So you’re thinking of new family photos in the summer…. BUT you’re dreading that scorching West Texas heat.


The kids are growing up so fast… too fast… and you’re dying to get just one decent photo of everyone before the kiddos outgrow this stage. 


Dad’s working 10-hour days… and the literal LAST thing on planet Earth 🌎 he wants to do… is be dragged to family photos in West Texas ☀️ 103-degree weather… with fussy kids… and sweat stains the size of Michael’s King Kong Burger…


You’re worried the kids will be miserable, the outfits will look awkward, and the photos will feel more like “we survived” than “we had fun.”


Yeah… I’ve been there… actually… I see this scene a lot with West Texas families.


Take a deep breath… sip a little sweet Georgia peach tea…

I’ve got some tried and tested tips to ease the stress…We’ll get your perfect photos, mama… trust me…. Not just one… a whole gallery…. I got you.


Here’s the good news… Choosing the right clothes can take a lot of that stress away and help the fam actually enjoy the session.


What I hear from West Texas Families:

  • Kids get hot and cranky fast 🫠
  • Fabrics that trap heat or show sweat 
  • Outfits feel stiff or too “matchy” instead of natural 
  • Bright sun and wind making everyone squint like we’re Clint Eastwood on the set of The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly


The goal is simple: clothes that let your fam breathe, move, and feel like themselves.


Breathable Fabrics That Actually Work in the Heat

Linen and lightweight cotton are your best friends out here. They let air flow and don’t cling when temperatures climb past 100 degrees. Heavy denim, thick polyester, or stiff new clothes usually make things worse.


Love Olive Co shares in their guide to modest summer styles that lightweight cotton, linen, and loose knits are ideal for hot weather because they keep everyone cool while still looking put-together for photos.


I’ve seen this play out in real sessions — families in breathable pieces stay happier longer and the images feel relaxed instead of forced.


Let Mom’s Dress Set the Tone

One of my favorite pieces of advice comes from Andrea Long at Dainty Jewels. She says, “Let Mom’s Dress Set the Tone.”


I love this idea so much. When Mom picks a flowing maxi or midi dress in a soft neutral, dusty blue, sage, or gentle floral, everything else can pull from those same soft colors.


It creates a cohesive look without everyone having to match exactly. Dads look great in light linen button-downs or soft cotton shirts, and kids stay comfortable in pieces they can actually play in.


You can read the full guide here


Simple Coordination Tips That Feel Natural

You don’t need everyone in the same shirt. Pick one or two main colors from Mom’s outfit and let the rest of the family echo them.


Check out Chaya De Paz (@modestfashionbychaya) — she dresses a family of five and shows how simple coordinated neutrals and light layers keep everyone looking connected without feeling restricted.


Brittany Bekas, a photographer who shoots a lot of family sessions, reminds us to prioritize comfort first. When kids feel good in what they’re wearing, they move naturally — and that’s when the best photos happen.


Steer Clear 🐮

Skip anything too tight, too dark, or too heavy. New stiff clothes can also make little ones extra fussy in the heat. Light colors, soft fabrics, and easy movement are what photograph beautifully under our strong West Texas sun.


When your fam is comfortable, the session feels easier, the smiles come natural, and you walk away with photos you actually want to frame.


If you’re thinking about family sessions in Midland Odessa this summer (or even maternity or fall minis later), I’d love to help you choose outfits that work with our West Texas weather instead of against it.


Just reach out and we’ll figure out something that feels right for your family. Let's chat?!