What to Wear for Spring Photos | Austin Family Photographer

If you’re wondering what to wear for spring photos, you’re definitely not alone. This is one of the biggest stress points I hear from moms, especially the ones juggling work, school schedules, and about a million tabs open in their brains. (Hi, it’s me too!) Spring outfits can go in so many directions, and that freedom can feel overwhelming instead of fun. My goal is always to make this part feel clear and easy. 

Let’s start with the biggest rule of thumb.

Skip neons, super bright colors, and reds in particular. These tend to pull attention away from faces and don’t photograph as softly as you might hope. The red can also cast a weird hue on your faces, and no one wants that.

Instead, think cohesive neutrals. Colors that play well together and don’t shout for attention. If you want that light, spring feel: lean into muted greens, creams, dusty rose, soft lilac, or warm beige tones. These colors feel fresh without overpowering the moment.

If you’re wondering what to wear for spring photos, you’re definitely not alone. This is one of the biggest stress points I hear from moms, especially the ones juggling work, school schedules, and about a million tabs open in their brains. (Hi, it’s me too!) Spring outfits can go in so many directions, and that freedom can feel overwhelming instead of fun. My goal is always to make this part feel clear and easy. 

Let’s start with the biggest rule of thumb. Skip neons, super bright colors, and reds in particular. These tend to pull attention away from faces and don’t photograph as softly as you might hope. The red can also cast a weird hue on your faces, and no one wants that.

Instead, think cohesive neutrals. Colors that play well together and don’t shout for attention. If you want that light, spring feel: lean into muted greens, creams, dusty rose, soft lilac, or warm beige tones. These colors feel fresh without overpowering the moment.

What to Wear for Spring Photos

One of my favorite ways to elevate a look is through texture, not color. This is where outfits start to feel intentional without being overdone. Cable knit sweaters, corduroy, overalls, denim, or soft fabrics like linen and silk add visual interest in a subtle way. Texture photographs beautifully and adds depth, especially when everyone is wearing a similar color palette.

A helpful trick is to choose one outfit first, usually yours, and build everyone else’s look around that. When one outfit anchors the rest, everything feels more cohesive. You don’t need everyone matching. You just want the outfits to make sense together. Think coordinated, not identical.

When it comes to patterns, small-scale florals or subtle prints work best. Large, bold patterns can be distracting, especially on camera. For kids, I always recommend avoiding logos or characters. Those details tend to date photos quickly and pull focus away from your little one’s face. 

If you’re feeling stuck, remember this. You don’t have to get it perfect. You just need a starting point and a little guidance. That’s where I come in. I’ll help you refine choices, adjust where needed, and make sure everything feels comfortable and natural once we’re together.

At the end of the day, figuring out what to wear for spring photos should support your experience, not add to your mental load.

The goal is timeless, relaxed images that feel like you, right in this season of life.

If you’re craving a photography experience where you don’t feel alone, reach out. Let’s chat!