What to wear for Fall family photos: A Guide For Busy Moms
Fall is one of the most beautiful times of the year to capture your family’s love and connection. The vibrant leaves, crisp air, and cozy vibes create the perfect backdrop for timeless family portraits. I know that as a busy mom, finding the right outfits for your family photos can feel like just one more thing on your to-do list. But don’t worry—I’ve got you covered with tips that will make the process easy and fun, leaving you with beautiful photos that showcase your family’s style and love.
And if you’re a mom in the Tampa area who’s booked a session with me, I offer a curated selection of dresses to make things even easier. I love helping my clients style their sessions, so you’ll always have my full support in making sure you and your family look and feel your best!
Here are some ideas to help you choose the perfect outfits for your Fall family photos!
1. Start with a Color Palette That Reflects the Season
Fall is all about warm, rich tones that complement the natural beauty of the season. Think deep earth tones like burnt orange, mustard yellow, forest green, burgundy, and soft browns. These colors photograph beautifully against fall’s golden light and vibrant leaves, creating a timeless and natural look.
For a cohesive feel, choose 2-3 main colors and then mix in some neutrals—creams, grays, and soft tans are perfect for adding balance. Try to avoid bright whites or anything too bold or neon, as they can take away from the warmth and harmony of your photos.
Fall Family Style Board 1:
2. Coordinate, Don’t Match
Gone are the days of everyone wearing the same color from head to toe. Instead, aim for coordinating outfits that feel balanced but not too “matchy-matchy.” Think of your family as a beautiful ensemble—each person brings their own personality, but together, you create a unified look.
For example, if one person is wearing a plaid shirt with fall tones, have another wear a solid color that pulls from that palette. Layer textures like cozy knits, corduroy, or denim to add visual interest without overwhelming the eye.
3. Comfort Is Key
When you’re wrangling little ones or simply soaking in the joy of family time, comfort matters. Choose clothes that allow you to move, snuggle, and have fun together. Fall weather can be unpredictable, so consider layering. Lightweight cardigans, scarves, or jackets can not only keep you warm but also add depth and texture to your look.
Remember, when you’re comfortable, it shows in the photos! Your family’s natural warmth and love will shine through when everyone feels at ease.
Fall Family Style Board 1:
4. Don’t Forget Footwear
Footwear is often an afterthought, but it can pull the whole look together. Boots are a great choice for fall—whether ankle boots, riding boots, or even cute little boots for the kids. Stick to neutral tones like brown, tan, or black that won’t draw too much attention away from your outfits.
If your session takes place outdoors, be sure to choose shoes that are practical for walking on grass, dirt paths, or crunchy leaves. It’s all about striking the right balance between style and practicality!
5. Accessorize Thoughtfully
Fall is the perfect time to embrace fun accessories like scarves, hats, and simple jewelry. A cozy scarf or a wide-brimmed hat can add just the right touch of style without being distracting. For the kids, consider simple hairpieces or bows that match the overall color scheme without overpowering their adorable smiles.
Accessories can also help with layering and add dimension to your photos, but remember—less is more! Keep the focus on your family and the connections you share.
6. Plan Ahead for the Kids
I know how important it is to make sure the little ones are comfortable and happy during the session. When planning their outfits, keep it simple. Soft, breathable fabrics work best, and layers will help keep them cozy without overheating. Avoid anything that feels too tight or restrictive—you want them to be able to move, laugh, and enjoy the moment.
And trust me, the happier the kids are, the smoother the session will go!
Fall Accessories Guide:
7. Let Your Personality Shine
Above all, make sure your outfits reflect your family’s unique personality. This is your chance to capture not only how you look but how you *feel* together during this special season. If there’s a favorite piece of clothing that your child loves or something that makes you feel amazing when you wear it, incorporate it into your look. These little details make your photos more personal and meaningful.
And for those of you who want a little extra help or inspiration, I offer a curated collection of dresses for women in the Tampa area who have booked a session with me. I love assisting with styling, so you can enjoy a stress-free experience knowing that your look is taken care of. Together, we’ll make sure your personality and style shine through every detail!
Final Thoughts
Fall family photos should be a reflection of the warmth, love, and connection you share with one another. By following these tips, you’ll not only feel confident and stylish in your outfits but also allow your true emotions to shine through in the images. And remember, when you look back at these photos, you won’t just see what you wore—you’ll feel the love and joy of that moment.
Ready to book your fall family session? Let’s capture those beautiful, fleeting moments together!
