What to Wear for Fall Photos: A Complete Guide

Autumn is a magical time for family fall pictures! The crisp air, the vibrant leaves, and that cozy feeling make it the perfect season for capturing memories. But one question I often get from families preparing for their fall photoshoot is: “What should we wear?” Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered with some tips to help you look your best and feel confident during your session!

1. Embrace Fall Colors

Fall is all about warm, earthy tones, and your outfits can reflect that seasonal beauty. Think deep reds, burnt oranges, mustard yellows, olive greens, rich browns, and neutrals like cream or beige. These colors complement the natural backdrop and keep your photos looking timeless.

If you’re unsure where to start, try pulling colors from the environment you’ll be shooting in—whether it’s a golden field, forest, or cozy park. Mix and match shades within these tones for a harmonious look.

2. Coordinate, Don’t Match

Coordinating is key! You want to look unified as a group but not too “matchy-matchy.” Avoid dressing everyone in the exact same color or outfit. Instead, choose a color palette and let each family member wear a different shade or pattern within that scheme. For example, if you’re going with earth tones, Dad can wear a maroon sweater, Mom can wear a mustard yellow dress, and the kids can be in olive green and denim.

A well-coordinated look helps create a cohesive yet visually interesting result in your final images.

3. Layers, Layers, Layers!

One of the best things about fall fashion is layers! Adding layers not only adds dimension to your photos but also allows you to stay comfortable if the weather fluctuates. Think scarves, cardigans, vests, jackets, or cozy shawls.

Plus, layers provide movement and texture in fall pictures—imagine your scarf or jacket blowing slightly in the wind, adding a sense of warmth and authenticity to the moment.

4. Patterns and Textures

Don’t be afraid to incorporate patterns and textures into your outfits. Plaid shirts, cable-knit sweaters, corduroy, denim, and flowy dresses all photograph beautifully in autumn settings. Just keep it balanced—if one person is wearing a bold plaid or floral print, let the rest of the group opt for solid colors or subtle patterns.

Textures like knit sweaters, wool, or leather also add depth and coziness to the photos.

5. Comfort is Key

Fall sessions are often outdoors, and you want everyone to be comfortable! This means choosing clothing that allows for movement, especially if you have young kids who will be running around. Make sure shoes are suitable for the terrain, whether it’s walking through leaves, hiking in a forest, or standing in a field.

If you’ll be sitting on the ground or moving a lot, consider clothing that won’t wrinkle easily and layers that can be adjusted for warmth.

6. Accessories to Add Personality

Accessories can be a fun way to showcase your family’s unique style! Hats, boots, suspenders, or a statement necklace can add a pop of personality to your fall pictures. Just be mindful not to go overboard—less is often more when it comes to accessories.

For little ones, items like a cute headband, a cozy hat, or even a toy that’s meaningful can bring out their personality without distracting from the overall look.

7. Avoid Logos and Neon Colors

While it’s tempting to grab that trendy graphic tee or bright neon top, these elements can be distracting in photos. Bold logos and fluorescent colors often steal focus from what really matters—your family’s faces and the beautiful environment around you. Stick to classic, timeless pieces that will look great for years to come.

8. Plan Ahead

This might seem obvious, but planning outfits in advance can save you a lot of stress on photo day! Try on clothes beforehand to ensure everything fits well and feels good. It also gives you time to make any necessary adjustments, like swapping an item that didn’t work as expected or adding an extra layer if it’s colder than anticipated.

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Final Thoughts

Your fall family photos should be a fun and relaxed experience! By embracing seasonal colors, layering up, and choosing outfits that reflect your family’s style, you’ll feel confident and camera-ready. The most important thing is to enjoy the moment and let your family’s unique personality shine through. Here are some examples for you.

Have you scheduled your fall photos yet? I’d love to capture these special moments with you! Let’s chat and plan your perfect fall session.