Planning your Nantucket family photo session should feel exciting, not stressful. One of the most common questions I hear from families before their session is what to wear. 

The good news is there is no one-size-fits-all answer. The best outfits are the ones that feel comfortable, photograph beautifully, and still feel like you.

And as your Nantucket family photographer, I can walk you through some tips & tricks to make it easy! 

Whether we are walking through charming cobblestone streets, exploring Sconset cottages, or chasing golden light on the beach, your outfit choices help tell the story of your time on Nantucket.

Start With a General Color Palette

The most beautiful sessions often begin with a feeling rather than a perfectly matched wardrobe. Nantucket naturally lends itself to soft coastal tones, breezy fabrics, and timeless styling. Think airy whites, faded blues, sandy neutrals, soft florals, and even bold pops of color when done intentionally.

Some families love coordinated pastels for a light and romantic beach look. Others lean into classic Americana with navy, red, crisp white, and textured layers. 

When thinking about what to wear, just know that both options photograph beautifully.

One thing to keep in mind is balance. If most of the family is dressed in soft tones, a very dark outfit can naturally draw the eye away from your faces. Instead, aim for colors that complement each other while still allowing everyone’s personality to shine through.

What to Wear: Mixing Prints, Texture, and Layers

Texture and movement photograph beautifully on Nantucket. Eyelet dresses, linen shirts, lightweight knits, and flowy fabrics add interest and depth to your images. Mixing  floral prints, striped dresses, textured sweaters, and light layers create visual interest without feeling overwhelming. 

When choosing prints, variety is key. One floral dress paired with solids or subtle patterns works beautifully. Too many matching prints can become distracting in photos (unless that coordinated look genuinely feels like your family’s style!) 

A few simple ways to elevate your outfits:

• Add sweaters or lightweight layers for a cozy coastal feel
• Incorporate texture like linen, eyelet, or knit fabrics
• Choose comfortable shoes you can easily walk in on sand or cobblestones
• Bring accessories like hats, scarves, sunglasses, or hair clips for windy beach evenings
• Coordinate pet accessories like leashes or collars if your dog is joining the session

When Deciding What To Wear…. Dress for Comfort and Connection

The best photos happen when everyone feels relaxed. Kids can move freely. Parents are not adjusting uncomfortable outfits. You can laugh, walk, cuddle, and play naturally together. Luckily this is easy to do! 

A little child swinging between parents on a quiet street or siblings cuddled close on the beach often become the images families treasure most.

If you are shopping on island before your session, a few favorite Nantucket spots include:

• Milly and Grace
• Murray’s Toggery Shop
• Grace Geier
• Pinwheels Nantucket
• Nalu Nantucket

You will also find beautiful options from brands like Southern Tide, Vineyard Vines, Hill House Home, and Faherty.

Your Session, Your Story

At the end of the day, deciding what to wear should feel personal to your family and your Nantucket experience. You can shop for something new or pull meaningful pieces from your own closet.

Start with one outfit you love and build from there.

Most importantly, choose outfits that allow you to feel confident, comfortable, and connected to the people you love most. Those are the details that always photograph beautifully.