One of the most common questions I receive from clients is: „What should we wear for our photoshoot?” It’s a great question because your outfit choices significantly impact how your photos turn out. After years of photographing people on Zanzibar’s beaches, I’ve learned exactly what works (and what doesn’t) in this tropical paradise.
This guide will help you choose the perfect outfits for stunning beach photos that you’ll treasure forever.
Why Your Outfit Matters
Your clothing choices affect:
- How you photograph: Certain colors and fabrics look better on camera
- Your comfort: Zanzibar is hot! Uncomfortable clothing shows in your body language
- The overall aesthetic: Your outfit should complement the beach setting, not compete with it
- Timelessness: You want photos that look beautiful years from now, not dated
Best Colors for Beach Photography
Colors That Work Beautifully:
White and Cream
- Classic, timeless, and romantic
- Creates a clean, elegant look
- Reflects light beautifully
- Complements the natural beach tones
- Perfect for: Couples, honeymoons, elegant portraits
Soft Pastels
- Light pink, baby blue, lavender, mint green
- Feminine and romantic
- Photograph beautifully in golden hour light
- Perfect for: Women’s portraits, family photos, romantic couples
Earth Tones
- Beige, tan, soft brown, olive green
- Harmonize with the natural environment
- Create a warm, organic feel
- Perfect for: Natural, bohemian style, family sessions
Bright, Vibrant Colors
- Coral, turquoise, sunny yellow, bright blue
- Pop against the beach backdrop
- Create energetic, joyful photos
- Perfect for: Fun, playful sessions, fashion shoots
Colors to Avoid:
Neon Colors
- Too harsh and distracting
- Can reflect unflattering light on your skin
- Draw attention away from your face
All Black
- Absorbs heat (uncomfortable in tropical sun)
- Can look heavy and harsh against bright beach settings
- Exception: Black works for fashion/editorial shoots or as an accent
Very Busy Patterns
- Large logos, bold graphics, busy prints
- Distract from your faces
- Can create visual chaos in photos
- Exception: Subtle patterns or textures are fine
Bright Red
- Can reflect red tones onto your skin
- Very difficult to color-correct in editing
- Often photographs differently than it appears in person
Fabric Choices That Photograph Well
Best Fabrics:
Flowing, Lightweight Materials
- Linen, cotton, chiffon, silk
- Move beautifully in the ocean breeze
- Create romantic, dynamic photos
- Keep you cool in the heat
Textured Fabrics
- Lace, crochet, embroidery
- Add visual interest without being busy
- Photograph with beautiful detail
- Create dimension in photos
Fabrics to Avoid:
Heavy, Stiff Materials
- Don’t move naturally
- Uncomfortable in heat
- Can look bulky on camera
Shiny, Reflective Fabrics
- Satin, polyester, metallic materials
- Create harsh reflections and hot spots
- Difficult to edit properly
Wrinkled Fabrics
- Look messy and unprofessional
- Distract from the overall image
Outfit Ideas by Session Type
For Couples & Honeymoons
Her:
- Flowing maxi dress in white, cream, or soft pastels
- Off-shoulder or spaghetti strap styles (very romantic)
- Bohemian lace dress
- Light, airy fabrics that move in the breeze
Him:
- Linen shirt (white, cream, or light blue)
- Light-colored trousers or chinos
- Rolled-up sleeves for casual elegance
- Barefoot or light sandals
Coordination Tip: Choose complementary colors, not matching. If she wears white, he could wear cream or light blue.
For Families
Parents:
- Coordinate colors within a palette (e.g., whites, creams, and soft blues)
- Avoid everyone wearing the exact same thing
Children:
- Comfortable, movable clothing (they need to play!)
- Light colors that won’t show every grain of sand
- Simple, classic styles
- Barefoot is perfect for kids on the beach
Family Color Palette Examples:
- Whites, creams, and tans
- Soft blues and whites
- Pastels with white accents
For Solo Travelers & Fashion Shoots
Women:
- Flowing maxi dress or midi dress
- Wide-brimmed hat (very photogenic!)
- Kimono or light cover-up over swimwear
- Statement jewelry (keep it simple and elegant)
Men:
- Linen shirt (can be unbuttoned for casual look)
- Light trousers or shorts
- Simple, clean style
For Proposals
For Him:
- Smart casual: linen shirt and trousers
- Light, neutral colors
- Look put-together but not overly formal
For Her:
- Whatever she’d naturally wear (you want her to feel like herself!)
