I get it—figuring out what to wear for spring family photos can feel overwhelming. As a mom, you’re already juggling a million things, and now you have to coordinate outfits that look beautiful, timeless, and put together? It’s a lot!
But here’s the good news: it doesn’t have to be stressful. Over the years, I’ve learned a few simple tricks (from both personal experience and photographing so many families) that make choosing outfits so much easier. My goal is always to help my clients feel confident and relaxed, knowing their photos will look effortlessly classic.
So, if you’re staring at your closet feeling stuck, here’s my best advice for what to wear for spring family photos in Louisville—and how to make the process feel totally manageable.
1. Start with You (Yes, Mom!)
I always tell my moms: pick your outfit first. Let’s be real—if you feel amazing, the whole experience is going to be more enjoyable. Plus, it’s easier to coordinate the rest of the family around your look rather than scrambling to match everyone at the last minute.
A timeless, flowy dress in a soft pastel or neutral is always a winner for spring. I personally love pieces with texture—think light lace, linen, or soft embroidery—because they add beautiful dimension to photos. And if dresses aren’t your thing, a tailored blouse with a long skirt or classic trousers works just as well!
2. Keep the Color Palette Soft & Airy
Spring is all about fresh, light colors that reflect the beauty of the season. Soft pastels like blush, baby blue, sage green, and buttery yellow look stunning in photos. Neutral shades like cream, taupe, and light gray also complement spring’s natural brightness.
One of my biggest regrets from a past family session was wearing a really bold color. At the time, I thought it would pop in photos—but years later, it just feels loud and distracting. That’s why I always suggest sticking to a soft, complementary palette that enhances your family’s connection instead of competing with it.
3. Dress Dad in Classic, Simple Layers
Let’s be honest—most dads aren’t thrilled about taking photos, so let’s keep things easy for them. A light button-up shirt or sweater with well-fitted chinos is all he needs for a polished yet effortless look. Layers (like a pullover or blazer) can add texture without making it complicated.
One tip? Avoid anything with logos, graphics, or super bold patterns. Trust me, even the tiniest logo can stand out in a final image and take away from the cohesive, timeless feel of spring portraits.
4. Keep the Kids Cute and Comfortable
If there’s one thing I’ve learned as both a photographer and a mom, it’s that kids do best when they’re comfy. There’s nothing worse than an itchy outfit that makes them miserable during the session.
For little ones, I always recommend classic, heirloom-inspired clothing—smocked dresses, linen rompers, or simple overalls in soft spring colors. These styles not only photograph beautifully but also let your child move and play naturally, making the session feel more relaxed and fun.
5. Add Texture, Not Overpowering Patterns
Texture is everything in photos. Light embroidery, delicate ruffles, or a soft knit sweater can add so much depth and interest without being distracting.
If you want to incorporate a pattern, keep it subtle and have just one person wear it—like a floral dress for mom or a tiny plaid detail on your child’s outfit. The goal is to enhance the look, not overwhelm it. This is especially important when deciding what to wear for spring family photos in Louisville because softer, more natural details blend beautifully with outdoor settings.
6. Keep Accessories Minimal
Less is more when it comes to accessories. A dainty necklace, simple earrings, or a neutral headband for your daughter can add a nice touch, but anything too bold or trendy can take away from the classic look.
I once wore chunky statement earrings for a session, thinking they’d add a fun element. But in every single photo, they dominated the frame! Now, I always recommend keeping accessories understated so they complement rather than compete with your portraits.
7. Dress for the Spring Weather
Spring weather can be unpredictable, so it’s important to dress accordingly. If your session is early in the season, layering with a light cardigan or denim jacket can keep everyone comfortable without sacrificing style. Breezy dresses and breathable fabrics like cotton and linen work best as temperatures warm up.
The key? Dress for the season in a way that feels natural. You want your outfits to match the fresh, airy feel of springtime while keeping everyone comfortable throughout the session.
8. Plan Ahead (Trust Me, It Helps!)
Laying out outfits ahead of time will save you stress. I’ve been that mom frantically throwing together outfits the night before a session, and let me tell you—it’s not fun. I don’t want anything to spoil the experience of our time together, and waiting until the last minute to look at everything together can set you up for stress and bad vibes – the last emotions you want to be feeling when trying to take beautiful photos you’ve invested in.
A little preparation goes a long way. Try everything on in natural light, make sure everyone’s clothes coordinate, make sure everything FITS, and do a quick test photo on your phone. You’ll feel so much more confident walking into your session knowing everything looks just right.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, the best family photos are the ones that feel like you. The goal isn’t to look perfect—it’s to feel comfortable, connected, and present with your family.
If you ever need outfit advice, I’m always happy to help! My job isn’t just to take beautiful photos—it’s to make the experience easy and enjoyable for you.
Ready to plan your session? Let’s chat about what to wear for spring family photos in Louisville and how we can create something beautiful together!
Be the first to comment