Seasonal Styling Guide

Every Season Tells a Different Story

Iowa's four distinct seasons each bring unique opportunities for beautiful photos. The key to stunning seasonal portraits? Harmony between your wardrobe and the environment.

Spring pastels complement blooming flowers. Summer brights pop against lush greenery. Fall earth tones blend with changing leaves. Winter jewel tones shine against snow and bare branches.

Understanding seasonal color theory transforms good photos into exceptional ones.

Iowa's Seasonal Sweet Spots

Spring: Late April - May (tulips, fresh green)

Summer: June - August (golden hour magic)

Fall: Late September - October (peak color)

Winter: December - February (snow, coziness)

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Spring Styling

Fresh, Light, Renewal

Spring Color Palette

Blush Pink
Sage Green
Lavender
Butter Yellow
Sky Blue

What Works in Spring

  • Pastels reign supreme. Soft colors complement blooming flowers without competing.
  • Light layers. Cardigans, light jackets — Iowa spring weather is unpredictable!
  • Flowy fabrics. Light cotton, linen, chiffon move beautifully in spring breezes.
  • Florals (used sparingly). Small, subtle floral prints work. Avoid large busy patterns.
  • Fresh white. Crisp white shirts, dresses look clean against spring greenery.

Spring-Specific Tips

  • Layer up. 60°F can feel like 40°F in wind. Bring a cardigan.
  • Watch for mud. Spring = rain. Bring backup shoes or embrace boots.
  • Time it right. Iowa tulips peak late April. Apple blossoms early May.
  • Embrace the green. Don't fight it — soft greens, whites, and pastels blend beautifully.
Spring family photo in pastels

Stock photo

Soft pastels harmonize with spring blooms

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Summer Styling

Bright, Bold, Vibrant

Summer Color Palette

Ocean Blue
Sunflower
Coral Red
Fresh Green
Crisp White

What Works in Summer

  • Bolder colors. Vibrant blues, corals, yellows pop against lush green backgrounds.
  • Breathable fabrics. Cotton, linen, chambray. Iowa summers are humid!
  • Lighter tones. Dark colors absorb heat and can look heavy in bright summer light.
  • Nautical vibes. Navy/white stripes, ocean blues work beautifully.
  • Natural textures. Straw hats, canvas shoes add summer character.

Summer-Specific Tips

  • Golden hour is essential. Midday sun is harsh. Shoot early morning or evening.
  • Bring water. Stay hydrated. Dehydration shows in photos (puffy eyes, tired faces).
  • Sunscreen matters. But let it absorb first — shiny skin photographs poorly.
  • Plan for sweat. Bring touch-up makeup, extra shirt if needed.
  • Embrace barefoot. Beach, grass, outdoor summer sessions? Ditch the shoes!
Summer family photo outdoors

Stock photo

Bright colors shine in summer greenery

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Fall Styling

Warm, Rich, Cozy

Fall Color Palette

Rust/Burnt Orange
Camel
Deep Brown
Olive Green
Deep Burgundy

What Works in Fall

  • Earth tones dominate. Rust, camel, brown, olive — fall's natural palette.
  • Layering shines. Vests, scarves, cardigans add visual interest and warmth.
  • Texture matters. Chunky knits, corduroy, suede photograph beautifully.
  • Rich jewel tones. Deep burgundy, forest green, navy work as accents.
  • Warm neutrals. Cream, beige, tan blend seamlessly with fall foliage.

Fall-Specific Tips

  • Peak color timing. Iowa fall peaks late September through mid-October. Book early!
  • Layer for changing temps. 70°F afternoon can drop to 50°F by sunset.
  • Embrace cozy. Blankets, boots, scarves aren't props — they're practical and photograph beautifully.
  • Wind happens. Bring hair ties, bobby pins. Wind-blown hair can be beautiful or frustrating.
  • Fall light is magic. Lower sun angle = gorgeous golden hour that lasts longer.
Fall family photo in earth tones

Stock photo

Earth tones blend beautifully with fall foliage

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Winter Styling

Deep, Elegant, Dramatic

Winter Color Palette

Navy
Cranberry
Forest Green
Deep Purple
Cream

What Works in Winter

  • Jewel tones pop. Rich colors stand out against snow and neutral winter landscapes.
  • Cozy textures. Cable knit sweaters, wool, fleece look appropriate and photograph beautifully.
  • Strategic layering. Scarves, mittens, hats aren't just warm — they're stylish props.
  • Deep colors work. Navy, burgundy, forest green photograph richly against white snow.
  • Cream over white. Pure white can blend into snow. Cream has more dimension.

Winter-Specific Tips

  • Cold is real. Iowa winters are brutal. Keep sessions shorter or plan indoor options.
  • Rosy cheeks happen. Cold adds natural color. Can be charming or uncomfortable — your call.
  • Fresh snow is magical. But it melts or gets dirty fast. Book sessions quickly after snowfall.
  • Indoor/outdoor combo. Start indoors to warm up, venture out for snow shots, return to warm up.
  • Embrace the season. Hot cocoa, fireplaces, cozy blankets — lean into winter vibes.
  • Lighting challenges. Short days mean limited outdoor time. Plan around available light.
Winter family photo in jewel tones

Stock photo

Jewel tones shine against winter landscapes

Iowa Weather: Always Have a Plan B

Iowa weather is famously unpredictable. Here's how to prepare for anything.

Outdoor Session Weather Prep

  • Check forecast 3 days out. Not just day-of. Weather changes fast here.
  • Have a rain date. We'll reschedule if weather is terrible. No stress.
  • Wind strategy. Hair ties, bobby pins, embracing wind-blown looks.
  • Temperature swings. Bring layers you can add or remove.
  • Mud happens. Especially spring and fall. Bring backup shoes.
  • Sun vs clouds. Both work! Overcast = soft, flattering light.

Indoor Backup Options

  • Studio sessions. Controlled environment, any weather.
  • Your home. Natural window light can be beautiful.
  • Covered locations. Barns, porches, covered bridges.
  • Embrace weather. Light rain with umbrellas? Snow falling gently? Can be magical.
  • Flexibility wins. Best photos come when we adapt, not fight weather.

When to Book Your Seasonal Session

Peak Season Booking Timeline

Fall (Most Popular):

  • Book by late August for September/October sessions
  • Fall is our busiest season — dates fill fast
  • Peak color is short (2-3 weeks) — flexibility helps

Spring (Second Most Popular):

  • Book by early April for late April/May sessions
  • Bloom timing varies by weather — some flexibility needed
  • Less crowded than fall but still popular

Summer & Winter (More Availability):

  • Book 2-4 weeks in advance typically fine
  • Summer = more scheduling flexibility
  • Winter = beautiful but weather-dependent

Questions About Seasonal Styling?

Not sure which season is right for your vision? Wondering about timing? Need help planning around Iowa's unpredictable weather?

We know Iowa's seasons intimately. Let's plan the perfect timing for your session.

(319) 408-8181

Ready to Book Your Seasonal Session?

Beautiful photos in every season — we'll help you plan the perfect timing

Schedule Your Session

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