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Spring Family Photos: 5 Tips for a Picture-Perfect Session

Tara Flannery is a  Certified Professional Photographer (CPP), Photographic Craftsman, and Master of Photography based in Houston, TX.  Tara Flannery Photography specializes in family portraits.  See more family photos in the gallery.  Contact me to book your family portrait today!

Spring Family Photos

Spring is the perfect time to capture beautiful, joyful moments with your loved ones. With nature in full bloom and soft, golden light, spring family photos create lasting memories filled with warmth and color. To make the most of your session, here are five must-know tips for a picture-perfect photoshoot!

Family photos in the park in The Woodlands, TX.

1. Choosing the Perfect Location

One of the most important aspects of your spring family photos is selecting the right setting. Springtime offers stunning natural backdrops, from lush green parks to colorful wildflower fields. Here are three of my favorite locations for spring sessions:

  • WG Jones State Forest – With multiple entrances to choose from, this location offers a variety of scenic spots depending on the time of year. Towering pine trees and open fields create a peaceful, natural setting for spring family photos.
  • Rob Fleming Park at Creekside – This park boasts gorgeous landscaping, a picturesque pond, and vibrant spring blooms, making it an ideal location for capturing bright airy family photos.
  • Alden Bridge Park – A beautiful, family-friendly setting with charming bridges, walking paths, and plenty of greenery. The mix of open space and shaded areas provides the perfect balance for natural and well-lit portraits.

When choosing a location, consider places that hold special meaning for your family, like a favorite picnic spot or a scenic trail. Also, keep lighting in mind—early mornings and the golden hour just before sunset provide the most flattering, soft glow for your photos.

Family photos with kids walking in the forest.

2. Picking the Right Outfits

Coordinating outfits can make a huge difference in how your photos turn out. Here’s what to keep in mind when dressing your family:

  • Stick with soft, natural colors like pastels, earth tones, or light neutrals to complement the spring scenery.
  • Coordinate without being too “matchy”—mix textures and subtle patterns while keeping a cohesive color palette.
  • Avoid logos, overly busy patterns, or neon colors that can distract from the overall look.

Comfort is key! Make sure everyone feels good in what they’re wearing so they can move naturally and enjoy the session.

Dad and son snuggle during a family photo session! spring family photos

3. Keeping Kids Happy and Engaged

Little ones bring energy and joy to family photos, but keeping them engaged requires a little planning:

  • Make sure kids are well-rested and have had a snack before the session.
  • Bring along a favorite toy or stuffed animal for comfort (and as a fun prop!).
  • Plan for movement—let kids twirl, run, or play for natural, joyful expressions.

By keeping the session lighthearted and playful, your photos will feel genuine and full of life.

Family photos at the farm.

4. Embracing the Springtime Weather

Spring is beautiful but can also be unpredictable. Be prepared for changing weather conditions with these tips:

  • Dress in layers or bring a light cardigan in case of a chilly breeze.
  • If there’s a chance of rain, consider bringing an umbrella or rain boots for a charming, unexpected spring-themed look.
  • Be flexible with location changes if needed—sometimes, a last-minute shift can lead to a magical setting!
Family walking in the park for family portrait session in The Woodlands TX.

5. Relaxing and Enjoying the Moment

The best family photos come from genuine interactions and emotions. Instead of worrying about every little detail, focus on having fun with your loved ones!

  • Trust your photographer—I will guide you with natural posing and moments that feel effortless.
  • Don’t stress about perfection—sometimes, the in-between, candid moments turn out to be the most cherished ones.
  • Laugh, play, and be yourselves. The more relaxed you are, the more your family’s unique personality will shine through.
Family photos with boy holding a white horse.

Capture the Beauty of Spring with Your Family

Spring family photos are a wonderful way to celebrate the season and create lasting memories. By choosing the right location, dressing for the occasion, keeping kids happy, and embracing the weather, you’ll set yourself up for a beautiful, stress-free photoshoot.

Ready to book your spring session? Let’s make it happen! You can book your free consultation HERE!

