What to wear for a spring/summer photo session

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Now spring is finally here (yay!) I thought I would put together some top tips on what to wear for a spring/summer shoot. Most people are unsure about what exactly to wear when they book a photo session so I always try to give some tips beforehand. It’s really worth putting in a bit of thought and effort before you come along to your session as the clothes, and in particular the colours you choose, can make all the difference to the final result.

Of course what you wear does come down to your individual style and it’s important not to stray too far away from what you or your children would usually wear, otherwise you won’t feel like yourselves. If in doubt, I always suggest bringing a couple of options and I can have a quick look at what you have brought before we start.

Summery outfits here in pretty patterns which work well together and contrast with the background

Children

When it comes to deciding what the children are going to wear, there are no rules as such, but try to lean towards clothes which are more classic and timeless, which will help to ensure that the photos won’t look dated in a few years time

Try to avoid clothing with bold logos or children’s characters on (e.g. Disney’s Frozen!) or anything that is very in fashion at the moment.

It’s a good idea to bring layers for the children, you can always add them or take them off depending on the weather.

This girl looks adorable in stripes and her blue outfit contrasts nicely with the green grass and red balloons

Some suggestions for girls

  • Jeans
  • Tutu skirts
  • Classic dresses in neutral or pastel colours
  • Dresses with prints
  • Pretty cardigans
  • Leggings or knee high socks
  • Ballerina type shoes
  • Boots or wellies
  • Hats and hair accessories

Some suggestions for boys

  • Jeans or neutral coloured trousers
  • Solid t-shirt with an open shirt over it – the shirt can be plain or have a check/classic pattern in traditional colours
  • Converse style shoes or sailor shoes
  • Hats or a cap

Adults

Again, there is no right or wrong in terms of what you should wear and everyone will have their own individual style. Think spring/summer style and bring layers in case it is a bit chilly. For the mums – Jeans/trousers and a top or a dress/skirt are equally fine depending on what you prefer. If you usually wear make up then I would suggest putting some on 🙂

For the dads – jeans or trousers and a shirt, perhaps with a jumper to go over the top if needed, depending on the weather.

Choose spring/summer, white or neutral colours and the most important thing is to feel relaxed and comfortable.  If in doubt, bring a couple of options and we can take a look before we start.

Wellies and a little hair accessory – perfect! Layers for mum in case a it’s a bit chilly…

Colours and patterns

Colours are really key so try to give this some thought beforehand. Think spring/summer colours including both white and cream, which work well.

For girls you could have blues, pinks, purples as well as white and cream.

For boys, blue, white, beige, grey or other fairly neutral colours work well.

Please avoid wearing green as there will often be a lot of green in the background and also avoid black if possible.

Subtle patterns and checks are fine but avoid very strong patterns and bold prints.

Children don’t have to match each other, but here the white and subtle patterns complement each other really well.

Hair accessories just add a finishing touch. Here the colours in her hairband and blue cardigan contrast really well with the green in the background.