- If you can influence it: flowing dress in light colors photographs beautifully
Styling Details That Make a Difference
Accessories
What Works:
- Simple, elegant jewelry
- Flower crowns or fresh flowers in hair
- Wide-brimmed hats (for women)
- Sunglasses (for candid shots, remove for portraits)
What Doesn’t Work:
- Large, chunky jewelry that distracts
- Baseball caps (create harsh shadows on face)
- Watches and fitness trackers (remove for timeless look)
Hair & Makeup
Hair:
- Beach hair is beautiful! Embrace natural texture
- Loose, flowing styles work better than tight updos
- Expect wind – don’t fight it, work with it
- Hair down or soft, loose styles photograph best
Makeup:
- Natural, glowing skin
- Waterproof everything (heat, humidity, possible water play)
- Slightly more than everyday makeup (camera needs definition)
- Avoid heavy, matte makeup – it can look flat
Footwear
Best Choice: Barefoot!
- Most natural and comfortable for beach
- No tan lines or shoe marks in photos
If You Must Wear Shoes:
- Simple, flat sandals
- Neutral colors
- Easy to slip off for some shots
Avoid:
- Sneakers (unless it’s your style/brand shoot)
- Heels (sink in sand, uncomfortable)
- Bright, colorful shoes that distract
What to Bring (Beyond Your Outfit)
Consider a Second Outfit
Bringing two outfits adds variety to your photos:
Outfit 1: Elegant and romantic (flowing dress, linen shirt) Outfit 2: Casual and playful (casual dress, shorts and t-shirt)
Quick changes on the beach are easy – I’ll give you privacy or we can use your hotel.
Essential Items
- Sunscreen (apply 30+ minutes before shoot to avoid white cast)
- Water (stay hydrated!)
- Hairbrush/comb (for touch-ups)
- Makeup for touch-ups (blotting papers, powder, lipstick)
- Any props you want (champagne, flowers, signs, etc.)
Special Considerations for Zanzibar
Cultural Sensitivity
Zanzibar is a predominantly Muslim island. While beach areas are tourist-friendly and relaxed:
- On the beach: Swimwear, shorts, and casual clothing are perfectly fine
- In Stone Town or villages: Dress more modestly (covered shoulders and knees)
- At your resort: No restrictions
For beach photoshoots in tourist areas, wear what makes you comfortable and confident.
Weather & Timing
Hot Sun (Midday):
- Light colors keep you cooler
- Breathable fabrics essential
- Bring water!
Golden Hour (Sunrise/Sunset):
- Cooler temperatures
- Softer light is more forgiving
- Most comfortable time for photos
Possible Wind:
- Embrace it! Flowing fabrics look beautiful in wind
- Avoid styles that require constant adjustment
- Secure hats if you’re wearing them
Common Outfit Mistakes to Avoid
1. Overthinking It
Simple, comfortable, and authentic always wins. Don’t wear something that doesn’t feel like „you” just because you think it will photograph well.
2. Brand New Clothes
Wear your outfit at least once before the shoot to ensure:
- It fits comfortably
- You can move in it
- It doesn’t need constant adjustment
3. Uncomfortable Shoes
If you’re wearing shoes, make sure they’re comfortable. Discomfort shows in your face and body language.
4. Forgetting About the Heat
Zanzibar is HOT. Heavy fabrics and dark colors will make you uncomfortable, and that will show in photos.
5. Too Many Outfit Changes
One or two outfits maximum. Too many changes eat into shooting time and can feel rushed.
My Professional Recommendations
After photographing hundreds of sessions on Zanzibar’s beaches, here’s what consistently works best:
For Couples:
- Her: White or cream flowing maxi dress
- Him: White or light blue linen shirt with cream/tan trousers
- Both barefoot
- Result: Timeless, romantic, elegant
For Families:
- Coordinated color palette (whites, creams, soft blues)
- Comfortable, casual clothing
- Everyone barefoot
- Result: Natural, cohesive, joyful
For Solo Portraits:
- Flowing dress or elegant casual wear
- Light, neutral colors or one vibrant accent color
- Minimal accessories
- Result: Stunning, magazine-worthy images
Final Thoughts: Confidence is Your Best Accessory
The most important thing you can wear is confidence and comfort. When you feel good in what you’re wearing, it shows in your photos. Your genuine smile, relaxed body language, and natural joy are more important than any outfit.
Choose clothing that:
- Makes you feel beautiful/handsome
- Reflects your personality
- Allows you to move and be comfortable
- Won’t require constant adjustment
Trust the process, trust your photographer, and trust yourself.
Ready for Your Zanzibar Photoshoot?
Now that you know what to wear, you’re one step closer to stunning beach photos! I’ll handle the creative direction, location scouting, and perfect lighting – you just need to show up feeling confident and ready to have fun.
Let’s create something beautiful together.
Contact me on WhatsApp: +48515710975
View my portfolio: www.makamezanzibar.com
Follow for inspiration: @makame_zanzibar on Instagram
View my portfolio: www.makamezanzibar.com
Follow for inspiration: @makame_zanzibar on Instagram