The Must-Have Hair Products for Family Photos in Austin’s Crazy Weather
Let’s be real — Austin weather can be unpredictable at best. One minute it’s hot and humid, and the next, we’re pulling out scarves for that chilly, dry breeze. So when you’re prepping for a family photoshoot, the last thing you want is to spend all that time on your hair just for it to frizz out or fall flat. I’ve got you covered, though! I asked my amazing hair stylist Miranda McGuire (yes, that is her pictured above – photo by yours truly!) to share her recommendations for the best hair products to use for family photoshoots in less than perfect weather.
With a few key products in your corner, you can have hair that looks polished and stays in place, no matter what Texas weather throws at you. Here’s Miranda’s go-to lineup of hair heroes that’ll help you rock that photoshoot vibe, rain or shine.
Hair Product: Goldie Locks Ultra Hydrating Hair Mask
Perfect for: Hot, Humid Days
When the Austin heat kicks up, you’ll want to make sure your hair stays hydrated and frizz-free. This ultra-hydrating mask is like a tall drink of water for your hair — it deeply moisturizes, tames flyaways, and leaves your hair feeling soft and smooth. Pop this on the night before your shoot for some serious hydration, and say goodbye to frizz.
Miranda-Style Pro Tip: Use it once a week in the lead-up to your photoshoot. The more hydrated your hair is, the better it’ll hold up in the heat!
Hair Product: Shu Uemura Wata Wave
Perfect for: Dry, Hot Days
When it’s hot and dry, this is your go-to for texture and volume that won’t quit. The Shu Uemura Wata Wave is amazing for creating those effortless beachy waves — you know, the kind where it looks like you just rolled out of bed but in a really cute, Pinterest-worthy way. It gives lightweight hold without weighing you down, even when the temps are soaring.
Miranda-Style Pro Tip: Spritz this on dry hair for that perfectly tousled, carefree look. It’s ideal if you’re going for that “I woke up like this” vibe!
Hair Product: Goldie Locks Blow Dry Spray
Perfect for: Muggy, Humid Weather
Let’s be honest: humidity and hair are not always friends. But this blow dry spray? It’s your secret weapon. Not only does it cut down on blow-dry time (hello, time-saver!), but it also keeps your hair smooth and frizz-free. Use this when you’re battling muggy weather — your hair will thank you.
Miranda-Style Pro Tip: Spritz on damp hair before blow-drying to lock in smoothness and fight frizz. It’ll give you that sleek, polished look even when the air feels like soup.
Hair Product: Goldie Locks Smoothing Cream
Perfect for: Windy Days (or Just Bad Hair Days)
Ever step outside on a windy day and feel like your hair instantly becomes a frizzy mess? Yep, been there. Enter the Goldie Locks Smoothing Cream. This stuff is magic for taming flyaways and giving your hair that sleek, glossy finish. Whether it’s windy or you just need a little extra shine, this will be your best friend on shoot day.
Miranda-Style Pro Tip: Work a small amount through damp hair for a smooth blowout, or run it through dry hair to add shine and keep those flyaways in check.
Hair Product: Living Proof Advanced Clean Dry Shampoo
Perfect for: Quick Fixes Between Washes
Raise your hand if you’ve ever had a last-minute photoshoot pop up and no time to wash your hair. 🙋♀️ This dry shampoo from Living Proof is a game-changer. It doesn’t just soak up oil — it actually cleans your hair, leaving it feeling fresh and bouncy without that gritty, powdery residue. Perfect for when you’re in a pinch but still want your hair to look amazing.
Miranda-Style Pro Tip: Spray it on at your roots, let it sit for a minute, then brush through. Instant refresh, and no one will ever know you didn’t wash it that morning!
Hair Product: Goldie Locks Ultimate Duo
Perfect for: Cold, Dry Days
When that cold front rolls in, your hair can feel as dry as the air. The Goldie Locks Ultimate Duo (Hydrating Shampoo + Conditioner) is a total lifesaver. This duo works together to lock in moisture and keep your hair hydrated, soft, and shiny — even when the weather is dry and brittle. Use this in your regular routine during Austin’s colder months, and you’ll be ready for any shoot with healthy, nourished hair.
Miranda-Style Pro Tip: Start using this duo a couple of weeks before your photoshoot to make sure your hair is hydrated and photo-ready, no matter how cold it gets!
Final Thoughts
We can’t always predict the weather, but we can prepare for it. Whether it’s blazing hot, sticky humid, or bone-dry cold, these products will have your hair looking flawless for your next family photoshoot. So, go ahead — tackle that Austin weather like a pro and feel confident that your hair will look amazing in every shot!
If you liked these tips, check out: Joanna Hathcock’s Make Up Dos and Don’ts and/or My Family Outfit Inspo for my favorite locations to shoot at in Austin!
