Summer in North Carolina is full of golden light, vibrant greenery, and plenty of warm weather — the perfect recipe for beautiful family portraits. But when the temperatures climb and the humidity rises, choosing the right outfits can make a big difference in both comfort and style.
Here’s a guide to help you (and your little ones) look and feel your best for your summer family photoshoot.
1. Choose Light, Breathable Fabrics
When the summer heat is in full swing, fabrics like linen, cotton, chambray, and lightweight blends will keep you cool while looking polished.
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Best picks: Linen dresses, cotton button-down shirts, flowy skirts, and lightweight rompers for kids.
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Avoid: Heavy denim, thick knits, or synthetic fabrics that trap heat.
💡 Pro tip: Light fabrics also move beautifully in the breeze, which can add a dreamy, natural look to your photos.
2. Stick to a Soft, Summery Color Palette
Chapel Hill’s summer backdrops — think lush parks, sunflower fields, and coastal sunsets — pair beautifully with soft, complementary colors.
Great choices: Pastels (blush, mint, pale blue), neutrals (ivory, beige, taupe), and muted earth tones (sage, terracotta).
Go-to combinations:
Blush + light gray + cream
Sage green + beige + soft yellow
Navy + white + light blue
💡 Pro tip: Avoid neon brights or overly bold patterns, which can distract from faces and clash with natural scenery.
3. Coordinate, Don’t Match
Gone are the days of everyone in identical white shirts and jeans. Aim for cohesion without uniformity: choose 2–3 main colors and mix textures, patterns, and accessories within that palette.
Example: Mom in a blush linen dress, dad in a light gray button-down with rolled sleeves, kids in pale blue and cream accents.
4. Dress for Comfort and Movement
Whether we’re at a park in Chapel Hill, a field in Carrboro, or a coastal spot in Wilmington, your photos will look more natural if you’re comfortable moving, sitting, and walking.
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Shoes: Consider sandals, espadrilles, or bare feet for grassy/beach sessions.
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Fit: Avoid anything too tight or restrictive — relaxed silhouettes photograph beautifully and allow for playful moments.
5. Don’t Forget Accessories
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Hats: Wide-brim straw hats for moms or big sisters add a chic, summery touch (and shade!).
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Jewelry: Keep it simple — delicate gold or silver pieces work well.
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Props: A picnic blanket, bouquet of wildflowers, or a basket of summer fruit can add a lifestyle feel.
6. Plan for the Heat and Sun
Chapel Hill summers can be bright. Keep comfort in mind:
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Schedule your session early in the morning or an hour before sunset for the most flattering light.
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Bring water, sunscreen, and touch-up powder for shine.
FAQs About Summer Family Photoshoots in Chapel Hill
Q: Can we wear shorts for our family photos?
A: Absolutely — shorts can work well for summer sessions, especially for kids. Just choose tailored or dressy shorts rather than athletic styles, and pair them with a polished top.
Q: Should we bring a change of clothes?
A: It’s a great idea, especially if you want variety in your gallery or have young children. Even a quick top swap can give you a whole new look.
Q: What about patterns and prints?
A: Small, subtle prints like thin stripes or tiny florals work beautifully. Avoid large, loud patterns that can distract from faces or clash with backgrounds.
Q: How do we avoid looking sweaty in summer photos?
A: Schedule sessions early or late in the day, choose breathable fabrics, and bring blotting paper or powder for quick touch-ups. I also edit with a natural, flattering style that keeps you looking fresh.
Q: Can we bring props to our shoot?
A: Yes! A picnic blanket, flowers, or even a favorite book can make your photos more personal and relaxed.
Final Takeaway
For a summer family photoshoot in Chapel Hill, aim for light fabrics, soft colors, comfortable fits, and thoughtful accessories. The goal is to feel relaxed, coordinate naturally, and let the season’s warmth and beauty shine through your portraits.
📷 Ready to plan your summer session? Contact me here to book your family photoshoot while the summer light is at its best!
