Make the Most of Autumn: Essential Tips for Fall Family Photos

There’s something magical about fall—the crisp air, vibrant leaves, and cozy layers make it the perfect season to capture family memories. Fall family photoshoots are not only a fun way to embrace the season but also a beautiful way to document your family's growth over the years. Whether you’re planning a professional session or snapping a few shots in your backyard, here are some tips to help you make the most of your fall family photos.

Planning Your Fall Photoshoot

Choosing a Location
Fall is so beautiful! Generally, it is easy to find picturesque spots for your photoshoot. Parks, wooded trails, apple orchards, or even pumpkin patches can offer stunning backdrops. Look for places with lots of trees where the leaves have started to change colors. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could even plan a family hike and capture moments along the way.

Timing is Everything
When it comes to lighting, timing can make or break your photos. The golden hour—shortly after sunrise or just before sunset—provides soft, flattering light that enhances the warm tones of autumn. Aim to schedule your shoot early in the season before the leaves start to fall. This ensures you’ll get those vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows in the background.

Coordinating Outfits
One of the most common challenges families face is figuring out what to wear. For fall photos, stick to earthy or jewel tones. These colors complement the season’s natural palette without clashing. Consider adding scarves, hats, or jackets that offer a pop of color or texture to the photos. Avoid too many bold patterns—simple and classic tends to photograph best. If you’re unsure, try laying out everyone’s outfits together before the shoot to see how they’ll look as a group.

Getting Everyone Comfortable

Prepping for the Photoshoot
Family photoshoots can be stressful, especially when little ones are involved. Keep the mood light and fun! Play music, bring snacks, and take breaks if needed. Sometimes, the most candid and beautiful shots happen when everyone is relaxed and enjoying themselves.

Candid vs. Posed
While traditional posed photos have their charm, don’t be afraid to capture those in-between moments. Encourage your kids to play in the leaves, have a family group hug, or even have a mini tickle fight. These candid shots often show the real essence of your family—full of joy and connection.

Photo Ideas and Inspiration

Beyond the traditional family portrait, consider incorporating fun, seasonal elements into your session. Capture your kids tossing leaves into the air, snuggling under a blanket, or holding pumpkins. Close-up shots can also be powerful—tiny hands holding acorns, or the texture of knitted scarves and sweaters add extra depth to your collection.

How to Preserve Your Fall Photos

After your photoshoot, you’ll likely be left with a collection of images you’ll want to keep safe forever. But digital files can be tricky to manage and easy to lose. This is why it’s so important to not only organize your photos but also to back them up. Consider investing in a FOREVER® storage account to keep your memories preserved and easy to share. Additionally, don’t forget to digitize any physical prints to ensure all your fall photos are safe in one secure place.

Creative Ways to Display Your Photos

Now that you have beautiful photos, it’s time to showcase them! Fall family photos look great framed or printed on a canvas or metal print and displayed on a mantle or as part of a seasonal gallery wall. You could also create a family photo book, chronicling each fall season, year by year. And as the holidays approach, these photos make wonderful gifts. Consider using them to create personalized calendars or holiday cards, adding a personal touch to your festive season.

Enjoy the Moments

While it’s easy to get caught up in trying to get the perfect shot, remember that the most important thing is to enjoy the experience. Laugh, play, and soak in the moments with your family. These are the memories you’ll want to look back on—and whether the photos turn out picture-perfect or a little messy, they’ll be a cherished part of your family’s story.

If you’re looking for more tips on how to organize and preserve your family photos, be sure to follow these Memory-Keeping Memos for more tips and information. Fall is such a fleeting season, but with a little planning, you can capture it beautifully and enjoy it for years to come. If you need help turning your photos into holiday gifts or creating a seasonal photo book, don’t hesitate to reach out!