When the sun is finally shining and the grass turns green (for real!), it’s the perfect time to schedule a family photo session. But once you’ve booked your spot, the next question is always: “What do we wear?!”
As a family photographer based in Woodstock, Ontario, I understand the importance of selecting the perfect outfits for your spring and summer family photos and I’ve got you covered. Here’s your go-to guide for planning outfits that look great, feel comfortable, and complement your final images—whether it’s 3°C in the morning or 30°C by afternoon!
1. Dress for the Season (and the Weather mood Swings)
Spring and summer in Southern Ontario are wild cards. One minute you’re reaching for a sweater, the next you’re sweating through your T-shirt (and that's why you'll find me frantically looking for a place to put my sweater while walking between locations).
Layering is key.
Light cardigans, jean jackets, button-downs, and linen shawls are perfect for spring mornings or sunset sessions. They photograph beautifully and are easy to remove once the sun warms up. For little ones, think short-sleeve dresses with tights or rompers with a light sweater, so they’re cozy enough to start and cool enough to finish. Because no one wants to fight with a toddler who's too hot and trying to strip mid-session (although we can all have a good laugh about it after if it does happen).
2. Choose Colours That Work with Nature—and your photographer's Editing Style
Right now, greens are really green. If you’re planning to wear green near trees or in a field, opt for richer tones like forest, olive, or sage instead of neon or bright yellow-greens. You’ll stand out beautifully instead of blending into the background (or looking like a sign on the Vegas strip at 3 am).
You also want to look through some of your photographer's work to see what colours they tend to edit in and what other families are wearing. My editing style is warm, bold, and vibrant, so I recommend:
- Earthy tones (camel, mustard, rust)
- Soft neutrals (cream, oatmeal, warm grey)
- Dusty pastels (mauve, slate blue, blush)
- Rich contrast colours (burgundy, navy, deep teal)
My heart absolutely swoons when my clients show up for their family photoshoot in palettes we've talked about because I know they'll look amazing and I'll have an easy time editing, meaning they get their photos back FASTER! It's a win-win!
I suggest avoiding stark white, bright neons, or big logos—they can throw off the visual balance and feel out of place in the final images. I completely understand the fight isn't worth it sometimes with younger kids though, so if Batman and Spiderman show up, we take it in stride and you'll have great memories of this stage in their lives!
3. Add Texture for Visual Interest
If you want your photos to feel warm, rich, and full of life, texture is your best friend. The entire mood of a photo can shift based on whether someone’s wearing soft cashmere, flowing linen, chunky knits, or stiff denim. You know how kids just seem magnetically attracted to soft things? If you're looking for a snuggle in your spring or summer session, a soft fabric is going to have a much better chance than something "scratchy" or hard.
Mixing fabrics like cotton, denim, knits, linen, and lace adds visual dimension and also makes your images feel less flat and more dynamic. Especially in close-up or emotional storytelling moments, the feeling of the fabric can elevate the image in subtle but powerful ways. I had a session with my own family where I wore this chunky knitted poncho-type thing and my son loved trying to put his hands through the holes and kept playing with the tassels - the close up of those tiny fingers in the soft fabric is one of my favourite photos to look back on as he grows.
4. Coordinate Without Matching
Gone are the days of everyone in jeans and white T-shirts (and honestly? It's for the best. You can be timeless AND have your own style injected into what you wear). Aim for outfits that coordinate in tone, texture, or colour family—without being identical.
I like to start by choosing one person's outfit (often Mom or the person who booked the session because they're stressing the most about how they look), then we build around that using complementary colours and soft patterns. This can be pulling colours from that outfit or seeing what looks good along with it if everyone wants to be different,
Pro tip: Patterns work best when they’re small and subtle. Think florals, stripes, or gingham rather than loud graphics.
5. Comfort First, Always
When you feel good in what you’re wearing, it shows in your photos. Choose clothes that fit well, allow movement, and make you feel like you—especially if you’re planning a session that includes chasing toddlers, carrying littles, or cuddling on a picnic blanket. No one wants to deal with that awkward moment where you're worried about bending over or sitting down and potentially flashing everyone (and we can't edit memories, sorry!)
Shoes matter too—avoid anything that pinches or you wouldn’t wear for a 10-minute walk. If you don't have something you like with the outfit you've chosen, please don't buy something the day of and cross your fingers! We all know how it'll turn out. Barefoot is totally welcome, too, especially for beach or creek sessions!
6. Bonus Tip: Ask Your Photographer for Help!
If you’re ever unsure, reach out! I help my clients plan outfits that work with the season, the location, and their unique family dynamic. I also provide a style guide with visual examples and colour palettes so you feel fully prepared—whether you’re booking a mini session or a full-length experience. I know the stress (anyone who's seen the 3+ different outfit options I've made for my own family can attest) and I don't want you adding to your already full plate. This should be fun and exciting!
Need some inspiration?
Check out my Instagram to see recent spring and summer sessions, or browse the style guide I send after booking to help you feel completely confident choosing your outfits.
Want to make this your most effortless session yet?
Let’s plan something beautiful, together.
