What to Wear for a Photo Session in the Redwoods | Santa Cruz, CA Photographer
- kiphotostory
- Sep 10
- 3 min read
Planning a photo session in the redwoods of Santa Cruz, CA, is such a magical choice. Towering trees, soft filtered light, and earthy textures make the forest one of the most beautiful backdrops in the Bay Area. But the question I get most often from clients is: “What should we wear for our redwood photo session?”
The right outfit not only complements the natural setting but also ensures your photos look timeless and cohesive. Whether you’re planning a family shoot, maternity portraits, couples session, or kids’ photos, here’s a complete guide on what to wear (and what to avoid) for your redwood photography session in Santa Cruz.
General Outfit Tips for Redwood Photography Sessions
Stick to earthy and neutral tones: Think olive green, cream, beige, rust, mustard, tan, and muted blues. These colors complement the forest instead of clashing with it.
Layer for texture: Sweaters, cardigans, denim jackets, or flowy dresses add visual interest without being distracting.
Avoid busy patterns: Small checks, loud logos, or neon colors can pull focus away from your connection and the beauty of the redwoods.
Dress comfortably: You may be walking on forest trails, so shoes like boots, flats, or sandals with a good grip are best.
Outfit Ideas by Session Type
Family Photo Sessions in the Redwoods
Coordinated, not matching: Choose 2–3 base colors and mix them across family members. For example, mom in a flowy cream dress, dad in olive pants and a beige shirt, kids in soft rust or denim accents.
Texture works beautifully: Knit sweaters, corduroy, or linen fabrics bring warmth and variety to your photos.
Shoes matter: Kids especially should have comfortable, neutral shoes that won’t distract (avoid bright sneakers).
Couples Photo Sessions in Santa Cruz Redwoods
Romantic flowy dresses: Maxi or midi dresses in muted jewel tones (like wine, forest green, or mustard) look gorgeous against the trees.
Complementary outfits: If one partner wears a pattern (like subtle plaid), the other should stay solid.
Layer with style: Leather jackets, cozy cardigans, or scarves create natural, candid moments as you snuggle up in the cool redwood air.
Maternity Photography in the Redwoods
Long, flowy gowns: Maxi dresses in soft, earthy tones highlight your bump and create dreamy movement in photos.
Solid colors over patterns: Solid fabrics let your natural glow shine without distraction.
Add details: A floral crown, delicate shawl, or textured wrap adds softness and connection to nature.
Kids Photo Sessions in the Redwoods
Comfort first: Little ones should be able to move and play. Think corduroy overalls, soft knits, or simple dresses with tights.
Muted playful tones: Mustard, dusty rose, forest green, or soft denim.
Avoid logos & characters: Branded or cartoon clothing distracts from timeless images.
What NOT to Wear in the Redwoods
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 forest).
❌ Large logos or graphics (these date photos quickly and pull focus).
❌ High heels (not practical on forest trails).
❌ All-black outfits (can get lost in the deep greens and shadows).
❌ Identical matching outfits (like everyone in jeans and white tees—coordinated is more natural).
Final Thoughts
Your photo session in the Santa Cruz redwoods should feel relaxed, natural, and true to your family or love story. Choosing the right outfits helps highlight your connection and lets the breathtaking forest be the perfect backdrop.
If you’re still unsure, I always provide my clients with a personalized style guide and inspiration boards to help make outfit planning stress-free.
✨ Ready to book your family, maternity, couples, or kids session in the Santa Cruz or Bay Area redwoods? Contact me today to start planning your dream photo session!
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