What to Wear: Beach Session Portraits

As the weather is getting warmer in Michigan, we are looking forward to our Lake Michigan Beach Sessions this summer! If you are getting your portraits taken on the beach, here are some wardrobe suggestions:

  • Families: Coordinate, don’t match. This isn’t a bowling team photo! You are all unique, so it’s important to be yourselves. Choose 2-3 coordinating colors. We recommend starting off neutral and building off of that. (Tip: Find similar/muted versions of the same color)

  • You can’t go wrong with the color blue for a beach session. Blue goes well with white, black, khaki, and grey!

  • We understand that the beach is the place to wear loose clothing, BUT that does not apply to portraits. We recommend fitted clothing over loose/flowy clothing because they don’t appear the same in portraits. At the same time, you don’t want tight clothes either. Just make sure that you feel comfortable and your clothing pieces compliment your body.

  • Days before your session, try on your clothing and look at your outfits from different angles. Make sure your shirt isn’t see-through and there aren’t any stains and rips where they don’t belong. To be safe, bring a backup outfit just in case.

Some things to keep in mind-

  • Think about where you will be displaying these portraits. If they are family portraits, will they be in your family room? Above the fireplace? We recommend staying neutral for your wardrobe, so your family portrait will go with almost any area of your home, or a loved one’s home (for example, if you are gifting a grandparent a portrait of their grandkid).

  • Consider timeless over trendy. If you do not do portrait sessions often, then this portrait will probably be on display for years. In this case, it is a great idea to wear clothing that won’t be embarrassing three or five years from now.

  • Since you’re at the beach, we may have you get barefoot for a few photos. Don’t forget to get a pedicure before your session!

  • Depending on the time of your session, bring layers! If your session is scheduled in the evening, bring cardigans and other layers that go with your outfit.

From July 29th-31st, we will be in South Haven for our Lake Michigan Beach Portraits. Book now!