Fall is the perfect season to capture family moments against a backdrop of rich autumn colors. But let’s be honest—getting everyone ready, comfortable, and photo-ready can be challenging. From fidgety kids to unpredictable weather, family photo sessions come with their own set of hurdles. To help you navigate these challenges and ensure you get the beautiful photos you envision, here are the top five tips for a successful fall family photo session.
1. Choose the Right Location
The location of your photo shoot can make a significant difference in your photos. Pick a spot that highlights the beauty of fall, such as a park with colorful leaves, a pumpkin patch, or your own backyard with some seasonal decorations. While selecting a location, consider factors like accessibility and comfort, especially if you have young kids. A pre-visit can help you get a feel for the area and plan for any potential challenges.
2. Timing is Everything
Timing your session correctly can alleviate some of the common photo shoot headaches. Golden hour—shortly after sunrise or before sunset—offers the best natural lighting, which can help reduce the number of retakes needed due to harsh shadows or overly bright spots. Scheduling your session during these times also minimizes the chance of dealing with mid-day heat or glare, making the experience more comfortable for everyone. If you have young kids with an early bedtime, sunrise may be a better option than sunset - sometimes kids can be their most difficult right before bed. If you have teens who don’t like to wake up early, sunset may be a better option.
3. Coordinate Outfits, Don’t Match
Family photos can be a battle of wills when it comes to choosing outfits. To simplify this process, focus on coordinating rather than matching. Opt for rich fall colors like deep reds, oranges, and browns, and incorporate layers and textures to add visual interest. Avoid overly matching outfits, as this can look forced and take away from the natural feel of your photos. Allow some flexibility in outfit choices to keep everyone happy and comfortable. Northern Classics coats and hats could be a great way to coordinate and keep everyone warm!
4. Incorporate Seasonal Elements
Adding a few seasonal props and elements can enhance your photos and make them feel truly fall-inspired. Think pumpkins, colorful leaves, or a cozy blanket. These elements not only add charm but can also serve as distractions for younger kids, helping them to stay engaged during the shoot. Just be sure to use props sparingly so they complement rather than overwhelm your family’s natural beauty.
5. Keep It Fun and Relaxed
The most memorable photos often come from moments of genuine connection and happiness. To achieve this, aim to keep the photo session fun and relaxed. Encourage your family to interact naturally—play games, tell jokes, or simply enjoy each other’s company. A relaxed atmosphere will help everyone feel more comfortable and lead to more authentic, beautiful photos. Remember, it’s okay if things don’t go perfectly; the goal is to capture the essence of your family.
Pro tip: for NC shoots, we keep smarties on hand. They are a great motivator for kids and are small, neutral colored and don't make a mess!
Family photo sessions can be challenging, but with these top five tips, you’ll be better equipped to handle the hurdles and create stunning fall photos. By choosing the right location, timing your shoot, coordinating outfits, incorporating seasonal elements, and keeping the experience light-hearted, you’ll capture beautiful memories that you’ll cherish for years to come. Embrace the season, enjoy the process, and most importantly, have fun with your family! 🍂📸