Additional Family Sessions

Mom and kids smile for a family photo in The Woodlands, TX.

Family photos with older kids posed on the bridge in the forest.

Mom and kids smile for a family photo in The Woodlands, TX.

Family photos in the forest in The Woodlands TX.

Mom and kids smile for a family photo in The Woodlands, TX.

Tara Flannery is a  Certified Professional Photographer (CPP), Photographic Craftsman, and Master of Photography based in Houston, TX.  Tara Flannery Photography specializes in family portraits.  See more family photos in the gallery.  Contact me to book your family portrait today!

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@taraflanneryphotography

When you show up like a pro, doors start opening.

We wrapped this session with a simple truth: “Kyle’s going to go off and do great things.”

And he will—because he’s putting his best foot forward, starting with how he presents himself. A high-quality headshot might seem like a small thing, but it can make a powerful first impression that opens doors to new jobs, clients, or collaborations.

When you look the part, you feel the part—and the world responds accordingly.

📸 Need to refresh your headshot? Send me a message and let`s make it happen!

#headshots

9 0
Open post by taraflanneryphotography with ID 18078568405767160
When you show up like a pro, doors start opening. We wrapped this session with a simple truth: “Kyle’s going to go off and do great things.” And he will—because he’s putting his best foot forward, starting with how he presents himself. A high-quality headshot might seem like a small thing, but it can make a powerful first impression that opens doors to new jobs, clients, or collaborations. When you look the part, you feel the part—and the world responds accordingly. 📸 Need to refresh your headshot? Send me a message and let's make it happen! #headshots

Ever wondered why your headshots look flat instead of flattering? 👀

It all comes down to lighting. In the studio, I use one main light source and strategically placed reflectors to bounce light and fill in shadows. This creates that soft, even glow that makes you look approachable and polished—while still keeping a touch of shadow to add shape and dimension to your face.

Flat lighting can make your features disappear. The right lighting makes you stand out. ✨

Ready to finally love your headshots?

📩 DM me or click the link in bio to book your session today.

#headshots #thewoodlandstxphotographer #headshotphotographer #headshottips

10 0
Open post by taraflanneryphotography with ID 18101432104594547
Ever wondered why your headshots look flat instead of flattering? 👀 It all comes down to lighting. In the studio, I use one main light source and strategically placed reflectors to bounce light and fill in shadows. This creates that soft, even glow that makes you look approachable and polished—while still keeping a touch of shadow to add shape and dimension to your face. Flat lighting can make your features disappear. The right lighting makes you stand out. ✨ Ready to finally love your headshots? 📩 DM me or click the link in bio to book your session today. #headshots #thewoodlandstxphotographer #headshotphotographer #headshottips

Here’s why 👇🏻

Most people wait for the “perfect” moment—when they’ve lost a few pounds, changed their hair, or finally feel more confident. But here’s the truth: there will always be something you’re waiting on.

Your headshot isn’t about some future version of you—it’s about showing up confidently in the season you’re in today. Because this version of you? The one leading your team, meeting clients, building your business—that’s the version people want to connect with.

When your photo feels authentic and current, it builds instant trust. Outdated or staged images can actually do the opposite, making it harder for people to recognize the real you.

So don’t wait for “someday.” The right time to show up as your best self is always now.

📸 Ready for a refresh? Let’s create a headshot that feels true to you.

DM me to book your session.

#headshotupdate #headshotphotographer #thewoodlandsheadshots #professionalheadshots

4 0
Open post by taraflanneryphotography with ID 18098257465620095
Here’s why 👇🏻 Most people wait for the “perfect” moment—when they’ve lost a few pounds, changed their hair, or finally feel more confident. But here’s the truth: there will always be something you’re waiting on. Your headshot isn’t about some future version of you—it’s about showing up confidently in the season you’re in today. Because this version of you? The one leading your team, meeting clients, building your business—that’s the version people want to connect with. When your photo feels authentic and current, it builds instant trust. Outdated or staged images can actually do the opposite, making it harder for people to recognize the real you. So don’t wait for “someday.” The right time to show up as your best self is always now. 📸 Ready for a refresh? Let’s create a headshot that feels true to you. DM me to book your session. #headshotupdate #headshotphotographer #thewoodlandsheadshots #professionalheadshots

🚫 Let’s talk wardrobe no-nos for headshots.

