top of page
Writer's pictureLaurie LaPorte

Choosing the Perfect Colors for Summer Family Photos || New Hampshire Family Photographer

Summer offers a beautiful backdrop for family photo sessions, with nature bursting with vibrant hues and soft pastels. As a New Hampshire summer family photographer, I understand that capturing the essence of the season involves more than just finding the right location; selecting the perfect colors for summer family photos can enhance the beauty of your portraits. Let's delve into some tips on choosing colors to wear for family photos in the summer.


Embrace Pastels:

  • Summer is perfect for pastel shades like soft pinks, light blues, pale yellows, and mint greens. These colors complement the blooming flowers, fresh greenery, and water creating balance with the natural surroundings. Pastels are universally flattering and convey a sense of lightness and serenity, perfect for creating timeless family portraits.

colors for summer family photos - soft summer palette

Coordinate, Don't Match:

  • Gone are the days of everyone wearing identical outfits. Opt for coordinating colors instead, allowing each family member to showcase their style while maintaining a cohesive look. Choose a color palette with complementary tones that work well together. For instance, pair khaki with varying shades of blue for a visually pleasing ensemble.

colors for summer family photos - baby blues palette

Add a Pop of Color:

  • While pastels and blues dominate the summer color palette, don't shy away from incorporating a pop of brighter color to add depth and visual interest to your photos. Consider accentuating the pastel hues with a bold accessory or layering piece, such as a statement necklace, scarf, or cardigan in a vibrant coral, turquoise, or sunny yellow.

colors for summer family photos - vintage summer palette

Consider Neutral Anchors:

  • Neutral tones like white, beige, peach, tan, and gray are excellent anchors in your family photo outfits, providing balance and allowing the brighter summer colors to shine. Incorporate neutrals through base layers such as tops, bottoms, or outerwear, ensuring they complement the chosen summer palette without overpowering it.

colors for summer family photos - cantaloupe blues palette

Mind the Location:

  • When selecting colors for your family's attire, consider the backdrop of your photoshoot location. If you're shooting amidst a field of wildflowers or in a lush garden, opt for softer, muted tones that complement the surroundings. 

colors for summer family photos - neutral gold palette

Don't Forget Texture:

  • Texture adds dimension and visual interest to your family’s portraits, especially in outdoor settings where natural light plays a significant role. Mix and match fabrics with different textures, such as linen, cotton, lace, or chambray, to create depth and richness in your family's outfits without overpowering the chosen color scheme.

colors for summer family photos - ocean coral palette

Consider Personal Preferences:

  • Ultimately, the most important factor in selecting colors for family photos is ensuring everyone feels comfortable and confident in their attire. Consider each family member's style and preferences when choosing outfits, allowing them to express themselves while still adhering to the overall color palette.

colors for summer family photos - family in summer colors on the grass

Capturing the beauty of summer in your family photos involves considering color choices that complement the season's vibrant landscape. By embracing blues and pastels, coordinating colors, adding pops of brightness, anchoring with neutrals, and considering texture and personal preferences, you can create stunning portraits that evoke the joy and warmth of summertime memories for years to come. So, gather your loved ones, coordinate your favorite summer hues, and let the season's magic unfold through your family photographs.

colors for summer family photos - palettes







19 views0 comments

Recent Posts

See All

Comments


bottom of page