What to Wear for Fall Family Photos: A Cozy Guide to Rich, Joyful Colors

There’s just something magical about fall—the golden leaves, the crisp air, the excuse to finally break out those cozy layers. 🍂 It’s also one of the most popular times for family photos, which means you might be staring at your closet (or your kids’ drawers) wondering, “What on earth do we wear so we don’t look like a Pinterest fail?”

Don’t worry—I’ve got you. Fall is all about leaning into those warm, rich tones and textures that feel timeless, cozy, and a little bit romantic.

Start with a Color Story

Think of your family’s outfits as one big, beautiful palette. You don’t all need to match perfectly (please, no identical white shirts and jeans!). Instead, aim to coordinate with colors that complement each other.

For fall, some of my favorite choices are:

• Burgundy – deep and rich, it photographs beautifully.

• Golden yellow – like a pop of sunshine among the leaves.

• Burnt orange – warm and classic autumn.

• Dark green – grounding and timeless.

• Brown leather shoes – a neutral base that ties it all together.

Pick two or three of these and mix them across the family. Maybe your little one wears a mustard sweater while you rock a burgundy dress and your partner pulls in dark green. The goal is cohesion without cloning.

Play with Layers and Textures

Layers aren’t just practical for the unpredictable fall weather—they also add depth and interest to your photos. Think cozy cardigans, denim or leather jackets, or ponchos. Accessories like scarves and hats are a win-win: they look stylish and give you something to play with during the session (hello, candid moments!).

Comfort is Key (Yes, Even for Kids)

You’ll look your best if you feel your best. Choose clothes you can move in—flowy dresses that twirl, boots you can walk in, sweaters you won’t be tugging at every two seconds. For kids, soft fabrics and simple layers are your best friend. If they’re comfortable, you’re more likely to get genuine smiles instead of “are we done yet?”

Keep Shoes Simple

Since many fall sessions take place outdoors—think crunchy leaves, grassy parks, or even muddy patches—sturdy shoes are a must. Brown leather boots, loafers, or even clean sneakers for the kids will look polished without the stress.

A Few Quick Tips to Wrap It Up

• Avoid super bright neons or busy logos—they’ll distract from your faces.

• Think about how your outfits will look against a backdrop of colorful leaves.

• Don’t forget yourself! Moms often plan everyone else’s outfits first, but start with something you love for you and build around it.

Your family photos aren’t about perfection—they’re about capturing the love, the chaos, and the season you’re in. When you lean into fall’s cozy colors and textures, your images will feel warm, timeless, and full of joy.

So grab that burgundy dress, toss a scarf on your little one, and let’s capture some leaf-crunching, memory-making magic together.

💛 Ready to book your fall session? Let’s make it happen.