What to Wear for Your Spring and Summer Family Photos
If you're a native Western PA-er, you'll understand the allure of the warmer spring and summer months after what feels like an eternity of cold, gray, slushy winter. And what better way to celebrate the beautiful weather than dusting off the old sandals and bringing out the sundresses for your family photos? Choosing outfits for your family photo session doesn’t have to be stressful - in fact, with a few simple tips, it can be kind of fun (yes, really) and easy-peasy lemon-squeezy. Whether you're planning a springtime stroll through Frick Park or a golden-hour adventure in a summer field, here’s how to dress in a way that feels like *you* and photographs beautifully.
1) Choose Location First
This is essential to do first. Are we going pink blossoms and flowers? Green fields? City backdrop? You want your outfits to fit the vibe of your location, and make sure they compliment each other. If we’re shooting in a green park, steer clear of too much green so you don’t blend in. If you’re going urban, think contrast—like soft tones against brick or stone.
2) Match Your Home Decor
Most of my clients take family photos every year to update their home with recent photos of their constantly growing and changing kiddos. It's also a great way to see the subtle changes from year to year (have you read my blog post on why you should update your family photos every year?). So take a look at your home and notice the colors and textures you see the most - this can be a great guide for what to wear in your photos!
3) Soft, Neutral, or Earthy Tones
Think soft blush, sage green, cream, dusty blue, or terracotta. These tones photograph beautifully in natural light and work well with Pittsburgh’s lush spring and sun-drenched summer backgrounds. Subtle textures = yes. Also, avoid heavy patterns and logos. Keep it timeless and avoid anything that distracts from your sweet faces and connections.
4) Add Movement, Layers, and Texture
Flowy dresses, linen shirts, light cardigans, etc. can add gorgeous movement and texture to your photos. And they’re comfy in spring/summer weather - especially if it gets unexpectedly breezy during our session. Cold kids = grumpy kids = grumpy photos.
5) No Matchy-Matchy
That trend died in the 90s - let's keep it there! Choose one outfit or piece of clothing that you love - maybe mom's dress, or baby's overalls - and work around that item. Choose clothing items that compliment each other and work well together. I would suggest if you were going for a more relaxed look, don't put everyone in jeans and sneakers while dad wears dress pants and a tie. Or vice versa, if you wanted a less casual look, make sure each outfit represents that. Make it cohesive!
6) Shoes Matter Too
Think clean and casual—sandals, simple flats, or we can skip the shoes and just go barefoot in the grass! Just skip the neon sneakers or character Crocs.
Final Thoughts
Spring and summer are perfect for romping around Pittsburgh and showing off your beautifully curated outfits. If you need additional help, feel free to reach out! And when you book your session with me, you'll receive my 50+ page Welcome and Style Guide that has detailed outfit guides for revery season, recommended color palettes, as well as specific outfit inspo.
