When preparing for your Hawkes Bay photoshoot, choosing what to wear is one of the most important steps. Neutrals like beige, grey, soft whites, and earthy tones create a timeless, natural look that keeps the focus on your family’s connection. Pair these with textures like linen, knits, or denim to add depth and interest to your photos.

Pregnant mum with family on Te Mata Peak mountain at sunset, photographed by Hawkes Bay photographer
1. Muted Tones for a Cohesive Hawkes Bay Photoshoot Look

Muted tones — such as dusty blush, sage green, or soft mustard — work beautifully for family photoshoots in Hawkes Bay. These subtle colours blend harmoniously and photograph wonderfully against natural backdrops.

If you want to add a pop of colour, stick to a palette of 3-4 tones that complement each other. For example, soft neutrals combined with muted earth tones like olive green or terracotta can add warmth and personality, keeping your family’s look cohesive for your Hawkes Bay photoshoot.

Family portrait with pregnant mum on Te Mata Peak at sunset, photographed by Hawkes Bay photographer
Pregnant mum cuddling toddler with family, photographed by Hawkes Bay photographer

2. Coordinate, Don’t Match: What to Wear for Your Hawkes Bay Family Photoshoot

Your family’s outfits don’t need to be identical; they just need to work well together. Instead of matching exactly, aim for coordinating pieces that complement each other’s colours and textures.

For example, one family member might wear a beige linen dress, another a soft grey knit sweater with jeans, and someone else a muted green shirt. Pairing light tops with darker pants (or the reverse) creates contrast and balance in your photos.

Pregnant mum and family on Ocean Beach with toddler in air, photographed by Hawkes Bay photographer
Family holding hands on Ocean Beach with pregnant mum, photographed by Hawkes Bay photographer

3. What to Avoid Wearing for a Hawkes Bay Photoshoot

Avoid logos or large prints — they can distract from the timeless feel of your images. Stick to solid colours or subtle, classic patterns.

Also, while casual is comfortable, a photoshoot is a special occasion! Ditch the worn-out T-shirt and consider a long, floaty dress or sheer fabric, which can create stunning movement and let the light filter beautifully through your outfit. Check out my client wardrobe collection for mums for some inspiration! Check out my client wardrobe choices for mums here!

4. Add Texture to Your Hawkes Bay Photoshoot Outfits

Textures like linen, chunky knits, or sheer fabrics photograph beautifully and add depth to your images. Layering textures throughout your family’s outfits creates subtle variety and visual interest.

Examples include:

  • A flowy linen dress paired with a knit cardigan
  • Sheer fabric for light, airy movement
  • Denim or corduroy for grounding, textured contrast
Girl running on Waipatiki Beach, photographed by Hawkes Bay photographer
Girl holding brother on Waipatiki Beach, photographed by Hawkes Bay photographer
Mum and dad at Waipatiki Beach sunset, photographed by Hawkes Bay photographer
Boy running on Waipatiki Beach at sunset, photographed by Hawkes Bay photographer
Brother and sister sitting looking at each other on Waipatiki Beach, photographed by Hawkes Bay photographer

5. Start Your Outfit Planning With What to Wear for Your Hawkes Bay Photoshoot

To plan your family’s wardrobe for your Hawkes Bay photoshoot, start with your own outfit first. Choose something that makes you feel confident and beautiful — whether it’s a flowy dress, a cozy knit, or a classic linen shirt. Then, coordinate the rest of your family’s outfits around your chosen palette and style. Check out the client wardrobe for mums here!

Toddler looking at sunset sunflowers in Hawkes Bay field, photographed by Hawkes Bay photographer
Couple cuddling in sunflower field at sunset in Hawkes Bay, photographed by Hawkes Bay photographer

Timeless Palettes That Work Well for Hawkes Bay Photoshoots

Here are some tried-and-true colour combinations to inspire your family’s look:

  • Earthy neutrals: Beige, cream, olive green, rust
  • Muted autumn tones: Mustard yellow, burnt orange, soft brown, grey
  • Soft naturals: Sage green, dusty blush, white, denim blue

Quick Tips for a Beautifully Coordinated Look

  • Use muted tones: Subtle colours create a calm, beautiful aesthetic
  • Layer up: Cardigans, wraps, and jackets add warmth and texture
  • Dress up: A long, flowy dress or skirt adds elegance and movement
  • Mix textures: Combine linen with chunky knits or sheer fabrics
  • Stay weather-ready: Keep everyone comfortable, especially in cooler seasons

Your Hawkes Bay photoshoot is a chance to capture your family’s story authentically and timelessly. By focusing on neutrals, muted tones, and textures, you’ll create images you’ll treasure for years.

For more styling tips or to explore my client wardrobe collection, click here!

Family enjoying sunset in sunflower field in Hawkes Bay, photographed by Hawkes Bay photographer

Your photoshoot is a chance to capture your family’s story authentically and timelessly. By focusing on neutrals, muted tones, and textures, you’ll create images you’ll treasure for years.

For more styling tips or to explore my client wardrobe collection, click here!


Ready to plan your Hawkes Bay family photoshoot? Check out my Family Session Pricing to find the perfect package for your family’s needs. When you’re ready to book or have questions, feel free to get in touch here. I’m excited to help capture your family’s special moments with style and warmth!

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What to Wear for a Hawkes Bay Photoshoot: Family Outfit Ideas

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