Stick to a color palette, not matching outfits

Don’t match.

Matching outfits look forced and dated. Instead, pick two or three colors that work together — navy, white, and a pop of coral, for example. Everyone wears their own version: Dad in navy shorts and a white linen shirt, Mom in a coral cover-up, kids in mix-and-match swimsuits. It ties together without looking like a catalogue.

Texture matters too. Linen, cotton, and knit cover-ups add visual interest. Avoid logos and busy patterns unless they’re the same small-scale print across the family. And skip the full-on white family — you’ll look like a cult photo.

One last thing: take the photo early in the day or late afternoon. Good light makes any outfit look better.

Future you will thank past you for not making everyone wear the same shirt.