I want you to look polished, confident, and distraction-free in your photos—and sometimes that means skipping certain outfit choices.

For men:

❌ No undershirts peeking through

❌ If you’re wearing a tie, make sure your shirt buttons all the way up

❌ If it doesn’t, we’re ditching the tie

For women:

❌ Skip the sleeveless tops—your arms will compete with your face for attention

✅ A sleeve (even short) helps keep the focus where it belongs—on YOU

The goal? A clean, intentional look that draws people in and keeps their attention right where it should be—your face.

📸 Save this before your session so you can show up ready and confident.

#headshots #headshotphotography #HoustonHeadshots #whattowearforheadshots

16 0
Open post by taraflanneryphotography with ID 18082817308920860
🚫 Let’s talk wardrobe no-nos for headshots. I want you to look polished, confident, and distraction-free in your photos—and sometimes that means skipping certain outfit choices. For men: ❌ No undershirts peeking through ❌ If you’re wearing a tie, make sure your shirt buttons all the way up ❌ If it doesn’t, we’re ditching the tie For women: ❌ Skip the sleeveless tops—your arms will compete with your face for attention ✅ A sleeve (even short) helps keep the focus where it belongs—on YOU The goal? A clean, intentional look that draws people in and keeps their attention right where it should be—your face. 📸 Save this before your session so you can show up ready and confident. #headshots #headshotphotography #HoustonHeadshots #whattowearforheadshots

Let`s talk... ⬇️

If your headshot isn’t working on your website, LinkedIn, or social media...

👉🏻 it’s probably not the image.

👉🏻 it’s the crop.

Yep, even the most beautiful photo can fall flat if it’s not framed for the platform it’s on.

Here are 3 common cropping mistakes I see all the time (and how to fix them):

1️⃣ Too Close – When there’s no breathing room, the image feels cramped and overly intense.

2️⃣ Too Far – If we can’t clearly see your face, we lose the connection instantly.

3️⃣ Wrong Shape for the Platform – That rectangle you uploaded to LinkedIn? It just became a circle... and cut off half your head.

✨ The fix? Intentional cropping before you upload—so your headshot looks polished, professional, and approachable everywhere.

Want a headshot that works across all platforms? Let’s create one that does just that.

📩 DM me to plan your session or visit the link in bio to learn more.

4 0
Open post by taraflanneryphotography with ID 18033514481698346
Let's talk... ⬇️ If your headshot isn’t working on your website, LinkedIn, or social media... 👉🏻 it’s probably not the image. 👉🏻 it’s the crop. Yep, even the most beautiful photo can fall flat if it’s not framed for the platform it’s on. Here are 3 common cropping mistakes I see all the time (and how to fix them): 1️⃣ Too Close – When there’s no breathing room, the image feels cramped and overly intense. 2️⃣ Too Far – If we can’t clearly see your face, we lose the connection instantly. 3️⃣ Wrong Shape for the Platform – That rectangle you uploaded to LinkedIn? It just became a circle... and cut off half your head. ✨ The fix? Intentional cropping before you upload—so your headshot looks polished, professional, and approachable everywhere. Want a headshot that works across all platforms? Let’s create one that does just that. 📩 DM me to plan your session or visit the link in bio to learn more.

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Serving the Greater Houston, Texas Area

tara@taraflannery.com

713-412-5437

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Tara is a member of the Professional Photographers of America PPA.
Tara is a Certified Professional Photographer.
Tara is a member of TPPA Texas Professional Photographer's Association.
Tara has earned her Master of Photography degree.
Tara has earned her Photographic Craftsman certification.
Tara is a member of the Professional Photographers Guild of Houston PPGH.