Outfit Ideas for a Beach Photo Session | Santa Cruz Beach Photographer
- kiphotostory
- Sep 2
- 3 min read
Updated: Sep 11
Planning a beach photo session is exciting—whether it’s for family portraits, engagement photos, or a maternity shoot. One of the most common questions I hear as a Santa Cruz beach photographer is: “What should we wear for beach photos?”
The right outfit makes all the difference. It can highlight your personality, bring harmony to the scene, and create timeless images that feel effortless. Here are my professional tips and outfit ideas to help you shine during your beach photography session.
1. Stick to Light and Neutral Colors
The California coastline is naturally breathtaking with soft sandy tones and deep ocean blues. To complement this palette, I recommend wearing light and neutral shades—think white, cream, beige, blush, sage, or dusty blue.
These colors reflect the sun beautifully and won’t compete with the beach scenery. For a timeless look, avoid neon brights or heavy patterns, which can feel distracting in photos.
SHOP NEUTRAL OUTFITS BY CLICKING THE IMAGES BELOW
2. Coordinated Family Beach Photo Outfits
For family beach photography sessions in Santa Cruz, choose outfits that coordinate without being identical. Pick a color palette of 2–3 tones and mix them across family members.
Example:
Mom in a soft, flowy dress (cream or pastel)
Dad in a light blue shirt with khakis
Kids in complementary shades of beige or soft pink
This creates harmony while letting everyone’s personality come through.
3. Flowy and Comfortable Fabrics Work Best
The ocean breeze is your friend! Lightweight fabrics like linen, cotton, or chiffon look incredible in photos because they move naturally with the wind. Flowy dresses, skirts, and relaxed shirts add movement and elegance to your beach photo session.
4. Outfit Ideas for Different Sessions
Couples & Engagement Beach Photo Session Outfit Ideas
A maxi dress or sundress for her paired with a button-up shirt or casual linen top for him.
Barefoot is encouraged for a romantic, natural vibe.
Family Beach Portraits
Moms: maxi dresses or skirts in soft tones
Dads: polos, Henleys, or button-ups with rolled sleeves
Kids: simple rompers, shorts, or flowy dresses
Maternity Beach Photography
Fitted gowns that highlight your bump or long flowy dresses that catch the wind.
Soft pastels, creams, or earthy tones are ideal for a dreamy coastal look.
5. Keep Accessories Minimal
Simple is best when it comes to beach photo session outfits. A delicate necklace, sun hat, or light cardigan can add interest, but avoid heavy accessories that may distract from the setting—or you.
6. What NOT to Wear
To make sure your photos look beautiful and natural, here are a few things to avoid:
❌ Neon colors (they reflect oddly on skin and clash with the beach).
❌ Large logos or graphics (these date photos quickly and pull focus).
❌ High heels (not practical on the beach).
❌ Identical matching outfits (like everyone in jeans and white tees—coordinated is more natural).
7. Practical Tips for a Smooth Session
Skip heels—go barefoot or wear flat sandals.
Bring a backup outfit for kids (sand and water are irresistible!).
Sunset sessions can get chilly, so consider light layers.
Final Thoughts
Your outfit should make you feel comfortable and confident—that’s when the best photos happen. The beach provides the perfect backdrop, and the right clothing choices will elevate your images into something timeless and magical.
If you’re planning family portraits, a maternity shoot, or an engagement session on the beaches of Santa Cruz, I’d love to help you style your session. Together, we’ll create photographs that feel natural, joyful, and beautifully you.
📸 Ready to book your Santa Cruz beach photography session? Contact me here.
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