Spring is one of the most popular (and photogenic) seasons for family photo sessions. With blooming flowers, warmer weather, and soft natural light, it’s no wonder so many families choose this time of year to update their family portraits. While I specialize in in-home sessions, we’ll sometimes venture to your front porch or backyard to take advantage of that gorgeous spring glow—no need to leave the comfort of home to get beautiful, timeless images. That said, with the ever-changing world of trends, figuring out what to wear for spring family photos can still feel like a major stressor.
Hi! I’m Natasha, the photographer behind NPS Photography. I’ve photographed hundreds of families across the D.C. area, and trust me when I say I’ve seen it all—outfits that elevate a session and others that, well, don’t age quite as gracefully. The good news? With a few simple styling tips, you can choose outfits that feel timeless, photograph beautifully, and make everyone in your crew feel comfortable and confident.
Let’s break down exactly what to wear for spring family photos so your images will feel just as fresh and beautiful years from now.
Stick to Light, Layered Neutrals with Pops of Soft Color
When planning what to wear for spring family photos, neutrals are your best friend. Think soft creams, warm taupes, gentle greys, and light denim. These tones not only photograph beautifully, but they also let the focus stay on your family, not the outfits.
To keep things visually interesting, add layers—light cardigans, denim jackets, linen button-ups, or floaty wraps. Spring weather can be unpredictable, so layers give you flexibility and texture.
Want to add a little color? Perfect! Pastels like dusty rose, sage green, soft blue, or muted lavender are lovely for spring and won’t overpower your photos. These hues play well with nature’s spring palette without competing for attention.
Avoid Logos & Loud Prints (They’ll Date the Photos)
We’ve all seen that one photo where someone’s wearing a giant brand logo or an ultra-busy pattern, and it immediately timestamps the image. One of my top tips when choosing what to wear for spring family photos is to steer clear of anything with logos, characters, or super loud prints.
Why? These design choices can be distracting and quickly look outdated. Instead, opt for subtle patterns like florals, stripes, or gingham in small doses. Think of your wardrobe as the backdrop to your connection—not the star of the show.
Think Texture Over Trend
Trendy pieces can be fun in the moment, but they often don’t stand the test of time in photos. Rather than chasing the latest fashion fad, focus on incorporating texture into your outfits. Knit sweaters, embroidered details, linen fabrics, chambray, eyelet dresses—these all bring depth and softness to your images without feeling overdone.
Texture adds visual interest without being overwhelming, and it photographs so beautifully in natural light. When clients ask me what to wear for spring family photos, I always recommend blending different textures across family members to create dimension without relying on bold patterns.
Choose Comfort for Kids (and Yourselves!)
If your toddler is tugging at an itchy dress or your son is melting down over stiff pants, no one’s going to have fun. The key to beautiful, relaxed family photos is making sure everyone feels comfortable.
When planning what to wear for spring family photos, pick outfits that fit well and feel good to move in. Kids will be running, hugging, and being their sweet chaotic selves. You want clothes that can move with them—not against them. The same goes for adults—if you’re constantly adjusting a neckline or worried about a tight waistband, it’ll show in your expression.
Pro Tip: skip brand-new shoes for kids unless they’ve had time to break them in. Blisters are not a good look (or feeling) for family photos!
Coordinate, Don’t Match
Gone are the days of everyone in white shirts and jeans. When clients ask me what to wear for spring family photos, I always encourage coordination over matching. Start with a base color palette—like neutrals + a soft pop (blush, sage, or chambray are great!)—and then build each family member’s outfit within that palette.
Aim for a mix of solids, subtle patterns, and textures to keep the look cohesive without being too “matchy-matchy.” You want everyone to look like they belong together without looking like you’re in uniform.
And remember: Mom’s outfit usually sets the tone. Pick something you love and feel beautiful in, and then style the rest of the family around it.
Plan Ahead and Try On Outfits Before Session Day
This might be the most underrated (and most important) tip when figuring out what to wear for spring family photos: Don’t wait until the night before to plan outfits.
Try on everything—yes, everything—at least a week before your session. Check for fit, comfort, stains, or tags you forgot to remove. See how the pieces look together, and make sure shoes are clean and seasonally appropriate.
Lay everything out (or even better, snap a photo of your outfits laid flat!) so you can visualize how it will look on camera. Bonus points if you let your kids wear their outfits for a bit to test for comfort and flexibility.
Planning ahead gives you peace of mind, reduces day-of stress, and lets you walk into your session feeling confident and ready.
Final Thoughts About What to Wear for Spring Family Photos
Choosing what to wear for spring family photos doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. With a little planning, a thoughtful color palette, and a focus on comfort and timeless style, you’ll end up with images you love now—and still love ten years from now.
To recap, here are your spring family photo outfit essentials:
- Stick to light neutrals with soft, seasonal pops of color
- Avoid logos and loud patterns
- Choose texture instead of trend
- Make comfort a priority (especially for the littles!)
- Coordinate your colors, don’t match outfits exactly
- Plan and prep your outfits well before session day
Still feeling unsure? Don’t worry—I’ve got you! I’m always happy to help my clients pull together a look that feels authentic to their family and looks amazing on camera.
Have questions or want to book your spring session? Let’s chat! or follow me on Instagram for outfit inspo and behind-the-scenes peeks at real D.C. family sessions!
Let’s create something timeless together!
Natasha Sewell is a family and newborn photographer plus a photographer educator and mentor. She captures family’s joyful chaos in the place they are most comfortable – home. Natasha serves Washington, DC and surrounding areas and specializes in maternity, baby, and family photography.
