What To Wear For Your Fall Family Photos (2024)

Styling Ideas and Inspiration for your Outdoor Fall Family Portraits

Fall is the most popular time of year for family photos north of Boston. Save for the impending winter (!), there isn’t much to dislike about fall in New England.Not that I am in any rush for summer to end, but my favorite season style-wise has always been fall. And not just because I can get away with comfortable and oversized clothes. There are so many color options and comfy fabrics! Give me a good pair of boots, a cozy scarf, pumpkin beer and / or latte and you’ll see the happiest girl in the world.

So, what do you wear for fall family photos? While Uggs and an oversized sweater may work for everyday fall life, let’s dive in a little deeper, shall we?

What To Wear For Your Fall Family Photos (1)

Fall has so many gorgeous colors! Loving this deep green, gray, and navy color palette for fall.

Choosing the Best Colors for Fall Family Photos

Much like the summer sunsets, you can’t go wrong with any colors you’ll see in the fall foliage: yellows, oranges, deep greens. It all works. Red is a common color when you think about fall, but it doesn’t always photograph well as the main color. It works better as a pop of color. Some other favorite fall time colors are navy, plum, burnt sienna, crimson, tan, mustard yellow to name a few. Some of my favorite color combinations are navy and cream with a splash of any other color, burnt orange, yellow and plum, and olive green, crimson and mustard yellow. A combination of cream and tan is a good substitute for everyone in all white (see family portrait below).

Keep in mind that these family photos will have fall foliage as their backdrop. Play off of those colors, but also use coordinating ones. You might have browns and oranges behind you, so a pop of yellow, plum or emerald green can stand out against the background. And if all else fails, go for a classic neutral color like gray or cream. Gray is super popular right now, which makes sense since it truly goes with everything.

And the importance of color choice doesn’t end at your ankles. It’s easy to overlook shoe choice. But some of your family portraits may end up being full length, so your shoes will show. Neutral colors are always the best choice. Brightly colored sneakers might be fun to wear, but they can stand out like a sore thumb in family portraits.

What To Wear For Your Fall Family Photos (2)

Gray is a perfect choice if you want a neutral color. It looks great on everyone, and goes with everything.

Fabric Choice is Important

So often we focus on what color we want to wear for photos. And choosing a color palette can definitely be the first step. But it doesn’t end there. What do you think of when you hear the words Fall Fashion? Chances are your first thought is to cozy textures. Flannel, chunky knits, denim, corduroy, tweed, and crushed velvet are all great textures for the fall. Plus, these fall fabrics look great on the whole family and photograph beautifully.

Fall is also a great time for layers and textures. Adding a scarf can make an outfit pop. And don’t forget the accessories! I’m a sucker for a statement necklace, or the perfect pair of boots. Layers help because this is New England and while the weather may be chilly the day of your shoot, give it five minutes and you’ll be peeling off clothing faster than you can say “New England weather”.

To Coordinate or Not to Coordinate

What To Wear For Your Fall Family Photos (4)

If you want everyone in one color, creams and tans are always a good idea.

Fall family portraits means dressing not just one person, but the entire family. This can seem a bit daunting. Do we all wear the same colors? Do we wear the same textured fabric? But here’s the general rule of thumb: don’t focus too much on matching, but on coordinating. If everyone is wearing the same color, print, or fabric, the eye can get confused where to look. Instead, go for colors and fabrics that work well together. This creates more visual interest.

I find it helps to pick one outfit that you love and then go from there. It makes everything a lot less stressful. Once you see what one person is wearing, the rest can fall into place. Plus, if this outfit has a busier print or pattern, it gives you something to build from. We call this the “hero outfit” and typically it’s either worn by mom or one of the kids. This outfit might have all the colors that the rest of the family is wearing, or more of a texture and the rest are wearing lighter fabrics.

Some children’s clothing stores like Janie and Jack have collections that coordinate well if you’re looking to coordinate without matching. Another option that I love for any season is Jamie Kay.

