Spring is one of the most popular times of year for family photo shoots. The weather is warmer, flowers are blooming, and everything feels fresh and new. When planning your spring family photos, one of the most important considerations is what to wear.
Match the Season
When choosing outfits for spring family photos, you’ll want to select colors and styles that embody the season. Some popular springtime colors include:
- Pastels – Soft pink, mint, lavender, pale yellow, etc.
- Floral prints – Choose delicate floral patterns in springtime hues.
- Earth tones – Taupe, light brown, olive green, etc.
- Bright colors – Spring is a time of renewal, so don’t be afraid to incorporate some bold colors like emerald, coral, or turquoise.
You’ll also want to choose lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, and chiffon. These will be much more comfortable for outdoor spring photo sessions.
Coordinate, Don’t Match
When dressing the family for photos, you want the look to be cohesive without being overly matchy-matchy. Here are some tips to coordinate your outfits:
- Pick a color scheme and allow each person to select their own outfit in that palette.
- Choose complimentary patterns and textures that work well together.
- Having one person wear a statement print while the rest of the family wears solids can look very pulled-together.
- Tie the looks together with other matching elements like accessories and shoes.
Style Tips for Family Members
To help each family member look and feel their best in the photos, keep these styling tips in mind:
| Family Member | Style Tips |
|---|---|
| Mom | – Flattering necklines (v-neck, wrap, scoop neck, etc.) – Dresses and skirts with defined waistlines – Soft, flowing fabrics like chiffon or crepe – Statement jewelry |
| Dad | – Polos, casual button-ups or sweaters – Dark wash jeans or khakis – Sport coats or blazers – Leather shoes |
| Teen daughter | – Florals and pastels – Sleeveless dresses or tops – Denim jackets – Sandals, flats or slip-on sneakers |
| Younger daughter | – Bright colors and prints – Ruffles, bows, lace accents – Twirly dresses – Mary janes, sandals, or ballet flats |
| Teen son | – Solid or print button-up shirts – Dark jeans – Simple sneakers or casual shoes – Optional tie or vest |
| Younger son | – Polos, graphic tees, or dress shirts – Jeans or khaki shorts – Collared shirts under sweaters – Simple sneakers |
Layering Pieces
Spring weather can be unpredictable, so bring some lightweight layers to add and remove as needed. Some options include:
- Cardigans or knit blazers
- Denim or chambray shirts
- Lightweight scarves
- Pashmina or wrap
- Jean jacket
- Rain jacket
This allows you to modify your look if the weather changes while still looking cohesive and stylish.
Footwear Tips
Consider these factors when choosing footwear for a spring family photo shoot:
- Comfort – Choose shoes you can stand and walk in comfortably, especially if poses will be standing.
- Cohesion – Matching shoes can tie looks together, but vary styles based on age and personality.
- Seasonality – Leather sandals, slip-ons, espadrilles all evoke springtime vibes.
- Color – Neutrals like black, brown, tan, or white shoes pair well with spring palette.
- Weather – Bring options for unpredictable weather like rain boots or wool socks with sneakers.
For family photo outfits, avoid bold patterns, distracting embellishments, noisy shoes, or shoes with very high heels. You want footwear to complement the look without overpowering.
Accessorizing
Accessories like jewelry, belts, hats, and handbags can add polish to any springtime outfit. When accessorizing family looks, aim for cohesion and balance. Some tips:
- Tie looks together with one matching accessory, like matching floral hair clips for girls.
- Add pops of color with scarves, belts, or statement jewelry.
- Hats and sunglasses can add style while also serving a practical purpose.
- Keep jewelry simple and minimalistic.
- Watches, belts, and handbags should complement outfits without being distracting.
The best accessories enhance an outfit without competing for attention. Less is often more when it comes to family portraits.
Grooming and Styling
In addition to clothing, don’t neglect grooming and styling to help everyone look their best. Some tips for the day of family pictures:
- Wash and style hair – Clean, brushed hair photographs better than dirty, tangled hair.
- Simple makeup – Light foundation, mascara, and lip gloss or tint for a natural yet polished look.
- Clean nails – Freshly groomed hands photograph better.
- Shave – Men should make sure beards are neatly trimmed.
- Moisturize – Hydrate skin so you don’t look dry or washed out.
- Style men’s hair – Use gel or paste to tame flyaways.
- Set sprays – Hair and makeup sprays will help looks withstand wind or outdoor conditions.
Looking refreshed, polished, and camera-ready will set the whole family up for success.
Conclusion
Dressing a family for stylish spring photos can seem daunting, but keeping a few key principles in mind makes it manageable:
- Pick colors and styles that embody the fresh, colorful spirit of spring.
- Coordinate outfits without going overboard on matching.
- Choose versatile layers to accommodate changing weather.
- Consider comfort and mobility for standing and walking.
- Accessories should unify looks, not distract.
- Attending to grooming and styling creates a polished look.
Most importantly, let each family member’s style shine through while maintaining an overall cohesive look. With a little planning and coordination, you’ll have beautiful spring family portraits to cherish for years to come.