Styling Tips for Northern Rivers Families

Dressing the whole family for photos can be a challenge and if you’ve got tweens, you’ll know this stage comes with big opinions and even bigger personalities. The good news? With a little planning, you can find outfits that keep your kids comfortable, true to themselves, and timeless in photos.

As a family photographer in the Northern Rivers, I’ve styled shoots everywhere from the beaches of Byron Bay to rustic homesteads in Bangalow, and the same simple tips always apply.

Keep Tweens Comfortable

First and foremost — if your tween isn’t comfortable, it will show. Choose clothes that fit well, let them move freely, and feel good against their skin. Cotton, linen, and soft knits are all perfect for our warm Northern NSW climate.

Avoid Logos and Trends That Date

It’s tempting to let kids wear their favourite branded t-shirts, but logos and slogans can sometimes distract from the connection in your images. Trends also have a way of dating quickly. Instead, aim for classic pieces that will still look beautiful when you’re pulling your album out years from now.

It Doesn’t Need to Be Beige

Neutral colours photograph beautifully, but your family photo shoot doesn’t need to look like a catalogue. Tweens love colour — and the key is to choose tones that complement the rest of your family. Think earthy greens, warm rust, soft blues, or a bold pop that ties in with everyone else.

Let Them Look Like Themselves

Family photos aren’t about creating a staged version of your family — they’re about capturing who you really are. Give your tween a say in what they wear. If they feel like themselves, they’ll relax more easily, and that natural confidence shines in your photos.

Think Textures, Not Just Colours

Textures add depth and interest without overwhelming the photo. A knitted jumper, linen shirt, denim jacket, or flowy skirt can give dimension and movement, especially when we’re shooting outdoors in Byron Bay, Lennox Head, or the Northern Rivers hinterland.

Coordinate, Don’t Match

The best family photo outfits feel like they belong together without being identical. Start with a colour palette (say, earthy tones or coastal blues) and mix in textures, layers, and accessories. This way your tween’s outfit feels part of the bigger picture without cramping their style.

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In the end, the most important thing is this: your tween should feel comfortable, confident, and themselves. When you look back on your Northern Rivers family photos, you’ll want to remember who they really were in this stage — not just what they wore.