Kids Will Sometimes Have Their Own Opinions

While coordinating is the goal, sometimes (and by sometimes I mean usually) toddlers have their own agenda. If your little one will not leave the house without their favorite princess gown or super hero cape on, just go with it. Those proud smiles will be better than the tear stained cheeks we’ll see if they’re forced to wear something they don’t want to. (Plus, let’s be real, such a good story for down the road!).

The photo below is a perfect example. Who wouldn’t want to remember the time all she wanted to wear was her blue princess dress and cute bandaid!?

What To Wear For Your Fall Family Photos (5)

And honestly, her sparkly princess gown totally works in this photo. Talk about hero outfit!

Comfort is Key

Let’s face it, smiling for a camera is typically not anyone’s idea of a fun time. Now imagine smiling for a camera AND being in uncomfortable, stiff, itchy clothing. Not fun. When push comes to shove, the best way to get genuine smiles in your family photos is to be comfortable.

There are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to comfort. The first is fabrics. If your little one hates itchy knits, choose a soft flannel or corduroy instead. Does your little girl hate being in dresses and tights? Find some velvet leggings or cute jeans instead.

It’s important to consider the size of the clothing, too. No one is comfortable in too tight clothing (I know I’m not!), but the same can be said with clothing that’s too big. If you’re spending the whole session tugging and adjusting too big pants or a shirt that doesn’t fall correctly, no one will be happy.

Your little ones aren’t the only ones who need to be comfortable. Keep temperatures in mind when dressing the whole family. If it’s a sunny fall afternoon, Dad might be sweating in his dress shirt or sweater vest, and you don’t want that in your family portraits.

And the last very important thing to keep in mind for comfort: shoes. Since these sessions are outside, it’s important to choose shoes that won’t make walking on grass difficult. And for the littles, make sure to choose shoes that don’t pinch toes or scrape heels.

What To Wear For Your Fall Family Photos (6)

Mom and Dad let their kiddo shine. They stuck with neutrals and let her be the pop of color and pattern.

When in doubt: Go Timeless

These portraits are something special that can last for generations. Which is why choosing timeless pieces is key. While we can never really know what’s going to be in style forever, we have a pretty good idea what isn’t. Big graphics and logos on clothing not only distract from the other members of the family, but they can make a photo seem trendy or dated. Stick with styles that are timeless staples. Sweaters, flannel button down shirts, and jeans will always be in style. When it comes to family portraits, keep it simple, timeless, and work with the beautiful fall foliage for style inspiration.

For classic staples to wear during the photo session, I always recommend Gap, Old Navy, J.Crew, or even H&M.

Examples of Perfect Fall Family Portrait Styling Ideas

What To Wear For Your Fall Family Photos (7)

Big brother has the “hero outfit” in this example. Mom and dad are wearing colors found in his shirt, while little brother is in a color that coordinates well.

What To Wear For Your Fall Family Photos (8)

Big sister gets the hero outfit this time. Her printed button down is in the same color as Dad and little sis. While mom and brother are in coordinating colors. Mom’s printed scarf balances out big sister’s pattern.

What To Wear For Your Fall Family Photos (9)

These brothers show how matching outfits can totally work! Plus, the little peek of plaid adds the perfect pop of interest.

What To Wear For Your Fall Family Photos (10)

Mom’s pop of pink adds just the right amount of color. Pink and gray are a fantastic combination.

What To Wear For Your Fall Family Photos (11)

Warm sweaters, printed scarf, touch of plaid, and textured tights. Perfect for fall!

For more styling inspiration visit our fall family photo Pinterest board. To read more about why fall is a great time for family portraits read this blog post. Also check out these blog posts to see some photos from past fall family portrait mini sessions and full fall family photo sessions. Still in Summer mode? Click here for our summer styling guide.

