What to Wear for Your Beach, Park, or Outdoor Photoshoot

One of the most common questions before a photoshoot is, “What should I wear?” If you’re wondering what to wear for a beach or park photoshoot, you’re not alone.

Understanding how colours and tones work with the light, the weather, and the time of year is a great first step. The right colour palette can complement the location, enhance the mood of your shoot, and make your photos feel cohesive and timeless.

Once you’ve considered the colours, the most important thing is simple: wear something that makes you feel comfortable and truly yourself. When you feel confident and relaxed, that energy naturally shines through in your photos.

• Sunny, Clear Skies

  • Scenario

It’s a bright, sunny day with clear skies, often during the afternoon or golden hour before sunset.

• What happens in the light

Bright sunlight creates strong highlights and shadows, which can make vibrant colours feel extra intense. Beaches tend to reflect lots of light from the sand and water, while parks bring out vivid greens.

• Best colour palettes

Soft neutrals & pastels: ivory, blush, light grey, sage green. These reflect the soft, glowing tones of natural light, helping to keep your look airy and timeless.

Earthy tones: sandy beige, warm taupe, muted olive. These work beautifully against the natural tones of sand or greenery.

Avoid intense colours like neon green or bright red, as they can reflect onto your skin. In sunny light, darker tones can also appear flatter on camera, which is especially noticeable in maternity photoshoots. Softer, lighter shades tend to photograph better and enhance your natural glow and shape.

• Style tip

Start with something that makes you feel great, maybe that flowy dress you love or a relaxed linen shirt that fits perfectly. Confidence photographs better than any outfit combination ever could.

• Overcast or Cloudy Weather

  • Scenario

Soft, diffused light without harsh shadows, perfect for gentle, natural-looking portraits.

• What happens in the light

Cloud cover acts like a giant softbox, evening out skin tones and reducing contrast. This makes it easier to play with slightly deeper or richer colours.

• Best colour palettes

Mid tones: dusty blue, muted terracotta, soft olive. These have enough depth to stand out in the softer light.

Jewel tones: deep teal, burgundy, forest green. These add richness and mood without overwhelming.

Soft creams and charcoals: perfect for a subtle, timeless look.

• Style tip

Layers look beautiful under soft light, a textured jumper, open shirt or light jacket can add depth without feeling heavy. And again, choose fabrics you feel good in. If you’re comfortable, you’ll look it.

• Seasonally: What to Wear for a Beach or Park Photoshoot

  • Spring (September to November)

The light is fresh and soft, greens are vibrant, and flowers are blooming. Try pastel tones like blush, sky blue, or mint, paired with light neutrals. Think flowy, breathable fabrics that move easily, perfect for candid, natural shots.

• Summer (December to February)

Warm, glowing sunsets and long days make for dreamy golden light. Go for relaxed, breathable pieces in sandy beige, light blue, or coral accents. Avoid very dark tones that can feel heavy in the heat. Bare feet and linen are always a win at the beach.

• Autumn (March to May)

The light softens and deepens, creating rich, cozy tones. Choose colours like camel, olive, burnt orange or muted mustard. Layering with knits, scarves or textured fabrics adds warmth and interest.

• Winter (June to August)

Moody skies and empty beaches create a calm, cinematic look. Go for deeper colours such as charcoal, navy, or burgundy; they photograph beautifully in the cooler light. Don’t shy away from boots, coats or oversized jumpers; being warm and comfortable will show in the photos.

• Outfit Hire Options

If you’d love to wear something special for your shoot but don’t want to commit to buying a new outfit, we’ve partnered with a few beautiful brands that offer hire options perfect for beach or park sessions.

• Mama Rentals - Use code JPAZ10 for 10% off your hire.

• Everything Lace Hire - Use code JPAZPHOTO15 for 15% off your hire.

These are great options if you’d like something that moves beautifully in the wind or adds that little extra something to your photos without the full investment.

• The Most Important Thing: Feel Like Yourself

At the end of the day, the best outfit is the one that feels most like you. If you feel comfortable and confident in what you’re wearing, it will reflect in your body language, your smile, and the overall energy of your photos.

A well-chosen colour palette enhances the light and mood, but your confidence brings the image to life. So, wear something you love, that fits comfortably, and lets you move freely.

You’ll look your best when you feel your best.

Ready to book your photoshoot?

If you’re planning a beach or park session and want a bit of guidance on what to wear, I’m happy to help. We can chat about the location, time of year and colours that complement both the setting and your style.

Let’s plan something that feels natural, effortless and completely you.

Click here to book your session or send me an enquiry today.