What to Wear for Fall Family Photos: A Guide for Picture-Perfect Moments
As the crisp autumn air arrives and leaves begin their colorful transformation, it's the perfect time to gather your family for a seasonal photo session. Fall offers a stunning natural backdrop, with its rich hues and warm light, but selecting the right outfits can elevate your photos from good to truly memorable. Choosing clothing that complements the season's beauty while reflecting your family’s style can make all the difference in creating images you’ll cherish for years. Here’s how to make sure your family is dressed to impress in your fall photos.
1. Embrace the Fall Color Palette
Fall is all about rich, warm tones. Think deep reds, burnt oranges, mustard yellows, olive greens, and earthy browns. These colors not only complement the autumn landscape but also bring out the warmth in everyone’s skin tones. You don’t have to match exactly, but coordinating within a complementary color palette can create a harmonious look.
Tip: Avoid overly bright or neon colors, as they can be distracting and clash with the natural surroundings.
2. Layer Up
Fall weather can be unpredictable, so layering is key. Layers add depth and texture to your photos and give you options to adjust your look as needed. Start with a base layer, like a long-sleeve shirt or a simple dress, and add cardigans, vests, or jackets. Scarves, hats, and knit accessories not only keep you warm but also add a stylish touch.
Tip: For a cohesive look, make sure the layers work well together, both in color and style. You want the layers to complement, not compete with each other.
3. Mix Textures and Patterns
Combining different textures—like knits, denim, wool, and corduroy—adds visual interest to your photos. Patterns, when used thoughtfully, can also enhance the overall look. Plaid shirts, floral prints, or subtle stripes can work well, especially when mixed with solid colors.
Tip: If one family member is wearing a bold pattern, have the others wear more neutral or solid colors to balance the look.
4. Consider the Location
Your location can greatly influence your outfit choices. If you’re shooting in a wooded area with lots of greenery, don’t wear green - wear burgundy, burnt orange, or mustard yellow.
Tip: Think about how your outfits will look in the surroundings and choose colors and styles that will make you stand out rather than disappear.
5. Comfort is Key
While it’s important to look good, comfort should not be sacrificed. Ensure that everyone, especially children, is comfortable in their outfits. Uncomfortable clothing can lead to fidgeting and unhappy expressions, which will be evident in your photos. Choose outfits that allow for movement and that everyone feels good wearing.
Tip: Plan ahead and try on outfits a few days before the shoot to make sure everything fits well and is comfortable.
6. Don’t Forget the Footwear
Footwear can often be an afterthought, but it’s an essential part of the overall look. Boots are a great choice for fall, adding both style and practicality. Choose footwear that complements your outfits and is appropriate for the location—whether you’re walking through a forest, a field, or an urban area.
Tip: Make sure shoes are clean and in good condition, as they may be visible in full-body shots.
7. Add Personal Touches
I LOVE when clients incorporate accessories or items that are meaningful to their family. This could be a blanket that has sentimental value, a favorite toy for the kids, or a piece of jewelry that holds special significance. These personal touches can make the photos feel more authentic and unique to your family.
Tip: Keep accessories simple and avoid anything too flashy that could distract from the overall look.
8. Coordinate, Don’t Match
Aim for coordination where everyone’s outfits complement each other without being identical. This approach allows each family member’s personality to shine while still creating a cohesive group look.
Tip: Choose a color scheme and let each family member pick an outfit that fits within that palette, ensuring a harmonious yet personalized look.
9. Prepare for the Unexpected
Fall weather can be unpredictable, so be prepared for anything. Bring along an extra layer, like a shawl or light jacket, just in case it gets chilly. If there’s a chance of rain, have a stylish umbrella on hand—rain can create some magical photo opportunities if you’re prepared!
Tip: Keep an eye on the weather forecast leading up to your photo session and be flexible with your outfit choices if necessary.
10. Plan Ahead
Planning your outfits in advance can save you a lot of stress on the day of the photo session. Lay out everyone’s outfits a few days before, ensuring everything is clean, pressed, and ready to go. This way, you can avoid any last-minute panic and focus on enjoying the experience.
Tip: Consider doing a quick family photo “dress rehearsal” a few days before the shoot. This will give you a chance to make any necessary adjustments and ensure everyone feels confident in their outfits.
Final Thoughts
Fall family photos are a wonderful way to capture the beauty of the season and the love within your family. By choosing the right outfits with these tips, you’ll create timeless images that you will treasure for years to come. Above all wardrobe advice - the most important thing is to have fun and let your family’s personality shine through—those are the moments that make for the most beautiful photos!
Happy fall, and happy photo shooting!