Crabapple Photography is located in Andover, MA and services clients from north of Boston to southern New Hampshire including Winchester, Lynnfield, Concord, Acton and more. Photographer Kate McKenna has over ten years of experience photographing all ages from newborn to family portraits. Fall is her favorite time of year for family photos because of the beautiful fall foliage that New England is known for.

Contact Kate today for more information and to book your fall family portrait session.

What To Wear For Your Fall Family Photos (2024)

FAQs

What should a family wear to autumn photoshoot? ›

Consider the colours of the season

So, colour-wise – anything that complements these gorgeous autumn colours will work really well. That means warm neutrals, creams, tan, beige, orange, mustard yellows, and light and dark browns. Navy blues, greys and warm berry colours also look fantastic at this time of year.

What colors should I wear for fall pictures? ›

My favourite colours for fall are colors like crimson. Aubergine (eggplant), emerald, navies, yellows, and rusty oranges work as well! Especially when they're mixed with neutrals such as greys and creams. Pick up to two colours unless you're an expert, and mix with neutrals for a put together look.

What do you wear to a autumn photo shoot? ›

Navy blue and Grey can also be fantastic options. But when you are deciding what to wear to your Autumn Family Photoshoot, don't shy away from brighter colours like oranges, mustard yellows, berry shades, forrest greens and reds which also work brilliantly against most Autumn backdrops.

What color clothing looks best in photos? ›

Best Colors To Wear For Professional Photos
  • Black and dark color combinations work perfect for more formal, indoor photography sessions. ...
  • Do your best to avoid patterned colors in clothing, as this looks distracting and at times, overly casual.
22 Nov 2019

What do you wear to a fall portrait? ›

Think muted colors.

Avoid overly saturated and bold colors, as they distract in the photo. Look for MUTED versions of the same color. For example, if you have a bright hot pink shirt, try a muted dusty rose instead.

What do you wear to a forest photoshoot? ›

Outfit Colors For a Forest Setting or Places with Green Grass. For these type of locations, it's always best to choose colors that will match the color of the trees or the color of the leaves on the trees. Colors like green, black, brown, tan or white are great for photos. Basically, any dark colors would work.

What should I wear for family pictures in the summer? ›

Neutral colors are a great choice for summer family pictures outfits. Tan, cream, navy or brown all look perfect paired with greenery. Shades of blue also look at home when paired with greens. Especially when mixed with warm neutrals such as tan and brown.

What are the colors for fall 2022? ›

According to fashion's top designers, we're in for a very regal 2022. Just look at the color palette! Royal purple, jewel-tone teal, and burning red are all trending hues incorporated on the Fall/Winter 2022 runways, each with its glamorous style.

Can you wear black for family photos? ›

Should Black Be Worn for Family Photos? If you love wearing black, keep in-mind there is a time and place for it to be worn if you want your photos to shine for your next family photography session.. Black is a great go-to choice for your everyday wardrobe attire. It's bold, elegant, clean and professional!

Should you wear stripes in pictures? ›

Patterns You Should NOT Wear

Small, close together stripes: This just tends to look trippy in photos, and sometimes gives this weird effect called moiré that you don't want. Trust me. Stripes are especially bad when combined with the above problem pattern (dark against light).

How do you coordinate clothes? ›

Fashion Tips : How to Coordinate an Outfit - YouTube

How do you stand in a dress for a picture? ›

How To Pose For Pictures - YouTube

How do you look good before a photoshoot? ›

Night before photoshoot:
  1. Take off any makeup with a fragrance free makeup wipe.
  2. Wash face with a gentle cleanser.
  3. Massage face with gentle exfoliator and rinse.
  4. Work lip scrub onto your lips or massage lips with tooth brush.
  5. Rinse face with warm water (not hot or cold!) ...
  6. Apply Vitamin C or your favorite serum (optional)
4 May 2020

What do you wear to a mini session in the fall? ›

Flowy Maxi dress (can be a pattern just remember ONE pattern per family looks best) cute top/sweater with black, colored, or dark blue jeans. Possibly a scarf and/or earrings.

