STYLING 101 for Portraits on the BEACH

What to Wear for Your Beach Photo Session (So You Love Your Photos Forever)

First things first—this is your session.
These are your photos, your memories, and ultimately you can wear whatever you want. 🤍

That said, after years of photographing all kinds of outfits, I’ve learned what truly photographs beautifully—and what helps you look back at your images in 10, 20, even 30 years and still absolutely love them.

My goal? To give you the best possible chance at stunning photos that you will cherish for generations.

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Why Styling Matters More Than You Think

What you wear doesn’t just “look nice”—it shapes the entire feel of your session.

Styling:

• Elevates your images instantly
• Creates visual harmony between everyone in your group
• Helps tell your story in a more meaningful, cohesive way

A little intention goes a long way.

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A Quick Note on Patterns

Patterns can be tricky. Some photograph beautifully… and others, not so much.

There’s no perfect rule here—which is why, if you’re unsure, just ask me! I’m always happy to help you decide.

That said, simpler is usually better (more on that below 👇).

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Where to Start: Style Her First

When coordinating outfits, always start with Mama / Wifey 💫

Find something she feels:

• Confident in
• Comfortable in
• Beautiful in

From there, we build everyone else’s outfits to complement her. Men’s and children’s styling tends to be much easier once her look is locked in.

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The Top 10 Keys to Styling Your Beach Session

These TEN tips are tailored for beach sessions, but they work beautifully in almost any outdoor setting!

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1. Remove Unnecessary Accessories

If it’s not part of the outfit, it probably doesn’t belong in the photos.

Avoid:

• Smart watches / Apple watches
• Hair ties on wrists
• Sunglasses
• Hats (unless styled intentionally)
• Shoes (we usually go barefoot!)
• Hotel/condo wristbands

Quick tip: If your resort requires wristbands, just let them know you have a photoshoot—they’re usually accommodating!

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2. Dress Like You’re Going to the Same Event

One of the most common mistakes?

• Women in elegant, flowy dresses
• Men in boardshorts and graphic tees

Individually? Totally fine.
Together? It clashes.

Aim for a shared level of dressiness. Meet in the middle so everyone feels cohesive.

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3. Don’t “Match”—Coordinate

Gone are the days of identical white shirts and jeans.

Instead:

• Choose a color palette
• Mix tones within that palette
• Let each person stand out while still belonging

Even subtle differences make a big visual impact.

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4. Choose Muted, Soft Colors

You can absolutely wear color—just be mindful of the tone.

Avoid:

• Neon shades
• Super bright, saturated colors

Why? They pull attention away from faces and connection.

Instead, go for:

• Soft colors
• Creams and neutrals
• Earth tones
• Washed-out or dusty hues

Even reds can work—if they’re “washed out” a bit.

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5. Keep Patterns Simple (or Skip Them)

Bold patterns can create visual distractions or odd effects on camera.

If you love patterns, stick to:

• Subtle stripes
• Gingham
• Polka dots

Otherwise, textured solids are your best friend. Linen, cotton, knits—these photograph beautifully and add depth without distraction.

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6. Plan for Wind (Because… Beach 🌊)

It will be windy. Embrace it!

• Loose, flowy hair photographs beautifully
• Long dresses and skirts move in a dreamy, natural way
• Flowy fabrics add life and motion to your images

Bonus: Longer garments and shorts under skirts also make posing easier and more comfortable.

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7. Choose Flowy Over Tight

Flowy outfits allow you to:

• Sit
• Walk
• Play
• Snuggle

…without worrying about adjusting your outfit every two seconds.

You can still show some skin—it just keeps things effortless and natural instead of restrictive.

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8. Skip Logos & Choose Elevated Tops

For men especially:

Avoid:

• Logo t-shirts
• Stiff polos

Instead, go for:

• Button-ups
• Henleys
• Simple, well-fitted basics

A good rule: No logos on anyone.

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9. Pants Over Cargo Shorts

If the women are dressed up, the men should meet that energy.

Skip:

• Cargo shorts

Go with:

• Lightweight pants
• Khakis
• Neutral-toned jeans

It instantly elevates the overall look.

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10. HAVE FUN 🤍

This is the most important one.

The camera picks up everything—especially stress.

So:

• Laugh
• Move
• Be playful
• Let go of perfection

The more relaxed and present you are, the more your photos will reflect real joy.

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Ready to Take It a Step Further?

If you want more personalized guidance, the next step is choosing your vibe—this helps pull everything together seamlessly.

👉 CLICK HERE to choose your vibe and get curated styling ideas!