What to Wear for Fall Family Photos

1. Start with a Color Palette

Fall is the perfect season to embrace warm, earthy colors that complement the beauty of the changing landscape. Consider incorporating rust, burnt orange, mustard yellow, olive green, forest green, cream, beige, camel, brown, burgundy, deep plum, navy blue, and dusty blue into your family's wardrobe. Mixing these colors throughout everyone's outfits creates a coordinated, timeless look that photographs beautifully while allowing each family member's personality to shine. Rather than matching exactly, choose complementary shades that work together to create a natural, cohesive style that blends effortlessly with the warm tones of autumn.

2. Coordinate—Don't Match

The goal is for your family to look connected, not identical.

Instead of everyone wearing white shirts and jeans, mix complementary colors and different textures.

For example:

• Mom in a cream sweater and rust-colored skirt

• Dad in a navy sweater with khaki pants

• Daughter in a floral dress with warm autumn colors

• Son in an olive shirt with dark jeans

Everyone feels unique while still looking beautifully coordinated.

3. Add Texture

Fall is the perfect season to incorporate rich textures that add warmth and depth to your photographs. Consider wearing • Knit sweaters • Chunky cardigans • Flannel shirts • Corduroy • Wool • Denim • Linen • Suede boots • Scarves • Felt hats. Mixing these fabrics and accessories creates visual interest, gives your portraits a cozy autumn feel, and helps add variety without overwhelming the overall look.

4. Dress for the Weather

Fall weather can be unpredictable, especially during early mornings and evenings, so it's a good idea to dress in layers and come prepared for cooler temperatures. Consider bringing sweaters, shawls, jackets, cozy blankets for younger children, warm socks, and comfortable boots to your session. Not only will these items help keep everyone warm and comfortable, but they also add beautiful texture and seasonal charm to your portraits. Staying comfortable allows your family to relax, have fun, and enjoy the experience, resulting in more natural and genuine photographs.

5. Choose Comfortable Clothing

If your children are uncomfortable, it often shows in the photographs.

Choose clothing they can move, play, and cuddle in naturally.

The more comfortable everyone feels, the more genuine your smiles and interactions will be.

6. Keep Patterns Simple

When choosing clothing for your family photo session, it's best to keep patterns simple and timeless. Small florals, plaid, soft stripes, and subtle prints can add personality and visual interest without taking attention away from the people in the photograph. At the same time, try to avoid large logos, bright neon colors, busy graphics, cartoon characters, and distracting text, as these elements can draw the eye away from your family's expressions and create a dated look. Choosing classic, understated patterns helps create beautiful portraits that will remain timeless for years to come.

7. Don't Forget Shoes

Shoes matter more than most people realize when planning outfits for family photos, and the right pair can help complete the entire look. Great options for fall include brown leather boots, Chelsea boots, riding boots, neutral sneakers, dress shoes, and loafers. Choose footwear that coordinates with your family's color palette while also being comfortable enough for walking and moving around during your session. Try to avoid brightly colored athletic shoes that may draw attention away from your family, unless they're an intentional part of your personal style.

8. Accessories Complete the Look

Accessories are a wonderful way to add personality and complete your family's look without overwhelming your photographs. Consider incorporating scarves, felt hats, simple jewelry, hair bows, suspenders, cozy blankets, or seasonal flowers to enhance your outfits and add a touch of seasonal charm. The key is to keep accessories simple and intentional, so they complement your clothing rather than compete for attention. Thoughtfully chosen accessories can add warmth, texture, and character while helping create beautiful, timeless family portraits.

10. Plan Ahead

Try outfits on a week before your session.

Lay everyone's clothing out together to make sure the colors complement one another.

Steam or iron clothing the day before, and avoid trying new hairstyles or haircuts right before your session.

Preparation makes the entire experience more enjoyable.

11. My Favorite Fall Color Palette

If you're looking for inspiration, some of my favorite fall color combinations include cream, rust, olive, and brown; navy, mustard, beige, and forest green; burgundy, cream, camel, and denim; dusty blue, olive, cream, and brown; or sage green, ivory, tan, and rust. These timeless color palettes complement one another beautifully and photograph exceptionally well against the stunning fall scenery throughout Mendocino County and the Northern California coast. They create a warm, natural, and cohesive look that allows your family's personalities to be the true focus of every portrait.