Top Tips for your Spring Family Photo Session
Considering booking a spring family photo session? Read on for my top tips as a Seattle family photographer to ensuring your session is what spring dreams are made of.
Book your Pacific Northwest Spring Family Photos between April and June.
Now, I know in late Feb and early March the cherry blossoms start popping and everyone is convinced it’s spring. But I encourage you to wait another month or two to schedule your session if you want that beautiful spring vibe. Yes, cherry blossoms are beautiful but they usually start blooming when there are very little leaves on the trees and the setting for your photo session will still read “winter”. It can also be quite cold in Feb/March in the Seattle area. April through June are the best months to get spring flowers, green grass, and leaves on the trees.
Consider sunset times when booking your spring family photo session.
As an outdoor, lifestyle family photographer, SHG Photography session times start about one hour before sun set (here’s why).
In the spring the sun sets later each week. If you have young children and are worried about a late photo session, consider booking your session earlier in spring or later in fall.
However, if your family is used to staying up late, you have older kids, or a busy activity schedule, a later session time may open up more options during the week for your session.
In April, sessions start around 6:45pm and by June they begin at 8pm!
Plan to bring a blanket with colors that don’t take away or distract from your outfits.
One thing is for sure, Spring in Seattle is guaranteed to bring rain. Although we will reschedule if it is raining during your session time (see my weather policy), even if we have a nice clear day, the ground is often damp. Since I provide you with a variety of poses and backgrounds, there will most likely be a time when you will sit as a family for your photos. With nice clothes on, no one wants to sit in damp grass or risk getting dirty.
Plan to bring a neutral colored, light-weight blanket to your session. This can be used to sit on if the ground is wet but also to wrap up your family if they are feeling cold (think cute snuggle pictures). A blanket can also serve as a prop to play games with or swing your kids - guaranteed to bring the smiles!
Wear Layers To Your Spring Family Photo Session
When April hits and sleeveless Easter dresses are at every department store, remember it can still be cold in the Seattle area. If a dress is in the plans for you or one of your children to play up that Spring-y vibe, simply plan to bring along a light-weight denim jean jacket or a spring cardigan.
Chambray shirts and chinos look great on boys for a spring look, but still keep their limbs covered in the cool, damp air. You can roll Dad’s or boys’ dress shirt sleeves to give a more casual look, but have the option to unroll sleeves if complaints of being chilly ensue.
A light vest adds a layered look (and a little warmth) as do leggings or tights under skirts and dresses. Beware of white tights if you have an active child who will feel compelled to run and play when they see an open field. Light colored tights can easily dirty, so opt for something more resilient. Rompers with frilly straps are another great spring option for girls who don’t like to fuss with a dress and/or tights or who are looking to stay warm in the cool spring air.
Don’t Forget To Think About Shoe Choices
While high heels may seem like the perfect pair to a spring dress or outfit, remember outdoor family lifestyle sessions are often held in grassy parks. In the spring, grass can be wet and sometimes even soggy. High heels may sink into the grass and make it difficult to move freely and enjoy your time with your family. Consider ditching those heels for a pair of more supportive wedges or ballet flats.
Sandals with straps, ballet flats, and slip on dockers or “boat shoes” are great for a spring look but still allow kids to move around and play.
With kids growing like weeds, don’t assume their spring shoes from last year will still fit. Be sure to have children try on their shoes a few days to a week in advance and also let them run down the hallway to “test” them out for comfort and to make sure they stay on their feet.
Spring is a beautiful time of year and is sure to produce your favorite family photographs. Make notes of the tips above and head into your spring family session with confidence!
