Planning Houston Family Photos for the Summer

Let’s be honest: Houston summers are not for the faint of heart. Between the triple-digit heat and the humidity that frizzes hair faster than you can say “Cheese!”, most families aren’t exactly lining up to stand in a sun-drenched field with overtired kids and sweat stains for Houston family photos. And I get it. Really, I do.

But that doesn’t mean summer family photos are off the table. With a little creativity (and maybe a little air conditioning), we can absolutely make magic happen—and look good doing it. This blog is all about choosing the right colors for your family’s summer session, whether you’re braving the heat outdoors or soaking up the sweet, cool calm of a studio.

Summer Photos in a Portrait Studio Houston TX

Here’s the thing about summer in Houston that us locals know to be true: it’s really hot. And if the idea of sweating through your dress while bribing a toddler with fruit snacks sounds like a hard pass, you’re not alone. The good news is, you’ve got options that don’t involve sweating in an open field. 

Many of my clients opt for studio sessions in the summer—and honestly, they’re dreamy. Two of my favorite indoor options are:

1. The Lumen Room in Downtown Houston – Bright, modern, and full of natural light.
2. Celestial Studio in Tomball, TX – Cozy and versatile with a variety of textures and setups.

Outdoor Summertime Houston Family Photos

If studio photos aren’t your style, look at waterfront family photo locations instead.  Summertime is the perfect time to plan family photos near a lake, creek, or even at a splash pad.  Why is this option great for families? First and foremost, you get much needed reprieve from the relentless triple-digit heat.  Aside from that, water can create great opportunities for really fun, candid family photos where everyone is laughing & enjoying each other.  I’ve found that kids are easily entertained by splashing or skipping rocks, which makes for a less-stressful family session for parents. Want to see some examples? Take a look at this blog!

Wardrobe Color Palettes for Summer Family Photos

Whether you’re braving the heat for a golden hour field session or enjoying the air conditioning inside a bright studio, the right color palette can make all the difference in your photos. When it comes to planning your Houston family photo wardrobe, I have a few tips in mind where color palettes are concerned.

Pastels

Soft, pastel tones like blush pink, buttery yellow, sky blue, and sage green tend to photograph beautifully in both natural and indoor light. They add a gentle pop of color without stealing the spotlight. In outdoor settings, they complement the landscape without clashing or blending in too much. Side note: Be especially mindful of the shade of green you choose for an outdoor session.  You could very well create a green-screen effect, and believe me when I say no one looks good as a floating head.

Neutrals

Neutral colors like cream, white, beige, and light tan are always a safe bet. These shades look timeless, let your family’s connection shine through, and work well with any backdrop, indoors or outdoors. If you love warmer hues, consider muted versions like rust, terracotta, or soft peach instead of bold primary reds or oranges, which can feel overpowering in photos. 

Colors to Avoid for Summer Family Photos

1. Neon shades (like bright yellow, lime, or hot pink) tend to clash with natural landscapes and cast color onto skin in indoor light.
2. True blues and purples can get lost in fields of flowers, blending into the background too much.
3. Grassy greens might sound earthy, but they often make you disappear into the landscape like a floating head on a green screen. I bring this one up again to make sure it sticks!
4. Black, while classic, can look too harsh—especially under natural summer light—and may create unflattering contrast.

At the end of the day, you want a look that feels like you, but also lets your surroundings shine. A little planning goes a long way, and when in doubt, I’m always happy to help guide your outfit choices!

Embracing Texture for Family Portraits Houston TX

When planning family wardrobes, color is just the start. Summer sessions are the perfect time to lean into texture—a personal favorite of mine. Think gauzy linen dresses, cotton overalls, raw hems, woven sandals, and loose, flowy silhouettes. Texture adds depth and movement to photos, especially when hair is up and the kids are barefoot and twirling. This is one of the simplest way to add interest and variety to your photos! 

The Woodlands Family Photographer

Hey, I’m Mel, a Houston family photographer serving Cypress & The Woodlands. If you’re looking for photos of your crew that are candid and depict your favorite people the way you see them– you’re in the right place. Whether you want photos outdoors, in your home, or in the comfort of a studio, I offer flexibility and multiple packages to suit your family’s needs. You can take a look at those options here & when you’re ready to book, you can reach me here. Let’s capture your family in a way that you can look back on for years to come!