A Local Photographer’s Guide to Looking Your Best on Florida’s Emerald CoastAs a family photographer based in Navarre Beach and Pensacola Beach, one of the first questions I hear is:“What should we wear for our beach photo session?”And I get it — you're investing in photos that will live on your walls, in albums, and on grandma's refrigerator for years. Let's make sure your outfits help you feel confident, natural, and timeless.
👨👩👧👦 8 Easy Tips for Picture-Perfect Beach Outfits
1. Choose a Soft, Coastal-Inspired Color Palette
Beach tones look best when paired with soft, natural colors that reflect the Emerald Coast vibe.
Great options include:
Soft whites, creams, and ivory
Sky blues, seafoam, sage green
Dusty rose, sand, and taupe
💡 Avoid bright reds, oranges, and neons — they tend to clash with the natural environment and reflect onto skin.
2. Coordinate Without Matching
You don’t all have to wear white shirts and khakis (unless you want to go full ‘90s throwback!).
Instead:
Pick 2–3 colors and build your outfits around them.
Mix solids with subtle patterns or textures.
Balance dresses with pants, and casual looks with polished pieces.
3. Go with Flow (Literally)
Fabrics that move in the ocean breeze look amazing on camera!
Think:
Maxi dresses
Light cotton shirts
Linen pants
Flowy skirts
Bonus: These styles tend to be flattering on all body types and comfortable in our humid Gulf Coast air.
4. Barefoot Is Beautiful
On Navarre and Pensacola beaches, we go barefoot — and so should you. Sandals and shoes often look out of place, and bare feet help everyone (especially kids!) feel relaxed
5. Avoid Logos, Graphics, and Busy Prints
Your family is the focus, not the brand name across a T-shirt. Stick to clean, classic looks without distractions:
Solids
Small florals
Subtle stripes or textures
6. Dress for the Weather
Check the forecast! In summer months, breathable fabrics are essential. In early spring or late fall, consider:
Light sweaters
Wraps or shawls
Layered outfits that can come off if needed
7. Prepare the Kids with Comfort in Mind
Outfits should be soft, breathable, and easy to move in. Avoid tags, tight waistbands, or scratchy fabrics.
Bring:
A backup outfit for spills or meltdowns
Hair ties for windy days
Snacks or small bribes (no shame here!)
8. Keep Accessories Simple
A few accessories can elevate a look — just don’t overdo it:
A flower crown, hat, or long necklace
A family heirloom (like grandma’s bracelet)
Fresh florals in your daughter’s braid
📸 Example Outfit Ideas
Mom: Flowy white maxi dress, gold jewelry, loose waves
Dad: Light blue button-up, rolled sleeves, khaki pants
Daughter: Cream or blush dress, flower crown
Son: White shirt, tan suspenders, rolled linen shorts
🌅 Best Time for Photos: Golden Hour
The most flattering, dreamy light happens about an hour before sunset — this is when I schedule almost all my sessions. Outfits in soft tones truly glow during this time, making your images look like magic.
🏖️ Final Thoughts
The key to a stunning Emerald Coast family photo session is keeping things simple, natural, and true to your family’s style. Let the beach be your backdrop — your connection, laughter, and love will be the star of the show.
💬 Ready to Chat?
As a veteran-owned, published photographer here on Florida’s Emerald Coast, I’d be honored to help you plan every detail — including what to wear, where to shoot, and how to keep it fun for the kids.
