One of the most common questions I receive before a family session or mini session is:
“What should I wear?”
The good news is that it doesn’t need to be complicated. When choosing a dress for spring photos, I always recommend silhouettes that feel comfortable, feminine, and effortless. Dresses with movement, soft texture, and gentle structure photograph beautifully and help create the relaxed, natural feeling most families are hoping for.
Below are five dress styles I love for Orange County spring mini sessions — especially in flower fields and garden settings.
CLASSIC & EFFORTLESS
The flowy maxi dress
A flowy maxi dress is one of the most reliable choices for family photos. The longer length creates beautiful movement as you walk or interact with your children, and the soft lines photograph gracefully in outdoor settings.
Maxi dresses also feel comfortable and easy to wear, which helps you relax during your session — and relaxed always photographs best.
Shown here:
Free People
Plenty of Love Maxi Dress
(Comes in multiple colors / sizes XS-XL)
COMFORTABLE & FORGIVING
The smocked dress
Smocked dresses are a favorite among moms for good reason. The stretchy bodice creates shape while still feeling relaxed and breathable, making it especially comfortable for chasing little ones or holding a baby.
Natural fabrics like cotton and linen add subtle texture that looks beautiful in photos without feeling overly styled.
Shown here:
Quince
100% European Linen Smocked Midi Dress
(Under $100 / Comes in multiple colors / sizes XS-XL)
FLATTERING & FEMININE
The wrap dress
Wrap dresses are one of the most universally flattering silhouettes. The adjustable waist creates gentle shape, and the soft drape moves beautifully while walking or sitting.
They’re a wonderful choice for mothers who want something that feels polished but still easy and natural.
Shown here:
Baltic Born
Breanne Faux Wrap Maxi Dress
(Under $100 / Comes in multiple colors / sizes XS-3XL)
ROMANTIC & STRUCTURED
The puff sleeve dress
Puff sleeve dresses add a soft romantic feel to photos while still maintaining structure. The sleeves help balance proportions and frame the upper body beautifully in portraits.
These dresses work especially well in garden settings or under flowering trees, where the overall look feels timeless and feminine.
Shown here:
Noralee
Women's Chloe Dress Mist English Rose
(sizes XS-XL)
SOFT & FLOWING
The tiered dress
Tiered dresses create natural movement and texture. The layered skirt adds dimension in photos and moves beautifully when walking through grass or wildflowers.
They’re also incredibly comfortable and relaxed, which makes them perfect for sessions with young children.
Shown here:
Anthropologie
The Somerset Maxi Dress
(Comes in White / Standard, Petite and Plus sizes)
A Few Simple Styling Tips
When choosing a dress for your session, look for:
• soft movement (flowy fabrics photograph beautifully)
• natural textures like linen, cotton, or eyelet
• lighter colors that complement spring landscapes
• comfortable silhouettes you can easily move in
The goal is to choose something that feels like yourself — just slightly elevated.
THE BLOOM
Wildflower field framed by trees for dreamy, natural photos
Parking: Free Lot
Accessibility: Easy
Dogs Allowed: Yes, on leash
SAT APR 4 | SUN APR 12
THE CREEK
Lush creek with stepping stones for whimsical, off-the-path captures
Parking: $5/vehicle
Accessibility: Easy (2 min walk)
Dogs Allowed: Yes, on leash (space is tight)
SAT APR 26
THE GARDEN
Oasis with layered trees, plants and blooms for a secret garden feel
Parking: Free Lot (limited) or Street Parking
Accessibility: Moderate
Dogs Allowed: Yes, on leash
SAT MAR 28 | SAT APR 11 | SUN MAY 3
Spring is one of my favorite seasons to photograph families. The light is soft, the colors feel fresh, and the landscapes are full of life. This year I’m offering OC Spring Mini Sessions at three beautiful locations: