Spring Photo Guide

The birds are chirping, a cool breeze is rushing through the tall grass, and we're stocking up on allergy medication. Springtime is here! With a change of season comes opportunity to photograph memories in a new light. With so many beautiful elements of this season, we've put together some smart photo tips and ideas to snap your best spring season yet.

Use Colors

This season is full of some of the most bright and vibrant colors. From pastels to neons, try to dress for the setting. The color leaders at Pantone feature the trendiest color palette for the season each year. Here are some of their top picks to use in your wardrobe or photo setting.

Rose Quartz and Serenity also happen to be the colors of the year! All of these selected soft shades pair well with each other so feel free to mix and match.

The Annual Easter Bunny Photo

To ensure that your baby or toddler doesn't have a meltdown when visiting the local Easter Bunny, try these quick tips:

• Avoid planning photo time too close to naptime. You definitely want to avoid a cranky baby situation.
• Feeding your little one before the photo will prevent tantrums. You could even score a cute sleeping photo if they decide to nap early after eating.
• Plan for a time when the line would be shortest. A bored child leads to restlessness.
• Visit the Easter Bunny from afar at least twice to build familiarity with the character. Being dropped into a furry strangers lap will bring the tears.

The Perfect Props and Themes

If you're planning a stylized photo shoot of your newborn, children, or family, using springtime props can make for a unique photo opportunity. You can also focus on a certain springtime theme to get the perfect shot. Here's some of our favorite themes and props to feature in your photos:

Props

• Flowers
• Kites
• Easter eggs
• Butterflies
• Bubbles
• Puddles
• Rainbows

Themes

• Camping
• Gardening
• Spring Sports
• Sunny Day
• Farmer's Market
• Spring Break fun

Digital SLR Tips

When using a DSLR camera for your springtime photo, a basic knowledge of settings means everything for the quality of your photos. If it's sunny outside, set your f-stop to f/16. This is called the "Sunny 16 Rule".

For a day that is partly overcast with sun, shoot with an f-stop set to f/11 .

Shooting an Awesome Family Photo

Keeping your photo simple is key to a great shot. Don't over do the props, backgrounds, or the patterns on your clothing choices. They will clash with the main focus of the piece: you and your family. If you have a busy background, make sure to wear solid colors. Some patterns are ok as long as they don't steal the eyes of the viewer.

Make it fun! We know children don't do well sitting in the same position for more than three minutes. Use this opportunity to start a tickle fight or encourage silly behavior. You'll capture organic laughs and smiles which make the final product less staged.

Send a Seasonal Greeting

With the photos captured, put them to good use! Sending family and friends a springtime photo card will further brighten their sunny day. A lot can happen in the first four months of the year. Include fun family updates and exciting plans for the months ahead. Our bright and festive greeting cards by designer Amy Tangerine are perfect to celebrate this refreshing time of year.