The summer season in Ohio can be very hot, but it’s also one of the best times for a family session! The kids are out of school so they aren’t going to bed as early. This gives my clients a chance to be up a little later in the evening when the sun is lower in the sky. (Aka that “golden hour” time. 😏) Because it’s so warm outside, you need to wear outfits that will keep you cool and comfortable but still look good on camera. Follow along to discover what to wear for your family session!

I’ve been blessed to know the Nieset Family for a couple years. It’s always a pleasure to play with their kids, catch up with mom and dad, and update some family photos of course! Their family session took place during a hot summer July evening. The parents pushed through the heat, and their daughters were troopers throughout the whole photoshoot. As someone who also has kids too, I know how tough that can be! We took pictures on their property around corn fields, some tall weeds, and an old barn. Their special furry friends also joined us during the session! 🐶

Tips on What to Wear

The mom, Kristan, did a fabulous job coordinating outfits! She was smart in that she dressed one person in a print and everyone else wore solids. I can’t stress how much THIS HELPS when photographing families! It may sound minor, but pictures turn out so much better when everyone wears coordinating outfits. Sometimes when you add two different prints together, your eyes can get distracted and overwhelmed and you’re not sure where to look. In addition to this tip, here is some extra advice on what to wear!

Pro tip #2: All the moms need to read this one! If you want pictures that are “flowy” and “airy”, wear clothes that ARE flowy! It can be a short or long dress – as long as you can twirl in it. Clients think that only their daughters can get away with this type of outfit, but trust me when I say any mom can pull off a dress! 😉

Pro tip #3: If you want to REALLY accomplish the light and airy look, make sure the men (and the little boys) are wearing light colored bottoms which can be tan or light gray shorts or pants. Jeans can look dark and distracting in photos, especially in the summer. Look at the difference between this one family and the Nieset’s. You can tell which picture looks lighter and more pleasing to the eye.

This is from my family session and inspiration guide that I send out to all of my clients to help them prep beforehand. It helps them visualize which colors go together and which ones to stay away from, especially if you want a light and airy look.

Pro tip #4: It’s always hot during the summer in Fremont, Ohio! Make sure whatever you wear, that your family is comfortable. A bowtie may look really cute on your 4-year-old son, but if it’s going to bother him during the session, he doesn’t have to wear it. It will be difficult for him to have fun and show off his personality if he is uncomfortable. I promise that your pictures will still look cute!

With these helpful tips, you can make sure you’re prepped and ready on what to wear for your family session, even in the hot summers of Ohio! ☀️ For more ways to make sure your family session is foul proof, check out my other blog post! My schedule books up fast, so be sure to contact me soon about a session!