Planning your family photoshoot in the stunning Phoenix desert? You’ve chosen a breathtaking location! But now comes the big question—what should you wear? Choosing the right outfits will not only make your family look amazing but will also complement the warm, golden tones of the Arizona landscape. As a Phoenix family photographer, I’ve helped many families put together the perfect look for their sessions, and I’m sharing my best tips with you here!
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Choose Colors That Pop Against the Neutral Desert Backdrop
The Phoenix desert is filled with gorgeous earthy tones—think warm tans, golden yellows, soft greens, and deep browns. To make your family stand out beautifully in photos, opt for colors that contrast yet complement the natural scenery. Rich jewel tones like burgundy, deep green, navy, and mustard photograph beautifully. Soft pastels like blush, dusty blue, and cream can also create an airy, dreamy effect. Avoid neon or overly bright colors, as they can be too harsh against the soft desert hues.
Stick to a Coordinated Color Palette for the Whole Family
Instead of perfectly matching outfits, think about creating a cohesive color scheme. Choose two or three complementary colors and mix them throughout everyone’s clothing. This adds dimension while keeping a polished look. A good rule of thumb? Pick neutral base tones and then add in some richer colors or patterns. For example, if mom is wearing a flowy rust-colored dress, dad might wear a cream-colored shirt with tan pants, and the kids could have elements of blues, greens, or soft yellows.
Pick Comfortable Shoes for Light Hiking
The best family photo locations in Phoenix often involve a little bit of walking to get to the most scenic spots. While high heels or brand-new shoes might seem like a great idea, comfort should be your top priority. Opt for stylish yet practical footwear like ankle boots, stylish flats, or comfortable sandals. For kids, closed-toe shoes are best to protect their feet from small rocks and cacti. If you do want to wear something more fashionable for the actual shoot, bring a pair of comfortable shoes for the walk and switch once we’re in place!
Accessorize for Extra Detail and Personality
Accessories can elevate your photos and add beautiful details without overpowering your look. Consider adding wide-brimmed hats, dainty jewelry, scarves, or even layering textures like denim or light cardigans. These little touches help create movement and interest in your images. Just remember to keep it simple—too many accessories can become distracting!
Get Inspired by Real Desert Sessions
Need some visual inspiration? Check out some of my past desert family sessions to see how other families have styled their outfits! You’ll get ideas on what works well with the Phoenix landscape and how different colors and textures photograph in the golden desert light.
Book Your Phoenix Family Photography Session
Still not sure what to wear? No worries! I’m happy to help guide you through outfit choices to make sure you look and feel your best. Contact me here to schedule your Phoenix family photography session, and let’s create something beautiful together!
Looking for the best places for your session? Check out my list of popular Phoenix family photography locations to find the perfect spot for your shoot!