How many outfits do I need for a photoshoot? ›

Number of Outfits

For a full day session (4 – 8 hours), I usually suggest my client have 3 – 5 complete outfits for their session. You will want to create a variety of looks with these outfits so that you have a lot of variety in your photos.

What should you not wear for beach pictures? ›

Avoid wearing patterns and logos. Even a single strip or small emblem can be distracting as this will draw the eye to the pattern not the photo as a whole. Avoid over-accessorizing or even wear no accessories at all.

What do you wear to a sunflower photoshoot? ›

Wear Complementary Colours

Because yellow is bright and vibrant, you do not want people to wear colours that clash with it. You want to accent the light feeling that yellow gives off. Colours like white, blue, brown and orange are ideal for a sunflower background.

What styles are trending for fall 2022? ›

9 Top Style Updates for Fall
  • Wider, looser jeans.
  • Loafers with attitude.
  • A wear-with-boots dress.
  • A leather or suede skirt.
  • A blue sweater.
  • A chic shirt-jacket.
  • A leggings replacement.
  • Real pants.
8 Sept 2022

What is the fashion trend for 2022? ›

TOP-TO-TOE COLOR. Forget tan, neutrals, or classic creams, the fashion color trends 2022, are all about going bold and bright. Models walking for Christian Dior and Versace were seen in top-to-toe brights that really make a statement.

What is the trendy color for 2022? ›

Pantone revealed in December that Very Peri, a blue-purple hue, is its color of 2022. The shade is described as a “warm and friendly blue hue with a carefree confidence and joyful attitude.” Very Peri is just one shade of blue Pantone predicts will be big in 2022.

What should you not wear in pictures? ›

DON'T WEAR NEON OR BRIGHT COLORS! Those colors can cast onto the skin. I'm not saying that I don't love a little pop of color, because I certainly do. However, muted colors and earth tones look better on camera and are more flattering for skin tones.

What colors show up best in black and white photos? ›

Earth tones show up nicely in black and white family photos.
...
If you choose darker colors, the following options will work well:
  • Royal blue.
  • Burgundy.
  • Hunter green.
2 Apr 2021

What clothes look best in black and white photos? ›

Don't wear too much color: when you're taking black and white photos, it's best to dress in monochromatic colors. Wear dark hues like navy blue, charcoal gray, or black. Or try lighter colors like light gray or cream. These shades will look great on camera and create a clean backdrop for your photos.

What kind of clothes photograph well? ›

7 Types of Clothes That Photograph Best
  • Solids colors. "It's no secret that zany patterns can be, ahem, less than flattering to even the most svelte figures. ...
  • Traditional patterns. ...
  • Fitted pieces. ...
  • Dark colors. ...
  • Flattering necklines. ...
  • Classic over trendy. ...
  • Non-sheer.
14 Mar 2017

Can you wear white for a photo shoot? ›

When it comes to the worst color to wear in photos, Eiseman told us, "Solid colors are always best, as opposed to patterns. Very pale pastels and whites can make the subject looked washed-out.

Should I wear white in photos? ›

White is a color that looks good on many people, regardless of complexion. It is clean and simple, leaving the photograph uncomplicated. White also contrasts well with many different background colors, leaving your photographer with many artistic options for the photograph.

How should I wear my hair for a professional headshot? ›

Hair up – If possible, tying your hair will slim down your face and your neck. This also opens your face more for your headshot to stand out. Curling Hair – Some curling is good but don't go too crazy with the curls. Again, you want to make sure the headshot looks like you.

Why do photographers wear black? ›

So, why do they wear black? It turns out, dressing in an all-black ensemble is a general rule of thumb in the photography world so photographers are as invisible as possible at a photo shoot. This way, they don't take any attention away from what the main subject of the photo is or from their ability to work.

