Sunset sessions are hands-down my most-booked time of year – and you know what? I completely understand why. There’s something magical about Centennial Beach in that last hour before the sun dips below the horizon. The light turns golden, the fields glow, and everything just looks beautiful. If you’ve seen photos from past sessions on my Instagram and thought I want that, you’re in the right place.
One of the best things you can do to set your session up for success – besides crossing your fingers and toes for a gorgeous BC summer evening – is to plan your outfits ahead of time. The right clothing choices can make a huge difference in how your photos feel, so let’s talk about what works (and what to avoid).
Tip 1: Lean into light, airy colours
Golden hour light at Centennial Beach is warm and luminous, and lighter colours absolutely shine in it. Think soft whites, creams, warm beiges, dusty blush, sage green, muted blues, and soft lavender. These tones catch the light beautifully without competing with it.
Avoid anything overly bright or neon – bold reds, electric blues, and graphic prints tend to draw the eye away from the people in the photo. Dark colours can absolutely work (navy and forest green are lovely), but aim for tones that feel soft and summery rather than heavy.
One of my favourite looks? A mix of neutrals and one gentle accent colour throughout the family. It feels intentional without looking like everyone’s in a uniform.
Tip 2: Coordinate — don’t match
Gone are the days of the family-in-matching-white-shirts photo (unless that’s your thing — no judgement!). Instead of dressing everyone identically, try picking a colour palette of two or three tones and letting each person interpret it their own way.
For example: mom in a flowy cream dress, dad in a warm beige linen shirt and tan chinos, kids in a mix of soft white and a warm blush or sage. Everyone looks like they belong together, but there’s variety and personality in the frame. This approach photographs beautifully and usually feels more natural for everyone wearing it.
Tip 3: Choose movement-friendly fabrics
Flowy works better than fitted for sunset sessions, both photographically and practically. Maxi dresses, wrap dresses, and skirts catch the breeze and create gorgeous movement in photos. For the guys, a linen or cotton button-up (untucked is great) and relaxed chinos or khakis reads as put-together but not stiff.
For little ones, rompers, sundresses, and light cotton sets are always a win. Avoid overly structured or stiff outfits — toddlers are going to run, sit in the grass, and generally do their own thing, and that should look adorable, not awkward.
Tip 4: Layer up — we’re on the coast
This one is Tsawwassen-specific and I can’t stress it enough: bring a layer. Even on a warm summer day, the breeze off the water at Centennial Beach can pick up as the sun gets lower. A light cardigan, denim jacket, or linen wrap that complements your palette can save the day (and hey, layers can look really beautiful in photos too).
If you have little ones, pack an extra layer for them as well. A happy, warm kid is infinitely more photogenic than a cold, cranky one!
Tip 5: Think about your shoes — seriously
You’ll be walking on grass, through paths, and possibly on the beach. Now is not the time for heels unless they’re the chunky, sturdy kind. Strappy sandals, white sneakers, and simple flats all look great and keep everyone comfortable. Bare feet in the grass? Also totally beautiful for the right family vibe.
If your kids are young, make sure their shoes are easy to get on and off — we sometimes do barefoot moments on the beach and you don’t want to be wrestling with laces mid-session.
Tip 6: Don’t overthink it
I know wardrobes can feel stressful, especially when you’re coordinating multiple people. But here’s the truth: the most important thing is that you feel comfortable and like yourself. If you show up relaxed and ready to have fun, that’s what’s going to shine through in your photos — no outfit can replicate that.
If you’re ever unsure about your choices, I’m always happy to take a look at photos before your session. Just reach out and send me what you’re thinking — it’s one of my favourite parts of the prep process.
Ready to book your Tsawwassen sunset session this summer? I shoot golden hour family sessions at Centennial Beach from mid-June through the beginning of September and spots fill up quickly. Send me a message here and let’s make it happen!
Eran Sudds is a Tsawwassen photographer who specializes in fun & natural sessions for you and your entire family. She is available for maternity, newborn, family portraits and headshots at locations in South Delta, or anywhere in the Lower Mainland. Contact her to book your session!
