Spring is hands down my favorite time of year in the DFW area. So, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that it is also my favorite season to photograph families in Dallas. It’s also one of the easiest seasons to plan your wardrobe. There is lots of content out there detailing what to wear for fall photos, but this post is all about what to wear for spring family photos in Dallas and Fort Worth!
Spring in the DFW area is short, but oh so sweet. The wildflowers are prolific, the temperatures are enjoyable, and the breeze offers an extra dash of movement to your images. One of my top tips as a family photographer is to “work with what you got”. Whether that be in regards to light, (toddler) patience, or your environment. When it comes to choosing what to wear for spring family photos in Dallas, you want to lean into the color scheme around you – not fight against it. Spring is full and vibrant, which makes your job easy – just keep it simple.
Below you will find my most common tips for choosing outfits for spring photos.
Choose Soft, Spring Colors
You probably don’t show up to a Christmas party wearing orange and purple, do you? So, why would you show up to a spring photo session wearing colors that stand out like a sore thumb? For spring, you want to choose colors that complement your surroundings. Colors that look like they already belong there.
Suggested colors:
creams
soft blues
lighter greens
light denim
tan
Spring light in Dallas is soft and warm – therefore, lighter colors tend to work better. When choosing what to wear for spring family photos in Dallas, avoid bright and bold colors that look out of place in the outdoor setting.
Coordinate, Don’t Match
This tip should be heeded anytime you are taking photos, not just in the spring. I think the term “match” is often used interchangeably with “coordinate”, but it is most definitely has a different meaning.
coordinate: to bring together different elements that complement each other.
match: multiple things that are identical or close to identical
Let me say it again, coordinating isn’t matching and matching isn’t coordinating.
A simple, yet effective formula is to choose 2-3 colors to mix in throughout everyone’s outfits. Aim to use 1 bold pattern with similar solid colors or 2 small/subtle patterns with similar solid colors throughout.
Flowy Dresses Photograph Beautifully
Even though photos are technically “stills”, as a photographer, I am always going to want movement. Most movement we have to create by running or skipping or spinning – but some movement is “free”. As I mentioned before, spring in Dallas – Fort Worth is breezy, and while sometimes that can be an annoyance (hello hair). However, it’s such a gift when it comes to added movement, which is what happens when there is a long flowy dress in the picture (pun intended).
Choose dresses that have soft fabrics, subtle texture, and gentle movement.
Things to Avoid When Choosing What to Wear for Spring Family Photos in Dallas
The goal is always to make sure the clothes turn the attention towards the people wearing them, not the other way around!
Be Prepared for Weather Changes
As beautiful as spring is in Dallas, it can be equally unpredictable. It never hurts to plan accordingly.
Planning alternate outfit options that can be easily added or removed is best – think cardigans, denim jackets, or light sweaters.
Best Locations for Spring Family Photos in Dallas
White Rock Lake
Murrell Park
Arbor Hills Nature Preserve
Grapevine Botanical Gardens
Flippen Park
Book a Session
Spring sessions will always be my favorite for families – the beautiful weather is a perfect reason to grab your family and create beautiful memories together. If you are thinking about booking spring family photos in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, I would love to plan a session that feels natural, joyful, and true to you.
You can learn more here or inquire here.
