Spring Family Photo Style Guide: What to Wear for Stunning Spring Family Photos in Austin
Spring is one of the most beautiful times of year for family photos, and if you’re planning spring family photos in Austin, you’re in for a treat! The wildflowers are blooming, the weather is gorgeous, and the golden hour light is absolutely dreamy. But let’s be real—figuring out what to wear for family photos can feel overwhelming. I’ve got you covered with this easy, stress-free guide to picking outfits that will not only look amazing in photos but also feel comfortable and natural for your family.
Choosing the Perfect Color Palette for Your Austin Spring Family Photos
Your outfits set the tone for your session, so selecting the right color palette is key for your spring family photos in Austin. Spring is all about soft, fresh, and vibrant hues that complement the natural beauty of Austin’s outdoor locations. One key difference between spring and fall photography is the landscape—spring brings lush, bold greens, which means softer tones in your outfits will help you stand out against the vibrant backdrop. Unlike the warm, muted tans of fall, spring requires a fresh, airy color palette to create a balanced and visually appealing look.
Here are my favorite spring color combinations and the best locations to match them:
1. Cream and Tan – Perfect for Brushy Creek
If you love neutral, timeless looks, cream and tan are your go-to. These shades create a light, airy, and effortlessly elegant feel in photos. The natural limestone paths, open fields, and scenic water views at Brushy Creek make for the perfect backdrop to complement these neutral tones. Plus, this location is stunning at sunrise or sunset, giving your spring family photos in Austin a soft, golden glow.
2. Gold, Deep Teal, and Rust – Stunning at Bull Creek
This rich, earthy palette is a perfect contrast to the vibrant greens and cascading water at Bull Creek. Gold adds warmth, deep teal brings depth, and rust ties it all together with a touch of boho charm. These colors look incredible in nature, and Bull Creek’s mix of rocky terrain, waterfalls, and lush greenery makes for a dynamic and visually stunning setting.
3. Rose and Sage Green – Dreamy at Commons Ford Ranch
For a soft, romantic vibe, rose and sage green are an unbeatable combination. These hues reflect the fresh bloom of spring and look especially beautiful against the golden fields and rustic charm of Commons Ford Ranch. If you love a mix of open space, tall grasses, and vintage wooden textures, this location is a winner.
4. Blue and Khaki – Classic at Woodlands Park
For a fresh, clean look, blue and khaki are classic choices for spring family photos in Austin that never go out of style. The soft blue tones play beautifully against the lush trees and natural scenery at Woodlands Park, making your family photos feel bright and timeless. Whether it’s navy, sky blue, or denim, pairing it with khaki keeps everything polished and natural.
5. Denim and Blush Pink – Playful at Circle C Ranch
A mix of denim and blush pink is perfect for spring family photos in Austin if you’re aiming for a playful, relaxed, yet stylish look. The natural trails and shaded areas of Circle C Ranch provide the perfect balance of rustic and refined, giving your photos a soft, dreamy aesthetic while still keeping things fun and casual.
All the Details on Small Sessions – Spring family photos in Austin: Perfectly Timed & Tailored for You
Small Sessions are the perfect middle ground—think of them as the Goldilocks of photo shoots. Not too long, not too short—just the right amount of time to get gorgeous images without the stress of a full session or the rush of a mini session.
Available from January to June only, these 30-minute sessions are ideal for maternity, seniors, family, and newborn photos. Note: Small Sessions are not available for branding, headshots, on-the-lake sessions, or extended family photos. Newborn sessions are limited to small session locations and may NOT be done at your home. Small session newborns are outdoor.
You’ll get 20 beautifully edited digital images, all ready for you to download and cherish (plus more available to purchase if you wish). Quick, fun, and easy—these sessions are designed to capture your moments without taking up too much time. Whether you’re expecting a little one, celebrating a milestone, or just want to document your family’s journey, Small Sessions have you covered.
Tips for Styling Your Spring Family Photo Outfits
Once you’ve chosen your color palette and location, here are some key do’s and don’ts to keep your photos looking effortlessly put together:
Do: Choose Clothes That Fit Well
Comfort is key! Opt for outfits that fit well rather than something oversized that might look baggy in photos. For dresses, flowy maxi dresses photograph beautifully and add a sense of movement to your images.
Do: Layer and Add Texture
Layers and textures make a huge difference in adding dimension to your photos. Think lace, crochet, soft knits, or even a lightweight scarf. For men and kids, layering a button-up over a basic tee or pairing different fabrics (like denim and linen) helps create a more polished yet relaxed look.
Do: Wear Comfortable Shoes
We’ll likely be walking through parks or natural areas, so choosing comfortable yet stylish footwear is a must. Neutral sandals, boots, or slip-on flats work well without distracting from your outfit.
Do: Think About Movement
A dress that flows in the breeze, a toddler twirling in a skirt, or a mom lifting her little one in the air—movement brings life to your images. Flowy fabrics help create that natural, effortless vibe that makes your photos look more like real-life moments rather than stiff poses.
Don’t: Wear Bright Neon Colors
Bright neon colors (hot pink, bright orange, or lime green) can create harsh reflections on the skin and don’t photograph well in natural light. Stick to muted or earthy tones that enhance your natural surroundings.
Don’t: Go Too Matchy-Matchy
Gone are the days of everyone wearing the same exact color shirt! Instead, coordinate colors by sticking to a palette of 2-3 complementary hues with neutrals mixed in for balance.
Don’t: Forget the Details
Little details like rolling up sleeves, tucking in a shirt, or adding simple accessories can elevate your look. Think statement earrings, dainty necklaces, or a wide-brimmed hat for extra style points!
Book Your Spring Family Photos in Austin
Spring is one of the most popular times for family photos in Austin, so if you’re thinking about booking a session, now’s the time! Whether you love the wildflowers at Brushy Creek, the rustic beauty of Commons Ford Ranch, or the dreamy water views at Bull Creek, there’s a perfect spot for your family’s unique style.
Ready to book? Check out my available spring family photo sessions and reserve your spot today! Click here to book your session.