Boston Family Photographer // What to Wear for Spring Family Photos

Spring is right around the corner! Okay, maybe not, but I know we all probably want it to be. Unless you’re a ski or snowboard buff, which I definitely am not, hah! I am really looking forward to the warmer weather and getting back outdoors with my clients! As a Boston family photographer I am often busier photographing my clients in the warmer months. The winter months are often slower, which I actually enjoy. During the winter I get a chance to slow down after the busy fall season and focus on the new year and where I want to take my business. But, around March I get that itch for warmer temps and getting to see my repeat clients again and meet my new clients!

I always have people asking me for suggestions on what to wear for photo sessions, so I love to put together these blog posts with some helpful tips and sample images. I wrote a blog with some general tips & tricks for coordinating outfits that are photogenic in general, which you can read HERE. However, this blog post will be specific to spring!

5 Tips for Putting Together Spring Photo Outfits

[ One ] ASK YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER

Okay, this sounds like a cop out, but hear me out! I promise I will be giving you tangible advice next. I always recommend checking in with your photographer because not every photographer feels the same way about clothing options and coordination. I’m assuming hoping you are hiring a photographer whose style you LOVE. An important part of curating a consistent photography brand is advising our clients on what types of clothing work well with our unique photographing and editing style.

If you adore your photographers dark and moody style, you will probably see lots of rich and vibrant outfit choices in their portfolio. On the other hand, if you’re in love with a photographer who has a light and neutral style (cough, cough that’s me) you will see families dressed in lighter more neutral colors with less contrast.

[ Two ] START WITH ONE PERSON FIRST

I always recommend starting with the person you are most excited to dress. This is general advice, but it is always the way to start. It could be yourself or it could be your baby who has developed the cutest little chunky thighs and you want to show them off. Whoever it is, start there first! It’s too overwhelming to try to think about your whole family’s clothing simultaneously.

[ Three ] CONSIDER A FRESH COLOR PALETTE

When I think of spring my mind wanders to the colors of flowers. Whites, muted greens, blush, light purples, muted yellows and light blues. Take it one step further and pair complementary colors together! Think purple and yellow, pink and green or blue and orange! I recommend limiting your family’s outfits to 2-3 colors (not counting neutrals like cream/khaki/grey) to avoid looking too busy or uncoordinated. See some examples of complementary colors below!

[ Four ] CHOOSE LIGHTER WEIGHT FABRICS & BRING LAYERS

In New England you never know what you’re going to get in terms of weather. We have days where it is 50 degrees in January, or 60 degrees in July. Mother nature is unpredictable in our area. Do your best to choose clothing that matches the season and bring lots of layers in case you need to warm up or cool down during your session! It would look a bit strange if your apple orchard blossom photos showcase your family dressed in cable knit sweaters and thick, corduroy pants (even if your session weather is chilly!). When you look back at your photos you won’t be able to tell if it was an unseasonable day.

[ Five ] BRING EXTRA SHOES

In spring sessions things can get muddy. The old saying rings true, April showers bring May flowers, but what it didn’t mention is the beautiful mud it can also bring along. Bring the shoes you want to be in your photos in a separate tote bag and don’t put them on until you get to the spot where you will actually be taking your photos! I always arrive early to my locations so that I can walk around, scope out the lighting that specific day and also to check the terrain. There’s nothing worse than muddying up all of your shoes before you even begin!

You’ve Got This!

I hope that you find this blog post helpful and inspiring as we gear up for the spring season! Keep scrolling to see some more inspiration images and links to shops & boutiques that I recommend searching for great clothing options for photo sessions!

Family & Maternity Dresses

Baltic Born

Morning Lavender

Nothing Fits But

LAIT

Ivy City Co

VICI

Mens & Womens Shirts

Gap

J. Crew

Banana Republic

Kids

Old Navy

Jamie Kay

Joyfolie

H&M

Boston Family Photographer

Corinne Isabelle is a Boston family photographer. Corinne Isabelle Photography specializes in timeless motherhood portraits, in-home or in studio focusing on genuine and authentic moments. Finding luxury in the simplicity of everyday moments.

CIP serves families in the Boston area including Boston, Jamaica Plain, Brookline, West Roxbury, Somerville, Charlestown, and more throughout with MetroWest Boston.