How do you smile for a headshot? ›

Even for professional headshots, smiling both with and without your teeth work, so smile whichever way you feel most comfortable. A forced smile isn't good and might even make you seem disingenuous. You should be able to recognize a 'real' smile through a person's eyes.

What Colour looks best on camera? ›

Avoid bright white: White tends to dominate the screen, and like neon and bright colors, should be avoided. A better choice: not-quite-white colors like light beige, light gray and very pale colors may work better. 5. Avoid wearing bright red (or orange): Red tends to look orange to the camera.

Should you wear more makeup for photos? ›

The number one thing you need to remember about makeup for photoshoots is that the camera never captures makeup and color in quite as much vibrancy as is visible in real life. Therefore, it is very important that you apply more makeup for photoshoots than you would for going out and looking nice in real life.

Is it OK to wear stripes in family photos? ›

Avoid harsh patterns and stripes. Muted versions are okay, but don't complicate the photo with block patterns, vertical solid stripes or anything too trendy. Please retire the look where everyone in the family wears a white or black shirt paired with khakis and denim.

What is a color that matches with everything? ›

They are called neutrals. Neutral colors like white, gray, and black go with just about everything, because they are achromatic. In the world of fashion, navy, brown and khaki (and sometimes olive and light blue) are considered neutrals as well, because they also tend to blend with other colors well.

How can I stand to look thinner in pictures? ›

How to Look TALLER and SLIMMER in Photos, Easy Posing ... - YouTube

How do you look thinner in pictures sitting down? ›

Sit on the edge of your seat

If you're sitting down in a photo, angle your body again, and stick to the edge of the chair. Sitting back could hunch your posture. “It makes them look too mushy in the middle of their body because it all deflates in,” says Burr.

How do you prepare your hair for a photoshoot? ›

Hair Prep: Wash your hair the night before with shampoo and conditioner (If your hair is ultra-fine and oil-prone, wash on the morning of your headshot session. Apply conditioner from the mid-shaft of the hair to the ends (this helps with tangles).

How do I prepare my face for a photoshoot? ›

How to Prep your Skin for a Photoshoot
  1. Make sure you HYDRATE- drinking a lot of water is the best way to keep your skin healthy and glowing.
  2. Remove any makeup you may have on with a fragrance free makeup wipe.
  3. Wash your face with your cleanser of choice.
  4. Wash your face with your exfoliator of choice and rinse well.
24 Mar 2021

How do I glow for a photoshoot? ›

To prepare for your photo shoot, use a sheet mask the morning of your shoot. This will give your skin next level hydration and leave your skin luminous. Leave the sheet mask on for 10-15 minutes for optimal skin glow. This will revive your skin and prepare it for photo shoot makeup.

What do you wear to a outdoor photoshoot? ›

It's best to avoid neon colors in all attire. Think layers and textures – Layers and textures add visual interest to images. Layers can be added by adding a sweater, scarves, vest, suspenders, etc. Textures can be added by choosing an outfit with textures, jewelry, lace, flowers to the hair, belts, fun tights etc.

What colors go with a white background? ›

If you are shooting on a white or light background, think contrast. Stay away from white or light colors. Consider jewel tones like emerald or sapphire blue. Purple, green, red or orange can work well too.

Does velvet photograph well? ›

Go for solid colours instead. Velvet, velour and suede have the opposite effect— these fabrics absorb light, and end up looking muddy on camera.

How much do you tip a photographer for a mini session? ›

For family portrait photographers, you are not expected to tip if they are working for a studio or in a department store. However, if you hire an independent photographer for your family photos, it is customary to offer a small tip. Somewhere around five to 10% of your bill is perfect.

How do I prepare for the fall mini session? ›

Make sure they are clean, scuff-free and comfortable. Avoid flip flops and gym/running shoes. Dress kids in clothes they are comfortable in and you don't mind if they get a little dirty. There is a lot of running, playing, sitting, etc.

