What to Wear for Family Photos – Charleston Edition

(From Your Favorite Hype-Woman Behind the Camera)

What to Wear for Family Photos in Charleston, South Carolina

(From Your Favorite Hype-Woman Behind the Camera)

You did it. You booked a family photo session with a Charleston photographer. Go you. But now you’re staring at your closet like it personally offended you. Been there. Tried on everything. Changed my mind 47 times.

I’m Lindsey Murphy, your go-to Charleston family photographer, and I’m here to help you look incredible without losing your mind. My goal is to make sure you feel confident, coordinated, and effortlessly stylish without matching too much or feeling awkward.

 

Charleston Style = Coastal, Classy, and Effortlessly Chic

Charleston has a dreamy, timeless charm with soft coastal light, pastel homes, cobblestone streets, and Spanish moss that practically begs to be photographed. Your outfits should flow with that vibe, not compete with it.

 

Best Color Palettes for Charleston Family Photos

Let’s skip the identical polos and go for looks that blend beautifully with Charleston’s scenery.

Coastal Neutrals: sand, cream, soft blue, sage
Southern Charm: blush, linen white, muted coral, dusty rose
Historic District Hues: navy, olive, khaki, soft gray
Beach Session Favorites: light teal, seafoam, warm ivory

Avoid neon tones that reflect light harshly, busy patterns, or bold logos. You want the focus on your faces, not your shirts.

Style Tips That Photograph Beautifully

Mix Textures. Linen, cotton, denim, and light knits always photograph well.
Coordinate Colors, Don’t Clone. Think “we look amazing together,” not “we’re in a family band.”
Add Layers and Accessories. A hat, cardigan, or scarf adds depth and texture to your look.
Keep Kids Comfortable. Soft fabrics and flexible shoes make a world of difference.
Choose Clean Shoes. Footwear shows in photos more often than you think.

Where to Shop for Charleston Photo Outfits

Here are a few favorite spots my clients love for Charleston family photo sessions:

• Mulberry & King – Trendy, coastal-chic styles for moms and littles. Mulberry & King+1

• Shrimp & Grits Kids – Adorable, timeless children’s outfits based in Charleston / Mount Pleasant. facebook.com+1

• Target (Charleston area) – Great for neutrals, basics, and kids’ layering pieces (for example their Charleston-area store). Target+1

• Vici (Collection) – Stylish women’s fashion with great seasonal pieces for photo-sessions.

Or send me your Pinterest board and I’ll help style your family before your shoot. It’s one of my favorite parts of the process.

What to Wear by Season in Charleston

Charleston weather keeps you guessing, but here’s what works year-round.

Spring: Pastels, floral prints, linen shirts, and flowy dresses
Summer: Breezy cottons, whites, and light neutrals
Fall: Warm tones, lightweight sweaters, and wide-brim hats
Winter: Jewel tones, cozy knits, and soft layers

Charleston winters are mild, so think fall vibes with a little extra warmth.

 

What Not to Wear

Neon or bright white that reflects too much light
Heavy fabrics that show sweat
Distracting logos or cartoon shirts
Everyone in the exact same outfit

Ready to Book Your Charleston Family Photos

If you’re looking for a fun, laid-back family photographer in Charleston, South Carolina, who hypes you up, helps with outfits, and captures your family’s real energy, you found her.

Let’s turn your crew into a Pinterest-worthy moment.
Click here to book your Charleston family photo session with Lindsey Murphy Photography.