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Besides being the most popular season for family sessions, Fall is my all around favorite season. The backdrop nature gives is absolutely stunning with a mix of changing leaves, crisp air, and soft golden rays. One of the biggest questions I get before a session is: “What should we wear?”
The right clothing not only helps you feel confident and comfortable but also makes your images timeless. What you wear also effects the way your photos will look once edited. Below are my tips and tricks for ensuring your family outfits are cohesive, make you feel confident and photograph beautifully.
Tip 1: Skip Matching Outfits
Matching outfits can be adorable, but a photoshoot isn’t the right place for them. When everyone wears the same outfit or color, you blend together and your photos lose depth. Instead, aim for coordinating outfits, not matching ones. The easiest way to do this is by mixing solids, subtle stripes, small prints and cozy textures. The variety makes your images feel dynamic without being overwhelming.
Tip 2: Choose the Right Color Palette
Not every color coordinates nicely with autumn’s changing leaves and golden light. Here are some tried-and-true palettes that always look stunning in fall settings:
- Olive & Wine: The perfect mix of earthy and rich, olive greens and deep wine reds look amazing together. The mix of a beautiful olive green dress, wine colored plaid button down and khaki bottoms create depth amongst your family’s outfits.
- Dusty Blue & Camel: A calm, classic pairing that pops against warm fall leaves. Think dusty blue sweaters, camel trousers, and cream accents.
- Ivory & Tan: A soft neutral combo that feels warm, natural and timeless. Ivory dresses, tan pants and layers of texture make this palette shine.
- Browns & Creams: A warm and cozy fall-inspired palette. Layering different shades of brown (chocolate, mocha, caramel, etc.) with cream accents creates depth and a timeless feeling. The perfect combo for those fall moments you want to live on your living room walls.
Tip 3: Colors to Avoid
- Navy Blue & Black: Both can appear flat when photographed. The shape of the clothing gets lost in editing, particularly in the shadows which is where all the magic happens. Try to minimize how many dark colored solid pieces are mixed in.
- Bright Whites: Have ever notice how some white clothing has blue undertones? These items can come in so many shades with some too cool for the setting. Additionally, white reflects light and bright whites can reflect too strongly in photos. Instead, choose ivory, cream or other soft off-whites.
Tip 4: Don’t Forget About Layers
Fall evenings cool down quickly especially the closer we get to sunset. Layers not only add warmth but also give depth and variety to your images. Keep everyone cozy, warm and stylish with layers:
- Open button-downs over sweaters for men or boys.
- Throw-on cardigans, wrap sweaters or even a small throw blanket for women.
- Knit caps for little boys (and they photograph adorably).
- Knit tights for little girls wearing dresses add warmth and texture.
Bonus Tip:
- Pick out one main outfit first (I usually suggest mom’s outfit) and build the rest of the family around it.
- Lay out all family outfits together beforehand to see how the colors and textures work together.
- Avoid logos and overly busy patterns which can be a distraction.
- Make sure everyone feels comfortable with what they’re wearing. If kids aren’t comfortable in what they’re wearing they usually won’t be happy during a session.
By mixing solids, prints and textures within a complementary color palette, your family photos will feel cohesive, timeless, and full of life. Want to learn more about family sessions this fall? Get in touch today.
Erica Ruvio Photography LLC is a Queens based family, maternity and newborn lifestyle photographer serving NYC, Long Island and Westchester New York. Fall Foliage sessions this year are being held in a variety of locations including Whitestone, Bayside, Oyster Bay, Roslyn, Deer Park, Manhasset, Floral Park and Oakland Gardens, New York.
Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. I only recommend products I personally love or think will add value to my clients and readers.
9/30/25
