Why Shoes Matter – Styling Your Summer Session from the Ground Up

When it comes to family photo sessions, every little detail adds to the magic—but few things can make or break your look quite like the shoes you choose. Whether you're walking barefoot in the sand or dressing up for a golden hour shoot in the tall grass, shoes not only need to look good, but also feel good.

I’ve rounded up my must-have summer shoes for the whole family (check out the inspiration boards above!) so you can find the perfect balance of style, comfort, and session-ready polish.

Let’s break it down:

For Moms: Wedges, Braids & Feminine Details

Mama, your shoes matter just as much as your dress. I always recommend wedges for added height (without the wobble!) and flattering leg lines. Platforms are a great option if you want comfort with a little boost, while braided flats or strappy sandals are perfect if you want to keep things grounded. Look for neutral tones, woven details, and feminine touches like bows or gold accents to tie the look together.

For Dads: Casual but Clean

The key for dads? Casual summer sneakers or clean faux leather sandals that complement the outfit without overpowering it. Striped canvas sneakers or rich brown faux leather kicks keep things stylish without feeling too formal. These are great for park, beach, or urban sessions and offer comfort for chasing littles too!

For Boys: Texture, Texture, Texture

Summer is all about those earthy tones—browns, tans, and warm textures like faux leather and suede. Sneakers with a pop of texture, sandals that are cute and comfy, or slip-on loafers that look polished with minimal effort—boys’ shoes can be playful and photo-ready all in one go.

For Girls: Straps, Details & Summer Magic

Girls’ summer shoes are my favorite to style—give me bows, gold buckles, floral straps, and crochet platforms any day! I love pairing these detailed sandals with flowy dresses. They’re comfortable for running and twirling but still photo-perfect for any setting.

Bonus Tip: Always make sure your shoes are clean, well-fitted, and broken in before the session day. You want your family to feel their best—and that starts at their feet!

For easy shopping and style inspo, make sure to follow me over at @thefamilystyle_ on Instagram and on my LTK pag ewhere I link all the best looks (including splurge or save options). I’ve got your feet (and the rest of your fam) covered for summer sessions!

You can find all my shoe picks here for MOM, DAD, and KIDS!

Happy styling!