What to Wear for Fall Family Photos – Outfit Tips From an Expert

So you’ve booked your fall family photos, and now you’re in planning mode to make sure you get the perfect fall foliage pictures for your holiday cards and that gift for the grandparents. Wondering what to wear and how to make sure everyone looks their absolute best?

Welcome to my fall family photo guide! I’ve been working with families each fall season for decades, and I’ve found again and again that there are some things that make this season just a little bit different. Whether it’s how to keep the kids’ outfits from getting messy or the secret to getting everyone to cooperate, I’ve got you covered!

I’ve gathered some of my favorite tips to help you get the most out of a photo session in that time of year when the whole world is decked out in gorgeous golds, oranges and reds!

How to Pick the Best Fall Family Photo Outfits

When it comes to planning with clients, the one question I’m always ready for is “what do I wear for my fall family photos?”

From coordinating the different family members to choosing our own outfit, just the wardrobe can feel like the most daunting task to check off your list. I promise it’s easier than you think!

Here are my can’t fail tips for finding the perfect fall family photo outfits and coordinating different family members’ outfits!

1. Choose colors that complement the foliage.

When it comes to coordinating outfits among family members, I always suggest finding clothing in complementary colors rather than matching exactly – no matter the season.

But dressing for fall photos means you’re not just trying to coordinate your clothing choices with relatives. You also have those bright leaves to take into consideration!

Here are some color palettes that ensure your outfits won’t blend in with the foliage but also won’t clash against the classic colors of the season:

1. Embrace the colors of fall. Opt for solid-colored outfits in muted fall colors such as burgundy, burnt orange, or raspberry that fit right in with the background. Muted colors are preferrable to bright versions of these tones as the latter will reflect on your skin and can alter your appearance!
2. Avoid busy prints. Bold colors and patterns can be a lot of fun to wear, but they draw the viewer’s eye away from the star of the show – you! They’re also more likely to clash with the stunning backdrop that nature has offered up! If you are set on incorporating a pattern, opt for cable knit sweaters which can add some warmth to your wardrobe (especially beneficial if it’s a brisk fall day) or simple floral in muted fall tones.
3. Draw inspiration from the Earth. Whether it’s fall or winter, earthy tones are an excellent choice for family photo outfits. The deep greens that would blend into the forest in summer create a natural contrast in the later seasons of the year, while soft blues and greys seem right at home in nature.
4. Stick to neutrals with warmth. ‘Tis the season of creams, ivories, and other neutrals with a slightly yellow tint. Although technically a “neutral,” it’s best to avoid stark white, which can create a distracting contrast against the warm hues of the fall leaves. All black is also best to avoid as it tends to absorb light and can appear cold and harsh – the opposite aesthetic of that warm and cozy fall family picture!

2. Use layers to account for the unpredictable fall weather.

September and October give us fantastic foliage, but the weather is often anything BUT reliable with 55 degree days followed up by 85 degree days and vice versa. With this in mind, layers are an absolute must, and these easily removed wardrobe items can make a difference between sweating and shivering:

• Undershirts
• Cardigans
• Denim jackets
• Maxi skirts
• Scarves
• Shawls
• Vests

Picking breathable fabrics is also a must!

3. Keep your footwear neutral, and opt for closed shoes.

The same rules that apply to choosing colors for the rest of your family’s picture wardrobe apply to footwear. That means avoiding stark white sneakers if possible, and considering the fact that it might suddenly be 50 degrees.

As a photographer who incorporates a lot of movement in my sessions to help tell richer stories of family connection, I also recommend my clients opt for footwear they can move in easily!

What Not to Wear to Your Fall Photo Session

Let’s face it – knowing what not to wear is almost as important as know what TO wear for your photo session. The rules for what to skip for any season apply to fall too — from avoiding neons to skipping out on those matching outfits.

Check out my list of ideas for what to wear and what not to wear for any season!