It’s family photo season and everyone has the same question – what to wear for fall photos!? I always suggest putting together your family’s wardrobe based on a neutral color palette. Adding textures and layers will help everyone stay comfortable in cooler tempertures and will elevate your look. With the colorful, busy backgrounds we often find with fall foliage, I’d suggest avoiding dresses with large floral prints.

I also try to encourage you to consider how you will use these photographs. If you’d like to display them in your home all year, do you really want orange, yellow, and red to be the dominant colors – will that work within the aesthetics of your home? Often you can find beautiful, neutral backdrops in the fall that will create timeless photographs you can enjoy all year long.

One of my favorite parts of my job is getting to help you plan your wardrobe. I’m sharing some of my favorites here. I hope they provide inspiration for you as you prepare for your upcoming session!

I love the soft tones for this family. They coordinate so nicely with the warm sunset glow and blonde grasses.

A sweater dress is the perfect way to stay neutral while giving a nod to the season. And don’t overlook outerwear as a great way to add context.

You don’t have to wear light colors. This mother’s black dress worked so beautifully. Adding layers and accessories to baby’s outfit really makes it look put together. Even this family’s dogs got the colors right!

When surrounded by warm, saturated colors, a cool-toned dress like this one in silver can work perfectly.

Adding a layering piece to mom’s dress like this woolen shawl not only adds warmth, but really elevates a simple dress. A bit of color in dad’s pants add interest while keeping the entire scene soft and neutral.

If you really want to wear color, something like this simple golden dress paired with an oversized cardigan looks cozy, but not overwhelming.

For a session around the monuments, a saturated, jewel-toned dress is the perfect way to add a bit of seasonal, yet neutral color.

What to Wear for Fall Photos | Details

I would love to help you document your own family’s story. If you would like more information about a session with me, I’d love to invite you to send a little note my way here.

Did you know my studio wardrobe is available to all of my clients? I know how challenging it can be to find pieces that you love for an ever-changing body. My studio wardrobe is a well-curated collection of boutique and designer dresses for both new and expectant mothers. I also have beautiful options for children up to around age 2. You can read more about my studio wardrobe here and see a gallery of dresses available to you here.