Why Summer is the Perfect Time for Family Photos
Summer in Broome County is a beautiful time to schedule family photos. As a mom myself, I know the stress that can come with getting everyone ready - and so much of that stress often comes down to picking out what to wear.
I truly love helping families choose outfits that will bring out the timeless look I aim for in every session. That said, it’s your family photoshoot, so in the end, you should wear what feels right and reflects your family best.
Comfort and Weather-Appropriate Choices
Try to choose light, breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, or gauze. These will help keep everyone cool and comfortable, especially on the hotter summer days we often see here in the Southern Tier.
Avoid heavy layers, which can add bulk and become uncomfortable to move or pose in. Comfort is especially important for the little ones - if they’re happy in what they’re wearing, they’re more likely to be cheerful during your session.
Also, keep your location in mind when selecting shoes. If we’re at a park or in a field, you’ll want footwear that’s easy to walk on grass or uneven ground.
Choose a Color Palette
I always recommend sticking to a cohesive color palette to give your photos a classic, timeless feel. Soft neutrals, pastels, or earthy tones work beautifully for summer family shoots, complementing the season’s natural backdrop.
A color palette ties everyone together without looking overly matching or staged — the last thing you want is a photo that looks like a stock image.
(Here’s a fun tip: you can even upload a photo of your outfit options to ChatGPT and ask for a mockup of how it might look on your family. A friend recently did this and loved getting a visual preview!)
Coordinate, Don’t Match
Wearing the exact same color can quickly look dated (think: 90s family beach photos where everyone’s in white shirts and jeans).
Instead, pick a few colors within your chosen palette and coordinate among family members. You might have some in patterns and others in solids. This approach keeps the look natural and stylish.
Think About Movement
I often recommend that moms wear a dress or skirt. They catch the breeze beautifully, adding soft movement to your photos and keeping them from feeling stiff.
The same goes for girls - light dresses create playful, candid moments. Most importantly, make sure your kids can run and play comfortably. Some of the sweetest images come from those genuine, in-the-moment interactions.
Accessorize Thoughtfully
Accessories are a wonderful way to add personality to your session. Bows for little girls, layered necklaces, or a favorite piece of jewelry can all bring subtle flair to your images.
Try to avoid shirts with logos, neon colors, or busy graphics. These tend to pull attention away from what matters most - your family’s faces and connections.
Plan Ahead to Reduce Stress
Start planning outfits early, and try everything on about a week before to ensure proper fit. You can even use that ChatGPT trick to visualize your choices together.
It’s also smart to have backup outfits on hand, especially for young kids. Whether someone spills, has an accident, or the weather surprises us, it’s always good to be prepared.
Look for Inspiration
Pinterest is a great place to start gathering outfit ideas and color palette inspiration. You can also scroll through Instagram or TikTok and save looks that stand out. Having a few examples makes it easier to style your family’s outfits in a way that feels true to you.
Ready to Book Your Summer Family Photos?
I hope these tips help make planning your session a little easier! If you’re ready to book your summer family photos in Binghamton, my calendar is open, and I’d love to help capture memories for your family this season.
As always, I’m more than happy to provide personalized styling advice or even text back and forth about outfit options before your shoot. Don’t hesitate to reach out - I can’t wait to hear from you!
