If you’ve booked a family session (or are thinking about it), one of the first questions that usually comes up is:

“What do we wear to our family shoot?”

As a lifestyle family photographer based on the Gold Coast and Northern Rivers, I’ve photographed hundreds of families and guided them through this exact question. The answer? You don’t need to buy anything new it’s all about styling for comfort, connection, and tones that work together.

Whether we’re shooting at a beach in Kingscliff, the Gold Coast hinterland, or a backyard in Byron Bay, here’s how to choose what to wear , all stress-free. Because this should be an easy experience , its not about the wardrobe , its about being together and being with the ones you love.

1. Keep It Comfortable

Photoshoots are about connection, not posing stiffly in unfamiliar clothes. We’ll be barefoot, LOTS of cuddling your toddler, chasing, giggles at insider jokes , or sitting in long grass, so its important to wear something that will be easy to move in , whether you are sitting or standing or even chasing your toddlers in . If these clothese get dirty – its okay , the important thing is that you were TOGETHER I feel that its important to choose pieces you feel beautiful and relaxed in. We all own an item of clothing that we KNOW we look good in.

Think:

• Soft flowy dresses
• Linen shirts
• Oversized knits
• Relaxed pants or shorts, or your favourite pair of jeans that you know fits well and you dont mind getting messy
• Bare feet or simple sandals
• Or boots ( think hunter boots or colorful gum boots for your toddler)- which is especially imprtant for locations with longer grasses.

2. Choose Tones, Not Matching Outfits

The best family photos feel natural and cohesive, not matchy. I love the trend of simple elegant and white and denim but the general idea is a vibe and a feeling not matching for the sake of matching . Choose a Palette and feeling , not a Uniform

The best family photos feel like you : natural, expressive, and connected. While matching white shirts might work for a couples shoot or a classic studio look, family sessions are a little more wild and wonderful.

Instead of identical outfits, think palette over perfection. Think feeling over looking like everyone else. Earthy tones, warm neutrals, soft textures, or a subtle pops of colour , these tones photograph beautifully against the coastal light and hinterland backdrops of the Gold Coast and Northern Rivers.

Here’s a go-to formula to start with (but never a rulebook):

• Mum in a soft, textured dress, knits or a flowing skirt
• Dad in relaxed linen or denim
• Kids in colours and outfits that reflect their personality and complement the vibe

This is a collaborative process. I want your family to shine and to bring your own colour, character, and confidence to the shoot. I’ll guide you to choose outfits that feel effortless, authentic and beautiful but what inspires me most is when your wardrobe choices help tell your story. If your little one loves their mustard overalls or your teen refuses to wear anything but green , we’ll make it work. It’s about capturing your family as they are, not squeezing into something they’ll hate (and want to rip off mid-shoot!).

Discomfort can’t be photoshopped. Confidence , joy and ease is what is timeless and will ensure you love these images and want them framed around your home.

FAQs About Family Photoshoot Outfits — Gold Coast & Northern Rivers

Do I need to buy new clothes for our family photoshoot?

You absolutely don’t need to. Some of the most relaxed and beautiful images come from pieces you already own and feel good in. I’m not opposed some retail spoiling either and love any excuse for a new spoil , just make sure you absolutely love it and feel confident and comfortable in that new item of clothing.

What colours look best in family photos?
I don’t think there is a right or wrong colour , but if you want a rule I would say , neutrals always work well and are classic. I also love pops of colour if that’s your personality . Choose tones that suit both the beach and the lush greenery of the Northern Rivers or Gold Coast hinterland and thats usually neutral colours . As long as they work with you and bring out your best features too. Please avoid neon , I have learned that neons wreck skin tones so please avoid these as I cannot photoshop skintones wrecked by a reflective neon.

Can you help us with outfits?
Yes , styling is part of the process. When you book a shoot, I’ll send you a styling guide and offer help choosing outfits from your wardrobe . I also love helping you style your kids and partner too . My advice here would be to plan and not leave it to the day ( or night ) before.

Do you offer a client wardrobe? What is a client wardrobe ?
Right now, I don’t offer a client wardrobe and that’s very intentional. Photographers often have curated wardrobes , I don’t offer this service as I have never really had a call for it. And I want your images to look like you not everyone else. I have seen hiring services and can point you in that direction if you want the ease of this service.

This is why I don’t offer a curated wardrobe : I want your photos to reflect you and your family’s personality, style, and connection. The best sessions are the ones where you show up feeling like yourselves, not like you’ve stepped into someone else’s version of what a family “should” look like. I also dont want your movement or the moment ruined if youre too concerned about ruing a garment ( or your kids ruining a garment) on beach and creek shoots – we are in the water. Family shoots get messy , lets have the freedom to allow that , its one less thing to worry about while we are on your family shoot creating memories.

Instead of providing a wardrobe that may not feel true to you, I offer guidance and a collaborative styling process that helps you choose outfits you feel comfortable, confident, and beautiful in. I’ll send you inspiration, colour palette ideas, and tips for choosing pieces that photograph beautifully (and won’t date next season). And if you want to bounce ideas or get my eyes on your options I’m happy to do that too . Or if you want to be totally casual in your bathers and what you wear everyday , I’m here for it all. I want comfort above all else.

Because this isn’t about recreating someone else’s Pinterest board. It’s about telling your story.

We’re doing a shoot at the beach — what should we wear?
For beach shoots, think soft textures, breathable fabrics, and tones that flow with the sand and sky. Avoid heavy patterns or tight clothing. Linen, cotton, or gauzy layers work beautifully. If we are shooting in summer – pack some bathers too and lets get in the water. It always relaxes kids and draws out their best smiles. For that matter, I love the idea of a dressed down shoot too , this is about YOU and what you want to preserve.

Final Thought

When you feel comfortable and confident in what you’re wearing, the connection and joy shine through and that’s what makes the photo magic happen.

I’m here to help you every step of the way, whether we’re shooting at Broken Head, Currumbin, or your own backyard. Let’s make it easy and beautiful.

For more inspiration , visit my Families page , I also provide my clients with a more in depth guide so if you are looking to book I would love to chat and see how we can create candid , fun and natural family photos click here to get in touch