How to Stay Cool (and Look It!) During Your Texas Summer Photoshoot ☀️📸
Let’s face it—summer in Texas doesn’t just knock politely on the door. It busts in with a sunburn, a heatwave, and a gallon of sweat. And yet, some of the most gorgeous outdoor photos happen this time of year! Golden sunsets, lush green backdrops, and popsicles on porches… we LOVE a summer photoshoot. But we also love not looking like we just ran a marathon in our Sunday best.
At Smith Family Photography, we’re all about capturing joyful, natural moments—even when the weather is throwing down the heat! So here’s how to beat the Texas heat and still look amazing on camera.
🎨 1. Choose Colors That Keep Their Cool
When it comes to what to wear for a summer photoshoot, color choice is key. Darker colors might feel like a safe bet, but in Texas heat, they soak up the sun and will have you sweating bullets before we even snap the first shot. Best clothing colors for hot weather photoshoots:
Sage green, mauve, dusty rose, soft rust, and chambray blue hide sweat better than brights or lights.
Avoid light gray, bright blue, or solid white—they tend to show wet spots quickly.
Patterns like florals or subtle plaid are great at disguising sweat and keep your look interesting on camera.
🧵 2. Fabric Matters. Like, A Lot.
You want to breathe… and your clothes should, too. Skip thick, clingy materials like polyester or rayon blends. They’ll trap heat and cling in all the wrong places. Top clothing materials for summer photos:
Cotton, linen blends, and crinkled gauze keep you cooler and don’t cling.
Flowy silhouettes like maxi dresses or relaxed-fit shirts allow airflow and movement.
Avoid anything polyester, satin, or heavy—these trap heat and show sweat.
💧 3. Bring These Essentials to Stay Fresh
Being prepared makes all the difference! Here's what to pack for your Texas summer outdoor session:
Blotting papers or tissues for quick touch-ups
Matte setting spray or face powder to reduce shine
Water (bring extra!)
A mini handheld fan or cool towel for breaks
Powder deodorant to reduce white marks and moisture
Bonus tip: schedule your session for early morning or golden hour to avoid the peak heat of the day.
💇 4. Tame the Mane
Humidity in Texas is real, and it’s coming for your hair.
Soft braids, ponytails, or messy buns are great for summer portrait sessions.
Don’t forget anti-frizz serum and a brush for mid-session touch-ups.
Hats, headbands, or hair scarves make for cute photo accessories and block some sun!
📸 5. Confidence Is the Coolest Thing You Can Wear
A little shimmer on your brow? That’s just Texas sparkle. 😉 We’re here to capture the joy, not the temperature. Your attitude matters more than the forecast! As your photographer, I’ll guide you through natural, flattering poses and help keep the session light and relaxed. If we need to pause for a water break or cool-down, we will.
So there you have it—your survival guide to staying cute, confident, and camera-ready during a Texas summer photoshoot. Want help picking the perfect outfit? I’m always happy to give input when you book your session. Let’s make some magic—without melting in the process!