What to wear for your Spring Photo Shoot
I’m so excited that I now have my permit to photograph families on Parks Trust Land in Milton Keynes. I’ve missed doing outdoor photo shoots since moving here in 2021 and can’t wait to get started again.
Spring is one of my busiest times of the year for family photo sessions.
The weather is mild, and we have some beautiful locations we can use in and around MIlton Keynes. I can’t wait for the blossom in Tattenhoe Valley Park to bloom again in May. It makes for the most amazing backdrops for your family portraits.
One issue that always comes up around spring sessions is how you should style your family - what should you wear? Choosing the right outfit for your spring photoshoot can be a challenge. Here are some tips to help you select the perfect outfit.
Consider the location: The location of your photoshoot will play a big role in determining what you should wear. If you choose a studio session, you’ll make different clothing choices than if we are shooting on location. If we’re outside, layer up, spring can still be chilly, but avoid bulky items like puffy coats, which make it difficult to define your shapes.
Think about the colours: Spring is an opportunity to include bright, cheerful colours in your clothing. This doesn’t necessarily mean choosing something bold - bright pastels work equally as well at this time of year
Be careful with patterns: Patterns are a great way to add some interest to your photos but avoid really bold patterns that will distract from your images. If you do choose to include some pattern, make sure it’s one or two pieces across family members that coordinate. Clashing patterns will work against you!
Accessorize: Accessorizing is a great way to add some personality to your photos. Consider wearing a statement necklace, a wide-brimmed hat, or a colourful scarf.
Co-ordinate, don’t ‘twin’: It can be a fine balance to make sure your family all co-ordinate without dressing everybody exactly the same. You also want each family member to be able to show a little of their own personality. The key to a coordinating wardrobe is to choose one or two shades and base your whole palette around those. For example, you might choose navy and cream but let each family member wear their own style of clothes within that palette, adding little splashes of a brighter colour or a pastel to suit them.
Comfort is key when it comes to photoshoots. You'll want to choose an outfit that you can all move and pose in easily. Avoid anything too tight or restrictive.
Dress for the weather: Make sure you're dressed appropriately for the weather on the day of your photoshoot. If it's warm, opt for lightweight fabrics. If it's cooler, consider layering with a cardigan or jacket. I know it’s tempting to dress as summery as possible but Spring can still be a bit chilly and if your child gets cold they will definitely tell you and it will show on their face! Even if it’s warm in the sun, when we’re in the shade like in Howe Park Woods it can still get quite chilly.
Don't forget footwear: Your footwear is just as important as your clothing when it comes to outdoor photoshoots. Consider wearing shoes that complement your outfit and that you can walk and pose in comfortably. Some locations have paved footpaths but others are a little more uneven. Feel free to ask me about this when you book.
If you’d like some inspiration, I have a brilliant Pinterest board Here that will give you tons of inspiration for dressing to coordinate for your photo shoot.
By following my tips, you'll be sure to have an amazing photo shoot and some beautiful, memorable photos to treasure for years to come.