How to Dress for Spring Portraits
Spring is one of my busiest times of year as a photographer, and senior, engagement, and family portraits are a huge reason. If you have one booked with me or another photographer, read the tips below to help you plan your outfits for your portrait session, and then take a look at some of my favorite Spring portrait color palettes from some of my previous sessions!
First…think about the purpose for these photos! If they will be used as canvases in your home, make sure your clothing choices don’t clash with your home decor!
As for color choices, think about the colors at the setting where you will be having your photos made. Soft, pastel colors or neutrals will blend better with a flowery backdrop, while either pastel or bold, bright colors can work well in a greener setting. Different shades of the same color or neutrals with pops of color also work well. Black is usually too overpowering for a Springy backdrop, but navy paired with pastels can create a beautiful palette!
Avoid being too matchy-matchy. Coordinating colors and prints, as long as they aren’t too busy and don’t clash, are your best bet for a well-dressed Spring portrait!
Ladies…long dresses and skirts that flow and create movement help make beautiful photos!
Think about the different poses you may be asked to try out. You might be standing, sitting, kneeling, facing the camera, turned around so that the camera can see your back… Are your clothes too short? Too low cut? Too tight? Pick the most flattering styles!
Sometimes the weather can be tricky in the Spring, and it may be cooler than you expect. Avoid the heavy coats, and instead, wear light layers, like sweaters, cardigans, or button-down shirts to keep warm. You can always take the layers off right before you get in front of the camera and throw them back on between shots!
Shoes matter! Think about the venue. Will you need to walk a lot through forests or grassy areas? If so, bring comfortable shoes, or better yet, an extra pair so that you don’t get your nicer shoes dirty!
Accessorize, accessorize, accessorize! Bring long necklaces, fun earrings, hats, scarves, and picnic blankets to sit on!
Avoid branding or words on your clothing (it can be distracting and get cut off depending on poses).
Does anyone in your group wear glasses? Try popping out the lenses beforehand, if possible. Transition lenses in any outdoor lighting can make you look like you’re wearing sunglasses, and regular glasses often produce a glare.
And one last tip: if everyone in the group can’t try on their outfits at the same time, at least lay them out to make sure they look good together!
Kimberly Cauble is a teacher and wedding & portrait photographer who has been photographing weddings, couples, seniors, and families in the Charlotte area since 2012. She loves capturing joyful, genuine moments for people in order to create lasting memories and keepsakes!