What to Wear for Spring Portrait Session | Northern Virginia Photographer | Woodbridge Family Photographer

Spring has arrived in The Northern Virginia area.  If you've taken a ride or walk around your neighborhood, you will notice a lot of white and red blooms on trees (and tulips in my neighborhood).  Just yesterday, The National Park Service in Washington D.C. released the Peak Bloom dates for the Cherry Blossoms.  Do you know what that means?  It's time for warmer weather and we get to begin adding lots of fun and vibrant colors to our wardrobes again. 

As a family photographer I'm often asked for clothing recommendations, so I've decided to blog and suggest a few recommendations for upcoming spring portrait sessions in the Northern Virginia area.  I'm always happy to assist and provide guidance on clothing recommendations.  We can schedule a consultation to discuss your wardrobe ideas or you are welcome to call my studio. 

Here are a few things to consider when choosing your family's outfits.

Home Décor

As a print artist, this is an often overlooked factor when making wardrobe selection.  Remember, these pictures are going to showcase your beautiful family on the walls of your home.  Be sure that your choice of clothing compliments the areas in which you will be displaying your new works of art.

Start With You

As moms, we all know that if we don’t love the way we like in a picture, there is no way we are going to want to see it every day. You are your worst critic, and as a mom you are always putting everyone else first. This is not a time to neglect yourself! This is your chance to put yourself first and make sure that you love the way you look in your family pictures. So go out and treat yourself to a new outfit that you feel fabulous in. Be sure that your outfit choice suits the type of look you want to create for the session. While you certainly rock that little black dress, it might not be suitable for a tickle fight in the grass or a spring family picture near the Cherry Blossoms. On the other hand, if you are hoping for a very high end formal shoot that might be just the right thing.

Choose a Color Palette

Now that you’ve found the perfect ensemble choose a color pallet based off of it and begin finding the right outfits for your family.  Accessories and patterns are a great way to incorporate colors without being too matchy-matchy (none of this everyone wears black shirts and khaki’s here!).  Having varying colors will create a more interesting photo, while having colors within the same tonal range will create a cohesive look.

Think of Your Family's Personality

Think of  your personality collectively as a family. What one word would you use to describe “you”. Playful? Sophisticate? Fun-loving? Snuggly? Intellectual? We want that personality trait to shine through in your family portraits, and one great way to do that is through your outfit choices.

Consider Specific Poses You Want

Is there a specific pose you are really wanting to get? Be sure your clothing choices for each person are appropriate to make that happen. This generally isn’t a problem but if you really know that you want a mother-daughter shot during your session, make sure that your outfits will compliment each other.
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If you would like to schedule your family's spring portraits, don't hesitate to contact me via telephone at (571) 250-5073 or email at [email protected].

Tamieka is a Northern Virginia Photographer in Woodbridge specializing in family, maternity, and military photography.