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Spring Family Photo Session Outfits: Inspiration for Philadelphia & Chester County Families

  • Mar 14, 2024
  • 3 min read

Updated: 2 days ago

Hands down, the most common question I get before a session is: “What should I wear?” And honestly, it’s a big deal. Your outfit doesn’t just affect how your photos look—it affects how you feel during your session. Feeling uncomfortable, underdressed, or like your outfit doesn’t reflect you can sneak into the photos. Trust me, I’ve been there, I have a last-minute outfit panic nearly every time I leave the house.


Do yourself a favor: start thinking about your clothing at least two weeks before your session. That way, you can choose outfits that make you feel confident, comfortable, and ready to enjoy your family time rather than running late and stressed.



Keep It Real: Clothes Should Feel Like You

Your outfits don’t need to be new or fancy. In fact, you should avoid anything that doesn’t feel like you. This is not the time for heels if you hate them—stick to wedges for practicality in outdoor sessions. Forget what you think you “should” wear and choose what you love. It can be as simple as a t-shirt and jeans, or a little dressier with a button-down or flowy dress. There’s no right or wrong—just be true to yourself.


With that in mind, here’s some spring family photo session outfit inspiration based on my favorite looks from past sessions in Philadelphia, Chester County, and the surrounding areas.


Two young girls in floral dresses sit on a porch. The older girl kisses the younger's head as she reaches for purple flowers during a family photo session atWhite Lake in Hardwick NJ


1. Light & Airy Neutrals

Soft neutrals are a fresh and timeless choice for spring photos. Think off-whites, creams, beige, and light grays—these colors blend beautifully with seasonal blooms and fields, and flatter all skin tones. Perfect for family or maternity sessions in Chester County or Philadelphia parks.


Outfit Inspiration: flowy dresses, linen shirts, neutral sweaters, and light denim






Springtime family session with young couple and baby in front of a historic stone house in Valley Forge National Historical Park / Chester County Lifestyle Photographer


2. Easter Inspired Pastels

Spring is the season to embrace soft pastels! Light pinks, lavender, mint, and buttery yellows look amazing with blooming flowers and bright green leaves. Pair pastels with neutrals to keep things balanced and natural.


Outfit Inspiration: pastel dresses, button-downs in soft hues, and coordinating accessories.






A woman in a blue dress sits on a blanket holding a baby. They're in lush green Valley Forge National Historical park with a stone building and a large sycamore tree in the background.


3. Fresh Blues

Blue is a favorite for spring—it pops against greenery and complements most skin tones. Use a mix of shades and textures so your outfits feel coordinated but not matchy-matchy. Add in hints of gray, purple, or green for extra dimension.


Outfit Inspiration: chambray shirts, soft blue dresses, light sweaters, denim accents.






A family sits outdoors by green barn doors during a family photo session in Valley Forge, PA. A child in red hugs his dad in pink, while his mom in white and pink smiles beside them. Warm and joyful atmosphere.


4. Light, Muted Earth Tones

Earth tones are versatile and timeless, perfect year-round. For spring, lighten things up with sage green, blush pink, and soft browns. These shades feel fresh, airy, and naturally blend with outdoor locations in Philadelphia and Chester County.


Outfit Inspiration: flowy skirts, soft sweaters, linen pants, or layered neutrals with subtle pops of color.






Additional Thoughts On Choosing Your Spring Family Photo Session Outfit


  • Layers Add Interest - Light layers—sweaters, scarves, or jackets—add depth and texture. They can also make it easier to adjust outfits for the ever changing spring temperatures.


  • Keep Patterns Simple - Small, subtle patterns work well. Avoid logos or busy prints that can distract from your family’s connection.


  • Comfort Equals Confidence - Choose outfits you feel good in. If you’re tugging at a shirt, adjusting pants, or uncomfortable in shoes, it will show in your photos. This is especially important for your kids!


  • Flowing Fabrics for Movement - Fabrics that flow in the breeze create dynamic, playful photos.


  • Include Everyone in Planning - Let your children be involved in the process. Give them a few choices when deciding on outfits.They’re more likely to feel comfortable if they actually like what they’re wearing.


  • Coordinate, But Don’t Overthink - The goal is for the family to feel like themselves. Coordination should support your connection, not overshadow it.




Tips for Booking Your Spring Family Photo Session

Timing is Key: Spring blooms are fleeting! Peak flowering usually lasts about two weeks. Most flowers and trees bloom from early to mid-April, but summer blooms follow in May and June. For cherry blossoms or early daffodils, plan early and stay flexible.


Choosing a Location: Think about the type of background you love—gardens, fields, historic sites, or creeks. And if you need somewhere to start, check out my favorite spring photo session locations here.





Ready to Book Your Spring Family or Maternity Sessions?


Reach out today to reserve your spot and make this season’s blooms part of your family’s story.




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