What do you wear to a forest photoshoot? ›

Outfit Colors For a Forest Setting or Places with Green Grass. For these type of locations, it's always best to choose colors that will match the color of the trees or the color of the leaves on the trees. Colors like green, black, brown, tan or white are great for photos. Basically, any dark colors would work.

What Colours do you wear in autumn? ›

The True Autumn palette contains warm greens, golden yellows, orangey reds and lots of golden browns. The colours are dense, rich and warm. Autumn is a season of muted colours. However, the True Autumn colour palette overall appears rich and vibrant.

What are the best colors to wear for outdoor family pictures? ›

As a general rule, any “natural” color that fits in with the earth is usually a safe bet for photoshoots. Sage green, various shades of brown and muted shades of yellow and orange are all earthy tones that photograph well.

What are the best colors for family pictures? ›

Navy, cream and tan is a classic color scheme for family photos that works well for any season. The navy and cream pair beautifully with the pastel florals and bright greens of spring.

Can I wear green in the fall? ›

More yellow than blue results in a warmer green. If you are a Summer or Winter, you will want to stick with the cooler greens. Springs and Autumns will look best in warmer greens. Most seasonal palettes have a range of greens, from pale to deep.

Can an autumn wear black? ›

Any season can wear black, but some may find it is overwhelming. As a warm autumn black is best kept to pieces worn on the lower half of the body. Black isn't your BEST color, however, as you'll find mocha, cognac and olive are more flattering.

Is GREY a fall color? ›

Grey: Grey is a great soft neutral perfect for cooler weather. From slouchy grey sweaters to grey skinny jeans, grey adds a mature hue to any fall wardrobe. Red and Burgundy: From Thanksgiving dinner to fall trips to the apple orchard……. shades of red and burgundy are the perfect festive fall colors.

Can an autumn wear gray? ›

All Autumns should avoid black, pink, navy, gray, blue-reds and all colors with blue undertones.

What color represents family? ›

Family relationships are often represented by the colors brown, green, white, and blue. What is this? Brown is the color of family because it represents stability, while green is associated with family because it is a nurturing color. White and blue, on the other hand, represent family loyalty.

How do you look good before a photoshoot? ›

Night before photoshoot:
  1. Take off any makeup with a fragrance free makeup wipe.
  2. Wash face with a gentle cleanser.
  3. Massage face with gentle exfoliator and rinse.
  4. Work lip scrub onto your lips or massage lips with tooth brush.
  5. Rinse face with warm water (not hot or cold!) ...
  6. Apply Vitamin C or your favorite serum (optional)
4 May 2020

What is the best color to take pictures in? ›

Capturing colors such as yellow and red are recommended as they are both powerful and alluring colors. Whenever you are taking photos, keep an eye out for neutral colored scenes that have a pop of color in them that you could capture in your composition.

What is the best color to wear for a portrait? ›

When deciding the best colors to wear for professional photos, it's better to play it safe rather than sorry. A professional headshot is not the time to experiment with bold colors or patterns. Using subdued colors, like a simple black, ivory, or neutral color will allow you to look sleek and professional.

What's the best color to wear in October? ›

  • Dark Red, 2. Orange, 3. Yellow and 4. ...
  • Shades of blue. Perfect transition to colder weather while matching your favorite pair of jeans! ...
  • Shades of Purple, 7. Rose red. ...
  • Camel and Shades of Brown. Classic fall shades! ...
  • Olive green. Combined with rose red and camel to rock fall!
5 Mar 2021

Can you wear turquoise jewelry in the fall? ›

We believe that the turquoise color refreshes every outfit, especially in the darker and moodier seasons of winter and fall.

What Colours are in for 2022 clothes? ›

They've just released the palette for autumn/winter 2022 fashion and it's all about a world emerging from pandemic lockdowns and embracing the vibrancy of life.
...
5 colours that will be on trend for autumn/winter 2022
  • Lilac. ...
  • Emerald. ...
  • Crimson. ...
  • Cobalt blue. ...
  • Burgundy.
8 Apr 2022

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