What Should You Wear for a Beach Photoshoot in Hawaii

Relaxed. Natural. Beautiful. Here’s how to dress the part.

Hawaii beaches don’t need much help. They’re already breathtaking. But when it comes to your photos, what you wear can shape the whole look and feel. Whether you’ve booked a sunrise session at Waikiki or a golden hour shoot on the East Shore, the right outfit helps you feel confident, comfortable, and totally yourself.

Choosing What to Wear for Your Beach Photoshoot in Oʻahu

Start with These Three Words: Simple, Soft, and Flowing

Think breathable fabrics. Imagine natural tones. Think about clothes you can move in. The goal isn’t to dress up but to feel at ease and let the surroundings do the rest.

For women:

• Maxi dresses that move with the breeze

• Linen or cotton tops paired with light skirts or flowy pants

• Soft neutrals like ivory, blush, tan, sage, or dusty blue

For men:

• Linen button-ups or neutral-colored tees

• Khaki or linen shorts

• Rolled sleeves, open collars, whatever feels relaxed

For kids:

• Keep it easy: rompers, sundresses, or simple tees with shorts

• Stick to soft fabrics and no loud patterns

Stick to a Muted Color Palette

The ocean, the sand, and the sky already bring so much color. Your outfits should complement, not compete.

Great colors for Hawaii beach photography sessions:

• Ivory, beige, or soft white

• Dusty rose, olive, sage, pale blue

• Muted pastels (nothing too neon or bold)

Avoid heavy patterns, logos, or bright colors that pull attention. The more timeless your outfit, the more timeless your photos.

Barefoot Is Always in Style

Hawaii is barefoot-friendly. For beach photos, shoes usually aren’t needed—especially if we’re walking in the sand or splashing in the water.

If you’d like to bring sandals or go barefoot, both work beautifully. Just make sure your footwear is easy to slip on and off.

Coordinate Well

Coordinating your group doesn’t mean everyone wears the same thing. Instead, aim for complementary tones and textures.

For example:

• Mom in a flowy cream dress

• Dad in a light blue linen shirt and tan shorts

• Kids in soft beige or blush tones

It all ties together without looking forced. If you’re unsure, I’m always happy to give feedback on outfit ideas before your session.

Think About Movement

When your clothes move with you, photos seem more real. Whether it’s your dress catching the wind or your shirt billowing slightly as you walk, that sense of motion brings emotion into the frame.

So skip anything stiff or restrictive. Go for flow over formality.

Bring a Backup

Just in case: bring an extra outfit for little ones, or a backup shirt if you think someone might get wet. It’s also helpful to have a towel, hairbrush, and water handy, especially for sunrise or sunset sessions when we’re out for a while.

Final Tip: Be Yourself

An outfit that makes you feel wonderful is the best one. If you’re uncomfortable or constantly adjusting something, it’ll show. Choose clothes that feel like you, just a little elevated.

And remember, this isn’t about looking perfect. It’s about capturing your story in one of the most naturally beautiful places on earth.

Need Help Choosing What to Wear?

When you book your session, I’ll send you a full prep guide with wardrobe suggestions tailored to your shoot time and location. You can also text or email me your outfit options. I’ll help you pick what photographs best in Hawaii’s light and landscape.

Ready to book your beach session in Oʻahu?

Let’s create something beautiful, barefoot, and completely you.