Outdoor sessions are beautiful, natural, and full of variety, but they do take a little extra planning. A few thoughtful clothing choices and a little preparation can make a big difference in how your session looks and feels.

My goal is always for your session to feel as easy, relaxed, and enjoyable as possible, so here are my best tips for what to wear and how to prepare.

What to Wear

- Choose outfits that coordinate rather than match exactly
- Start with a simple color palette of 3–4 colors
- Neutrals are always a beautiful foundation and photograph wonderfully, especially soft earthy or muted tones
- I also love when families mix in a little color, since that can add warmth, depth, and life to your photos
- Too many all-neutral outfits can sometimes feel a little flat, so a soft pop of color is often the perfect balance
- Add texture and layers like knits, lace, linen, denim, cardigans, or dresses with movement
- Dress for the season and location
- Most importantly, wear something that feels comfortable and that you feel good in

What to Avoid

To keep the focus on you and your connection, I recommend avoiding:

- Bright neon colors
- Large logos, graphics, or characters
- Busy or distracting patterns
- Thin stripes or tiny prints
- Very bright white if possible
- Clothing that feels too tight, uncomfortable, or difficult to move in

- Clothing that is overly loose or overly baggy, since it can look less polished in photos

Shoes Matter

Shoes show in photos more than most people expect, and for outdoor sessions they also need to be practical.

- Close-toed shoes and boots are preferred for most outdoor locations
- They are especially recommended for locations with long grass, uneven ground, or dirt paths
- Simple, neutral, clean shoes or boots usually photograph best
- Bright athletic shoes or overly casual footwear are best avoided unless they truly fit the look of the session

How to Prepare

A little prep ahead of time can help your session go so much more smoothly.

- Make sure everyone is fed and as well rested as possible before the session
- Arrive with outfits, shoes, and hair fully ready
- Bring water and a few small, non-messy snacks for little ones
- Apply bug spray before you arrive if needed
- Bring wipes, a brush, and any quick touch-up items
- For babies or toddlers, bring a backup outfit just in case

Important Outdoor Considerations

Outdoor sessions are gorgeous, but nature does come with a few inconveniences that are important to keep in mind.

Depending on the location and season, all outdoor areas have the potential for:

- Mosquitos
- other bugs including ticks
- Snakes
- Long grass, dirt, uneven ground, or sticker burrs
- Wind, heat, and changing weather conditions

I don’t share that to worry anyone, but simply to help you come prepared. Choosing practical shoes and dressing with the location in mind can make a big difference in your comfort during the session.

 

What to Expect

Most of my outdoor sessions are short and relaxed, usually around 15–30 minutes. During that time, I focus on creating a beautiful mix of both classic portraits and natural candid moments.

You can expect a combination of:

- smiling portraits with everyone looking at the camera
- individual and family poses with gentle direction
- candid moments full of connection, movement, and personality

My goal is to give you a gallery that feels polished, natural, and full of variety.

For Families with Young Children

Please don’t stress about perfect smiles the entire time. Some of the sweetest images come from cuddles, movement, play, and genuine connection.

A few things that can help:

- Talk positively about the session ahead of time
- Avoid putting too much pressure on your children to smile
- Bring a small clean snack if needed
- Let me take the lead once we begin

Prefer Something ELSE?

If you love the look of my work but would rather skip the heat, wind, bugs, or uncertain outdoor conditions, I also have a studio option.

My studio is:

- Temperature controlled
- Clean and comfortable
- Free from outdoor inconveniences like bugs, tall grass, and changing weather
- A great option for young children or anyone who prefers an easier, more predictable setting

Both outdoor and studio sessions can be beautiful. It really just depends on the look and experience that feels best for your family.

Final Thoughts

The goal is not to make things feel stiff or overly styled. The goal is to create a look that feels comfortable, polished, and timeless so the focus stays where it belongs, on your family and your connection.

If you would like help choosing outfits, feel free to text or email me before your session. I’m always happy to help.

Color Palette Inspiration

Not sure what colors to wear? Use these palette examples as inspiration when planning your outfits. You do not need to match them exactly, just aim for tones that coordinate well together.