work with the Georgia outdoors. How to keep everyone sane even when the environment can literally feel the opposite. 

I’ve pulled a few of my favorite pieces of advice into this post about not only what to wear for family photos in spring and summer, but also how to prepare for your session so you can maximize everyone’s comfort, cooperation and joy.

Weather + Fabric: Real Considerations When Choosing What to Wear

Before we even get into colors or outfits, start here: If you’re uncomfortable, it will show.

Look for fabrics that breathe in the Georgia heat and won’t betray you the second it gets warm. (Y’all, seriously – we all know what types of fabric look like we’ve been swimming in them when we spend more than a few minutes in the wet, humid Georgia air.)

Fabrics that tend to show sweat more:

• Rayon
• Silk
• Polyester blends
• Thin, lightweight jersey

Fabrics that are much more forgiving:

• Linen (always a win)
• Cotton (a light texture, even better)
• Chambray
• Muslin

And always — bring a layer.

Not just for warmth as the sun sets and the crazy temperature decides to drop 20 degrees, but because layers:

• add texture
• give you a second look
• can come off quickly if needed
• or can quickly cover up sweat if needed

(I love a short sleeved summer cardigan, an open chambray button down over a fitted tee for dad … for myself, I’m a long flowy dress girl for summer family photos because – breeze!)

Choose an “Anchor Person” + Style Your Kids Last

The easiest way to style a family for a photo session without overthinking it is to start with one person — usually mom or whomever booked the session — and build from there.

This is your “anchor.”

I personally love a long, flowy dress for family pictures – if that’s you, this is your moment. It adds movement, photographs beautifully and gives you something to build everything else around. Especially a floral or gentle patten, you can pick colors from it and pop everyone in else those colors (in solids) and you’re good to go!

Use your anchor person to take the guesswork out. You’re just pulling pieces that support that one outfit instead of trying to style lots of disparate pieces.

Why do I suggest styling kids last? One reason, their clothing is typically cheaper so if you need to buy an outfit or two, or buy a backup outfit to supplement something you already have, this can save you money.

Also, you know what they’ll tolerate, what they’ll wear comfortably without putting up a fight and what matches (especially if they’re little). 

Best Colors for Spring and Summer Family Pictures

I say for “spring and summer” for the purposes of this post but really, these are pretty good “rules” to go by when styling your family for a photo session during any season – if color is the consideration at hand. 

It’s not just what color — it’s which version of that color.

We’re almost always leaning toward:

• softer tones
• muted versions
• colors that feel natural and calm

So instead of:

• bright red → go burgundy
• bold blue → go soft blue or navy
• bright green → go sage or olive

A good gut check:

“Would I see this color in nature, and does it feel calm?”

 

Color wheels are super helpful when trying to decide “what’s a muted or neutral or more earthy version of that green color I really love?”

Coordinating vs. Matching Family Outfits: An Important Distinction

You don’t need everyone in the same outfit. In fact, let’s just not … it makes your clothes the center of attention, not the people, and it really dates your photos. 

Instead, think:

• 2–3 core colors
• neutrals as your base 
• similar tones, not identical pieces

If you have an anchor outfit that you really love (I’m looking at you busy, tired mama who doesn’t have time to buy things for herself ever but has that one dress she loves!) send me a picture. I’ll put together a style board for you like this one –>

Comfort over Cuteness Wins Every Time (But Aim for Both)

This is the part people skip — and it’s the most important.

Be honest about your people.

If:

• dad lives in jeans and a t-shirt
• your toddler hates anything stiff (my son calls these “crunchy pants”)
• your older child has strong opinions

…listen to that.

Because if someone feels uncomfortable or unlike themselves, it will show up in your photos.

Clothing should support connection, not compete with it.

Try Not to Overthink It, It’s Really About the People In the Clothes

A Few Things to Avoid:

I have very few hard passes when it comes to the families I photograph, but there are a handful of things I really discourage when it comes to what to wear for family photos:

• Neon colors (they reflect onto skin tones)
• Large logos or graphic tees
• Very tight patterns (like small plaid or tiny polka dots)
• Transition lenses (we want to see your eyes)
• Smart watches (I can hold them for you)
• Fully matching outfits

Coordinated always beats identical (see above).

Two Small Details Most People Don’t Think About: Haircuts and Nails

If you’re planning a haircut — especially for shorter styles — give it about a week before your session.

A fresh cut + sun exposure can sometimes create visible tan lines. Letting it grow out just a bit helps everything feel more natural.

And I love to get those sweet details, like your kid holding your hand or your hand on the small of your partner’s back … try to take a second to make sure your nails are decent, not perfect, but not a mess (like mine, as a busy mom of two are … always!)

Quick Tips on What to Bring to a Family Session During Spring and Summer

A few simple things can make your session feel much smoother:

• Bug spray
• Baby wipes
• Oil blotting sheets
• Water
• A small fan

And a favorite tip:

Frozen grapes for little people.

They stay cold, aren’t messy and are actually refreshing in the heat. Pack them with frozen water bottles in a small cooloer so you don’t have a drippy mess on your hands. 

*yes, yes I know these photos are technically in the fall, but it was super warm and their outfits, c’mon … they really drive my point home. They look like themselves, thoughtfully coordinated with comfy shoes for the boys. Dark jeans say, “I care, but I’m not a khakis kind of guy.” And the cream suede ankle boots, chef’s kiss with that gentle textured dress with the overlay that the light can shine through! that is all…*

Final Note on What to Wear for Spring and Summer Family Pictures

ASK!! Seriously, I’ve had a FaceTime call with a mom walking through Target holding up dresses for her daughter.

More families than I can count lay their outfits out on the bed and send me pictures so we can chat about switches and patterns and textures.

Need links? Want to know where I find my favorite dresses for family photos? Are you a Pinterest person and want a board? Or do you have mom’s outfit and need an Amazon page to buy looks for the kids?

Reach out to me. That’s why I’m here, to make this process pleasant and peaceful feeling for you. 

Don’t wait until the day before and don’t let it stress you out. Text me your likes, dislikes and color preferences and I’ll send guidance your way.

Questions about what to wear for family photos you’d like me to answer? Reach out here!