GOLD COAST & NORTHERN RIVERS PHOTOGRAPHER
Journal
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
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 […]
Planning to book your Maternity Photos? A local guide to beautiful maternity sessions on the Gold Coast and Northern Rivers
If you’re googling “when should I book maternity photos?” — you’re not alone. Most of my maternity clients on the Gold Coast and Northern Rivers ask the same thing when looking to book their maternity photographer and usually a bit later than they planned. Its so often I see a panicked pregnant mum asking on Facebook groups , because unfortunately by then , their chosen photographer may already be booked.
I understand completely , suddenly you are in your third trimester and wondering if its too late to book your maternity shoot or maybe the thought of of overly styled and posed photos makes you cringe and yet you know if you don’t do this you might regret it. And now you’re googling when you should book your maternity photos or natural maternity photo ideas. Its never too late to book and you can absolutely have photos of this season that are natural, creative and not contrived. If you want something that feels like you and is still artful , I’m for you and here’s what you need to know when looking at ( or thinking about )booking a maternity shoot.
Timing matters and this is an important season. Not just for how your bump looks but for how you feel during the shoot, as well as other logistics that may not be on your mind when a considering a maternity photos.
But every pregnancy is different and every mum is different too.
As a maternity photographer I have photographed sessions at 26 weeks and 36 weeks that were equally stunning. I have photographed a mum who went into labour the next day , so in that case timing was everything! I have photographed couples on their baby moon as early as 26 weeks . It really comes down to how you feel in your body, and what kind of photos you want. I have had mums in extreme discomfort , and in those cases I care DEEPLY for your safety so we move slowly to your comfort levels even if your shoot needs to be shorter. Beautiful photos are always possible.
What’s the Best Time to Book Maternity Photos?
Booking early (ideally in your second trimester) helps. In short we photograph bumps from 28 weeks – 36 weeks . Or thereabout. Booking a date should be confirmed by 28weeks. If you are in in your first trimester and researching , I hope you find this guide a helpful start!
Book your Maternity Shoot Earlier than later
Here’s why :
-Guarantee availability in my calendar, or for that matter any photographer’s calendar. Seasonal weather for any natural photographer plays a huge role . In summer months I book multiple dates to allow for rain because I know how fickle the weather is in these months and I want to have you covered.
– Gives us time to plan outfits, concept and choose the perfect location. My favourite shoots have always been the ones that are collaborative. I actually LOVE it when my clients have a pinterest board or inspiration photos ( some not even maternity photos ) it makes this process so much fun and a bespoke unforgettable experience AND you know your photos will be different to everyone else. I want you to have something true to you that your family will love in 20,30 ,40 years time.
-Take the pressure off so you can relax and enjoy the experience, I want this to be fun and artful.
What If I’ve Left It Late to Book a Maternity Shoot??
Don’t worry , if you’re further along, it’s still worth reaching out. I sometimes have last-minute spots, especially mid week , and I’ll always do my best to get this captured for you.
My partner doesn’t want to be in the photos? Can we still capture something meaningful ?
Yes! Your partner can choose to be present or not , please don’t let this season slip past because your partner didn’t want a photoshoot. My Maternity photoshoots are for either the whole family ( fur babies included) or just you soaking up this time.
Can I include partners, children or my pets in our Maternity Shoot?
Yes – anyone and everyone is welcome. Sometimes there are logistics around this ( a dog beach and child friendly location or even organising a grandparent to help with siblings during your photoshoot) , lets turn this shoot into a celebration of this chapter in your family’s life.
Locations & Outfits for Maternity Photoshoots
I photograph maternity sessions in-home, at the beach, or surrounded by nature. We focus on natural light, connection, and comfort creating images that feel like you, not just a pose. I don’t want your photos looking like everyone else’s and I wouldn’t want you to feel uncomfortable in any way. I shoot on Gold Coast beaches – from Burleigh to Currumbin , Kirra , Rainbow Beach , Cabarita Beach all the way to Byron and Lennox Heads. But we arent limited to beaches , only by our imagination so I would love to hear any ideas you have – I absolutely love collaboration.
On that note – while I don’t currently offer a wardrobe , I do offer styling advice . I want this shoot to really feel like you – if its in a bikini , button up shirt or flowing dress – what ever feels most like you. Lets prioritize comfort . I also love bare bellies , this doesn’t have to be totally topless , it can be a top that allows for this or a lacy bralette paired with a shirt or jeans. I find that the bare bump photos really photograph beautifully and show the power and honest beauty of what your body is doing. These often end up being client favourites.
Ready to Book?
You can browse my maternity work here or get in touch to chat about timing and ideas. I’d love to help you plan something special. And if you are in the researching phase and wondering what a maternity Photoshoot costs – visit my Maternity Photography Pricing here
📍 Serving: Gold Coast, Tweed Coast, and Northern Rivers
Planning to book your Maternity Photos? A local guide to beautiful maternity sessions on the Gold Coast and Northern Rivers If you’re googling “when should I book maternity photos?” — you’re not alone. Most of my maternity clients on the Gold Coast and Northern Rivers ask the same thing when looking to book their maternity […]
